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 being the oldest of a 6-child family. 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’m 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 I can achieve great things.