WORK EXPERIENCE
Ian Laws
Sault Ste Marie ON P6B 2S7
idlaws@itechsupport.biz
(705) 206-5422
As you will see from my resume, my Information Technology background encompasses technical support, Client/Server installation and configuration, project management, system administration, policy and procedure development, and network planning, management and implementation. I have a post secondary degree in Commerce and Information Systems, am CompTIA Network+ and A+ certified, and have over 20 years experience in Information Technology.
Prior to my IT career I worked in the energy, heavy equipment and transportation sectors of Alberta and the Northwest Territories. During that time I earned my Heavy Duty Mechanic Journeyman’s Ticket with Red Seal and Class A driver’s license.
My IT career began as an independent contractor providing computer technical support to all levels of users in all manner of businesses. Services included computer sales, on-site, telephone and remote desktop and network infrastructure support, software training and IT asset management.
In my current position as Senior Technical Specialist with the Group Health Centre in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, I provide advanced technical and operational support for the Information and Communication Technology infrastructure. I work with the Senior IT Manager and ICT Team to identify, recommend, develop and implement cost effective technology solutions. I direct and mentor technical support staff, deliver 1st and 2nd Tier Help Desk support, manage project teams and conduct staff training.
Prior to my current position, I was the Information Systems Coordinator and senior technician with the Northwest Territories Liquor Commission. I supported and maintained their SCO UNIX WAN integrated inventory, accounting and retail database system in a distributed environment. I was the technical lead on the selection and implementation of its replacement with a Microsoft Server 2003/XP Pro WAN system in 6 regional locations. My IT duties encompassed daily end user tech support for hardware, network, applications, and determining required vendor programming changes.
I configured data protection, archives and recovery systems that included WAN backups, server and client imaging, hardware RAID, off site storage on Network Access Storage devices and tape.
I employed system wide alert reporting and monitoring tools using SNMP/SMTP for the IT infrastructure and applications. To assist end users and tech support staff, I implemented system wide remote access tools, Web Conferencing, VPN and a procedures and manuals Intranet.
As a member of the management team, my role involved significant administrative duties including: the review and drafting of policy and procedure documents to address operational and legislative changes; developing IT disaster recovery plans; end user training; and monitoring the IT life cycle. I also prepared and managed an annual budget for IT operations; determined technical specifications for new projects; drafted and analyzed tenders and RFP’s; and administered system security requirements.
I provided advice and direction with respect to IT initiatives to senior management, remote location managers, and end users. I managed the day to day operations of IT systems by working closely with end users on application errors, custom report creation, data mining, system enhancement projects, database maintenance, hardware and software upgrades, and supervising technical staff and support contractors.
I have completed numerous significant IT projects including new Microsoft and UNIX server installs, Point of Sale setup, wiring cabinet and computer room construction, 100’s of network PC installs, building network cabling, and office renovations. My financial experience includes regular financial statement analysis with previous employer, 2 years of financial and accounting studies in university and as an owner of a computer company.
Prior to the above position I supported a Novell 3.12/Windows for Workgroups LAN in a school board Head Office before upgrading it to a Microsoft Server NT 4.0/Windows 95 LAN. I later upgraded the network to a Microsoft Server 2000/Windows 98 LAN with Microsoft ISA and IIS Servers. Working closely with the superintendent, principals and teachers on their Career and Technology Strategy for schools I designed the network infrastructure and computer labs for each school, oversaw construction, installed all workstations and Microsoft NT 4.0 Servers, and configured software applications for students. I continued to provide ongoing tech support and training end users.
I believe in going onsite with the end user to see their workplace and establish a rapport with them. By “walking in their shoes” I can experience first hand how technology is a benefit or a barrier to their needs. I have excellent writing skills, my plans are comprehensive, and my reports are detailed.
I have honed my problem solving skills over the past 20 years by increasing my technical knowledge, actively working with the end user, conferring with my peers, and researching with online tools. I am a lifelong learner and constantly strive towards professional development.
I have delivered computer training to a wide range of end users including engineers, teachers, and business managers. Courses included Microsoft Office Professional, Microsoft Server NT 4.0 and 2003, Microsoft Project, MS-DOS, FirstClass Administration, and network connectivity.
I successfully completed the Leadership Certificate Program from Vancouver Community College, I am CompTIA Network+, and A+ certified and have completed ITIL v3 Foundation qualification, Microsoft Server 2000/2003, SCO UNIX System Administration, and Crystal Reports courses. I am currently studying for my Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam. To keep up to date with technology, I have deployed a Microsoft Server 2008/Windows 7/XP network in my home which I am continuously re-configuring.
My knowledge and experience, paired with my excellent work ethic would make me an ideal candidate for any IT position in your organization. I am a detail person, enjoy project oriented work, and am time aware and punctual. I am looking for a progressive and diversified IT environment in which to work. I bring with me a broad knowledge of IT, a demonstrated ability to manage and support IT and a desire to continue expanding my IT experience. I certainly look forward to discussing my experience and abilities in greater detail.