Michael Gerst Email & Phone Number

Strong interpersonal and communication skillsI am an effective communicator electing to keep communications short while still conveying the information and knowledge required for the recipient to make an informed decision. I tailor my communications based upon the intended audience such that ideas are thoroughly understood.Looked to for recommendations on solutions for peculiar and complex problemsI am often sought out when it comes to problems that require thinking differently to reach an acceptable solution. Some of these problems seem trivial on the surface, however depending on the constraints we are working within can become extremely complex. One such situation was implementing an interface between internal batch systems and an external real-time system within the constraints of Sterling B2B Integrator.Passionate about implementing Open Source solutionsThroughout my career at SBC, now doing business as AT&T, I have passionately pursued the use of Open Source solutions whenever the implementation of said software does not impose a risk to the business. Early on I proposed the use of RedHat Linux as an operating system and MySQL as a RDBMS for an enterprise wide application. This proposal was met with fierce resistance, however eventually was adopted as MySQL provided capabilities that Oracle did not yet possess. MySQL is now a standard within SBC/AT&T.Ability to remain focused in a remote work environmentI have a dedicated work environment in my home isolated from distractions. This space allows me to stay focused while working remotely and helps me set boundaries regarding my working time and personal time.