Forward Thinking Woodruff

My fascination with computers began in my childhood, playing games like Ultima and Ghostbusters on a Commodore 64 or Buck Rogers on a Coleco Adam. I also loved to draw, and this early interest led me to explore the world of drafting in high school, where I excelled in mechanical and architectural drafting. I was even selected for a state competition in architectural hand drafting during my Senior year!  

Despite my passion for architecture, college seemed out of reach financially. The Navy offered a promising solution though with its college tuition assistance program, and with this I enlisted, even though I was afraid of the water and not a very promising swimmer.  

I served as a Navy Seabee, the Navy’s elite construction force, which provided me with hands-on experience in the construction industry. During my time in the Navy, I discovered a knack for IT. I learned about desktops, servers, and networks, holding the fort down in Adak, Alaska for a month alone after just 2 months beginning my adventure with IT and eventually managing a 100-user network in Spain.  

After leaving the Navy, I started my IT career at a civil engineering firm, where I managed a mixed Novell/Microsoft server network and even implemented a RedHat Linux Proxy server and writing a SOP on how to run and manage the network before I left and later learning over 10 years later that same SOP document was being used by all the many IT personnel that had replaced me.  

I honed my skills at various companies, including GT Computers, Traficon USA, and R-Tech Consulting. I embraced new technologies, like VMware server virtualization, and excelled at troubleshooting and problem-solving.  

At JMC Business Systems, I spearheaded a major office relocation, ensuring seamless connectivity and preventing any data loss during the transition.  

Despite the setbacks I faced, like the closure of JMC Business Systems, I persevered and started my own consulting company, Forward Thinking Guys. I later joined GEICO Insurance, where I learned to navigate a complex corporate environment and honed my interpersonal skills.  

A difficult divorce led me to take a career break to prioritize my family and personal well-being. During this time, I focused on strengthening family bonds and fostering open communication.  

I re-entered the workforce with renewed determination, taking on roles at Digicon Corporation and Prime Technical Services. I adapted to the challenges of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic and continued to provide exceptional technical support.  

My passion for technology led me to the EV industry, where I worked with Electrify America as a NOC Technician and later as a NOC Training Lead. I developed and delivered training programs, collaborated with internal and external parties, and provided exceptional customer support.  

My career journey has been a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of lifelong learning. I’ve always been eager to learn and grow, and I’m confident that my skills and experience will be a valuable asset to any team.  

I am passionate about technology and committed to staying current with the latest trends. I believe in teamwork, a strong work ethic, and a passion for excellence.  

Challenges have been a part of my journey, but they’ve only made me stronger and more resilient. I’m excited about the future and confident that great things will be achieved. Thank you, and visit Forward Thinking Woodruff and see what I can assist you with today.