My passion for information technology began at just 12 years old, sparked by a curiosity about how computers work and a drive to understand the systems behind the screen. What started as experimenting with hardware and customizing software quickly evolved into a deeper interest in networking, troubleshooting, and digital design. While other kids were exploring games, I was exploring settings menus, command lines, and system configurations—laying the foundation for a lifelong path in tech.

That early interest turned into purpose. I pursued formal education in the field, earning a degree that sharpened both technical and creative skills. From web design and digital branding to technical support and system management, I have sought out hands-on experience across the IT landscape. With each role, I continue to build a well-rounded skillset, driven by the same curiosity and passion that started it all years ago. Whether building digital tools or helping others navigate technology, I remain focused on growth, innovation, and the ever-evolving world of IT.

Education

My formal journey into the world of IT began at Texarkana College, where I pursued an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Technology Information Systems. Enrolled from August 2018 to December 2020, I concentrated primarily on software development, gaining a strong foundation in programming, system analysis, and database management. The program offered hands-on learning experiences that sharpened my problem-solving abilities and deepened his understanding of how software and hardware integrate to drive technology forward.

During this time, I also earned the CompTIA A+ certification—a widely respected credential that validates essential IT skills in areas like hardware, networking, security, and troubleshooting. This combination of academic study and industry certification equipped me with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, laying the groundwork for success in the IT field. My time at Texarkana College was not just about completing coursework—it was about igniting a passion for building, fixing, and improving technology in meaningful ways.

What motivates me

What continues to drive me in the field of IT is the thrill of solving complex, real-world problems. There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from identifying an issue, digging into its root cause, and crafting a solution that not only resolves the immediate problem but improves the overall system. Whether it’s debugging a line of code, troubleshooting network issues, or guiding users through technical challenges, each scenario presents an opportunity to think critically, learn something new, and make a tangible impact.

Even after years of working in tech, that sense of challenge and discovery remains just as motivating as it was in the beginning. Every technical issue is a puzzle waiting to be solved, and I thrive on that process. It’s not just about fixing problems—it’s about understanding them, anticipating them, and continuously growing through them. This mindset fuels my work across every role and project, reinforcing a commitment to excellence, adaptability, and innovation in the ever-evolving world of information technology.

Why I Homelab

To deepen practical experience and push beyond textbook knowledge, I built a personal homelab—a fully functional IT playground designed to replicate real-world environments and challenges. At the core of this setup is a Dell PowerEdge T330 server, providing a robust and reliable foundation for virtualization, storage, and system testing. Prior to this, I assembled a custom small form factor (SFF) PC, tailored for versatility and performance, which serves as a compact yet powerful complement to the lab. Together, these machines allow for hands-on exploration of enterprise-level solutions in a controlled and customizable space.

What makes the homelab truly dynamic is my use of Docker for containerization. By deploying real services—ranging from ad blocking to system backup services. This homelab isn’t just a side project—it’s a living, evolving space where theoretical knowledge is stress-tested against the practical realities of IT, allowing me to stay sharp, solve minuscule problems with scalable solutions, and remain deeply engaged with the tools and technologies that power today’s infrastructure.