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Work Background
River Valley CooperativeDirector of Information Technology
Nov. 2020Davenport, Iowa, United StatesAs Director of Information Technology at River Valley Cooperative, I lead the organization’s technology strategy and operations, aligning IT initiatives with business objectives to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and ensure seamless collaboration. My role includes overseeing a multi-disciplinary IT team, managing critical infrastructure projects, and implementing forward-thinking solutions to support the company’s growth and resilience. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACHIEVEMENTS Strategic IT Leadership • Designed and executed a comprehensive 5-year IT roadmap, driving a 20% improvement in operational efficiency by optimizing processes and technology platforms. • Partnered with executive leadership to identify and deploy innovative solutions that improved cross-departmental communication and organizational alignment. Infrastructure Optimization • Led infrastructure modernization initiatives, reducing system downtime by 30% through targeted upgrades and proactive maintenance strategies. Cybersecurity and Compliance • Spearheaded a company-wide cybersecurity initiative, achieving full compliance with industry standards and significantly reducing risk exposure. Team Development • Directed a high-performing IT team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning to address evolving business needs effectively. In my current role, I focus on leveraging technology as a strategic enabler for operational excellence and long-term success, ensuring that River Valley Cooperative remains competitive in an increasingly digital landscape.
Ag View FSIT Manager
Jun. 2004 - Oct. 2020Princeton, Illinois, United StatesAs IT Manager at Ag View FS, I oversaw technology operations and provided end-to-end support for 125 PC and mobile users across the organization. My role encompassed configuring and maintaining desktops, laptops, business applications, email systems, telecommunication platforms, & video conferencing solutions. I was the go-to resource for ensuring technology streamlined communication and boosted internal and external productivity. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACHIEVEMENTS Technology Leadership • Led technology-driven initiatives, identifying and implementing solutions to enhance operational efficiency. • Supervised third-party vendors during the installation of a new company-wide phone system. • Reduced printing costs by 15% through a strategic evaluation & implementation of cost-saving measures. Network Management and Security • Monitored network traffic for anomalies, ensuring a secure and optimized IT infrastructure. • Analyzed workloads to anticipate & resolve potential bottlenecks. Application Development & Support • Played a key role in developing and deploying several web-enabled business applications, enhancing business processes. • Supported FS Grain during its transition from Northern Grain Marketing, providing critical IT support for 27 additional users across six new locations. Technical Expertise • Mastered and supported multiple operating systems, including Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10, and introduced the Windows 11 upgrade process to the company before taking a new role at a different organization. • Excelled in deploying and maintaining productivity suites like Microsoft Office, Google Docs, and open-source platforms like LibreOffice. Throughout my tenure, I focused on identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, foster collaboration, and future-proof the company’s IT infrastructure. My commitment to proactive problem-solving and leadership in technological transformation set a foundation for the company’s sustained growth & adaptability.
OAO Technologies SolutionsCustomer Support Analyst
Jan. 2001 - May. 2004Oak Brook, Illinois, United StatesAs a Technical Support Specialist at OAO Technologies, I delivered second-tier technical support, collaborating closely with technical teams to execute various IT operations, including planned maintenance, troubleshooting, installations, upgrades, and system relocations. My role required a hands-on approach to resolving complex technical challenges and providing seamless support for internal and external stakeholders. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACHIEVEMENTS Advanced Technical Support • Served as a trusted resource for escalated technical issues, ensuring swift resolution of complex problems. • Assisted customers with installing and configuring desktop systems, hardware, software, and end-user devices, guaranteeing optimal performance and satisfaction. System Maintenance and Upgrades • Supported critical maintenance activities, including system troubleshooting and upgrades, to maintain high availability and reliability. • Executed hardware moves and installations precisely, minimizing downtime for end users. Technical Expertise • Developed intermediate-to-advanced proficiency with operating systems, including Windows 98, 2000, and NT. • Leveraged strong working knowledge of MS SQL and Oracle databases to support database-related operations and resolve issues effectively. At OAO Technologies, I focused my ability to balance technical expertise with customer service, ensuring that systems functioned seamlessly and end users felt empowered through reliable technology solutions. This role strengthened my foundation in IT support and prepared me for greater leadership responsibilities in technology management.
