Serve in a highly visible role to provide desktop support to 300+ users by monitoring systems and resolving issues to ensure staff can access the network, Wi-Fi connections, applications, and files. Play a pivotal role in driving the transformation of legacy solutions to modernize the infrastructure’s capability and functionality. Engage with senior leaders to objectively analyze the organization’s ability to absorb changes and ensure maximum up-time during system tests, upgrades, installations, and other deployment-related activities. Remain current on new technologies to determine what emerging technologies should be assimilated, integrated, and introduced.Analyze system requirements to lead the team in resolving application issues by understanding the interdependencies across the entire infrastructure.Vet and negotiate with vendors to procure IT-related assets needed for optimal site performance by keeping costs within approved budget thresholds.Assume responsibility for escalated desktop activities and delegate tasks to junior-level team members to ensure proper protection or corrective measures occur.Evaluate new services and applications that provide solutions, improve connectivity, and decrease risks in security and exposure to viruses, malware, and ransomware.Monitor value metrics within the IT portfolio to produce informed decisions that maximize the return-on-investment (ROI) as a part of a strong emphasis on continuous improvement.Converted 310+ desktop and laptop systems to Windows 10 and rolled out VPN software training to end-users in support of a “work from home” model.Received company recognition for facilitating the “work from home” model and coordinating work efforts in just 4-days to ramp up remote operations.

Managed the configuration, maintenance, and administration of systems, servers, and desktop user support. Held full accountability for all IT-related activities, including client connectivity, network stability, remote access (VPN) configuration, security, file services, hardware/software procurement, and virtualization. Maintained user groups and accounts in Active Directory to ensure staff had access to their work accounts and files. Implemented a concise hardware inventory tracking policy, employee security policies, and incorporated an automated support desk ticketing system. Worked closely with vendors and contractors to develop relationships that included negotiating a hardware purchasing pipeline of $40K. Created and maintained an end-user database with assigned hardware distribution and implemented cycle replacement/upgrade plans.Troubleshot desktop and portable systems to complete on-site repairs, replace unserviceable parts, and converted HDDs to SSDs via image mirroring. Deployed and configured Juniper switches for port-specific VLANS and connectivity via fiber optic cabling.

Administer multiple Citrix servers by creating and maintaining user accounts and ensuring remote availability via VPN. Administered MS Exchange, maintaining end-user accounts, creating accounts, troubleshooting transport issues, implementing archiving schedules, and ensuring authentication abilities. Partnered with data vendors, including CenturyLink and Cox Business to maintain SMTP services. Implemented MS Active Directory structure and security and remote access administration to meet strict security standards. Installed, configured, and managed the administration of Cisco Meraki Wi-Fi switches and access points.

Maintained existing enterprise IT architecture and administered server operating systems running on physical and virtual hardware, including user access, email, remote access, and other related services. Held direct accountability for maintaining all servers, creating recovery plans, and installing, configuring, and maintaining various systems and hardware, including Exchange, Active Directory, file services, backup, and archiving services. Managed the conversion of MS Exchange to Office 365, converting 120+ end-users to the cloud solution. Directed the deployment of desktop operating systems and applications by implementing a process to convert 126 desktops from Windows XP to Windows 7 Professional, enabling users to access the latest technology. Implemented virtualization solutions via VMWare using ESXi Hypervisor 6.0 and MS Server. Oversaw the commissioning of 2 physical server environments, 6 virtual environments, and the decommissioning of 10 physical servers, leading to $12K cost savings. Assumed additional IT functions to support daily operations, resolve complex network connectivity issues, troubleshoot hardware/software, and introduce new technologies, earning the “Employee of the Month” 3 times.Converted analog phone systems to a VoIP solution, facilitated end-user support/training, presented an IT forecast during leadership meetings, and tracked software licensing.