Computer Age/Pearl TechnologyNetwork Administrator
Jan. 2000 - Jan. 2001Pekin, Illinois, United StatesAs the City of Pekin's network administrator, I played a pivotal role in managing and maintaining the city’s IT infrastructure. My responsibilities span a broad range of technical and strategic duties, and I ensured that employees and administration had the tools and support needed to operate efficiently. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACHIEVEMENTS Deskside Support • Provided hands-on IT support to city employees and administrators, resolving technical issues promptly to minimize downtime and maintain productivity. Network Maintenance • Monitored and maintained the city’s network infrastructure, ensuring reliable connectivity and optimal performance across all departments. • Conducted regular network updates, diagnostics, and troubleshooting to prevent and address potential issues. Server Administration • Managed and supported server operations, including backups, updates, and system integrity. • Implemented best practices to enhance system security and data accessibility. Website Development • Contributed to the city’s digital presence by assisting in website development efforts and improving access to information for employees and the public. In this role, I combined technical expertise with a customer-focused approach, ensuring seamless IT operations for the City of Pekin. My work directly supported municipal services, showcasing my ability to manage complex systems and provide exceptional support in a dynamic public sector environment.
Computer Age/Pearl TechnologyDeskside Support Technician
Mar. 1999 - Jan. 2000Moline, Illinois, United StatesAs a Deskside Support Technician contracted to John Deere, I provided on-site technical support to two key locations, including one focused on the innovative GreenStar project. My role involved delivering responsive, hands-on IT assistance to employees, ensuring smooth operations, and resolving technical issues efficiently. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACHIEVEMENTS Technical Support for GreenStar Project • Provided dedicated deskside support to the team working on the GreenStar initiative, contributing to developing this cutting-edge agricultural technology. • Assisted with troubleshooting and resolving hardware and software issues to maintain productivity in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment. Comprehensive IT Support • Delivered deskside support at a second Moline location, addressing technical concerns ranging from system troubleshooting to peripheral setup. • Ensured timely resolution of issues, enabling seamless workflow and minimizing employee disruption across both sites. Stakeholder Collaboration • Worked closely with John Deere employees, fostering positive relationships through clear communication, professionalism, and dependable support. Adaptability and Proactive Problem-SolvingSkills • Adapted quickly to the unique needs of each location, prioritizing tasks effectively to support high-performance teams. This role allowed me to refine my technical expertise while gaining valuable experience supporting high-profile projects and working within a global organization like John Deere. My contributions helped ensure the reliability and effectiveness of IT resources critical to the success of both teams.
Computer Age/Pearl TechnologyField Service Technician
Dec. 1998 - Mar. 1999East Peoria, Illinois, United StatesIn my first civilian role after serving over seven years in the United States Marine Corps, I stepped into IT as an IT Service Technician at Computer Age, Inc. This role provided me with hands-on experience in addressing and resolving technical issues across various company locations, primarily focusing on printer repair and hardware maintenance. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACHIEVEMENTS Technical Service Delivery • Responded promptly to service requests at multiple company locations, ensuring minimal downtime and efficient resolution of printer and hardware-related issues. • Conducted on-site diagnostics and repairs, reinforcing my technical foundation in IT hardware support. Customer Interaction and Support • Interfaced directly with employees and stakeholders, honing interpersonal and communication skills critical for successful IT support. • Delivered exceptional service with a focus on professionalism, setting the stage for future success in IT roles. Career Foundation • Used this position as a launching pad to enter the IT industry, building on my leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills cultivated in the Marine Corps. This role was instrumental in bridging my military background with my new career in technology, providing invaluable experience in technical service and client interaction that would define my professional trajectory in IT.
United States Marine CorpsPlatoon Sergeant
Aug. 1991 - Nov. 1998Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, United StatesServed over seven years in the U.S. Marine Corps, achieving the rank of Sergeant and excelling in leadership and technical roles across global and domestic assignments. Gained extensive experience in high-pressure environments while supporting critical missions. KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Radio Operator (MOS 2531): Ensured secure, reliable communications during combat and training operations. • Remote Sensor Operator (MOS 8621): Operated sensor systems for intelligence and reconnaissance, enhancing mission planning. • Aviation Operations Specialist (MOS 7041): Coordinated aviation missions, including scheduling, logistics, and planning. CAMPAIGNS AND OPERATIONS Deployed to Somalia to support Operation Restore Hope, a mission focused on providing humanitarian aid and restoring order during severe famine and unrest. • Maintained secure communications critical to coordinating military and humanitarian operations. • Facilitated logistical support for food and medical aid distribution. • Supported security efforts to protect aid workers and stabilize conflict zones. This deployment strengthened my ability to perform under challenging conditions and reinforced my commitment to mission-driven service. AWARDS AND RECOGNITION: • Good Conduct Medal (2x) • National Defense Service Medal • Sea Service Deployment Ribbon • Combat Action Ribbon • Joint Meritorious Unit Award • Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Rifle and Pistol Qualifications • Earned Sharpshooter Badges for rifle and pistol marksmanship. LEADERSHIP AND LEGACY Led and mentored junior Marines, fostering operational readiness and professionalism. Honored with an Honorable Discharge in 1998, leaving a legacy of discipline, technical expertise, and leadership that continues to shape my professional endeavors.
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