James Baird

James baird

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location of James BairdCedar Rapids, Iowa, United States
Followers of James Baird471 followers
  • Timeline

  • About me

    Director of Solution Architecture at CCR Media

  • Education

    • Kirkwood community college

      2009 - 2011
      A.a.s degree lan administration

      Certificate program: Network Security (Second program of study).GPA: 3.81Course Highlights: Cisco CCNA, Network Management, Linux Networking, WAN Basics, TCP/IP, Cabling, Directory Admin (Windows Server, Netware 6.5), Directory Concepts, Net Security Basics, Cyber Laws and Ethics, Network Security Defense, Network Security Attacks.Honors and Accomplishments: - Actively participated in two ISAEGE competitions, an annual network defense challenge organized by ISU in Ames.… Show more Certificate program: Network Security (Second program of study).GPA: 3.81Course Highlights: Cisco CCNA, Network Management, Linux Networking, WAN Basics, TCP/IP, Cabling, Directory Admin (Windows Server, Netware 6.5), Directory Concepts, Net Security Basics, Cyber Laws and Ethics, Network Security Defense, Network Security Attacks.Honors and Accomplishments: - Actively participated in two ISAEGE competitions, an annual network defense challenge organized by ISU in Ames. Demonstrated leadership as team captain, achieving impressive placements of 5th and 2nd. - Consistently recognized on the Dean's List each semester during my tenure at Kirkwood. - Served as a dedicated tutor for the LAN Management program at Kirkwood for a full year, contributing to the academic success of peers. Show less

  • Experience

    • Iowa health system

      Feb 2012 - Aug 2012
      It service representative

      •Remote IT Support for hospitals across Iowa supporting over 30 programs and various other network related issues.•In this position I worked mainly with Windows OS, Unix, VPNs, Active Directory, Epic, SDE and numerous other systems.

    • Windstream

      Aug 2012 - Apr 2013
      Service activation technician

      •Carrier network configuration testing and customer circuit turn up.•Coordinating with other carriers for T1 test and turn up.•Configuring routers to be installed at customer locations to allow access to Windstream services.•Activation of new circuits and testing with customers.

    • Communications engineering company (cec)

      Apr 2013 - Jun 2016
      It systems engineer

      Pre-sales-Assist sales reps in finding solutions that fit customer needs.-Meeting with customers to answer technical questions.-Consulting with customers on what solutions they need and possible upgrades they may require.Engineering-Engineering solutions to spec for VoIP and Network infrastructure overhauls for small to enterprise customers.-Assisting in designing WAN and LAN layout. Finding pricing/availability for carrier connections.Projects-Lead on small to large projects from sales hand-off through implementation.-Onsite technical discovery to ensure correct design.-Project management through completion.-Providing admin and end user training on implemented systems.-Onsite installation of system or cutover and subsequent support following installations.Service-Proactive monitoring for licensing violations and down systems per SLA.-Routine upgrades and maintenance. Both remote or onsite depending on the nature of work to be completed or customer preference.-Prioritizing workload based on severity of issues reported and SLA requirements.-Partnering with carriers to resolve outages.Primary technologies supported-Brocade/Cisco/Juniper network infrastructure-ShoreTel/Avaya VoIP systems-Sophos UTM, Cisco ASA-Windows Server installation and the AD, DNS, DHCP roles-VMWare-WAN connections. MPLS, TLS, and various VPN technologies. -Telecom connections including SIP, PRI, and Analog loop start circuits. Show less

    • Ccr (circle computer resources)

      Jul 2016 - Jan 2023
      Product engineer

      Technical product lead for CCRM, a business unit of CCR and a member of the Shared Services engineering team. We support 8000 channels across 370 sites in 27 countries from various mediums such as OTA, Cable, Headend providers, OTT, Fiber etc... I oversee product design and enhancement, set benchmarks, and streamline processes within CCRM. My team ensures robust documentation, provides mentorship, and analyzes data to confirm adherence to standards. We equip business leaders with technical insights for informed decisions, engage in client interactions for problem-solving and new projects, and serve as the ultimate escalation point for our 24/7 NOC, clients, and core infrastructure. Show less

    • Ccr media

      Jan 2023 - now

      In my role as the Director of Solution Architecture at CCR Media, I provide strategic, technical, and financial oversight of our technological framework and solutions. Based in Cedar Rapids, IA, I collaborate with sales, engineering, and operations teams to develop innovative products that balance cost, quality, and revenue goals while enhancing client satisfaction. I manage a team of administrators, developers, and engineers with a focus on collaboration, accountability, and exceptional project execution to ensure sustainable growth. By staying current with emerging technologies—particularly in media services infrastructure, automation, systems, and networking—I keep our offerings innovative and competitive.My background includes robust experience with video and audio streaming technologies, as well as developing and maintaining scalable media infrastructure. This expertise enables me to shape new initiatives that meet evolving client needs while driving strong business outcomes. As CCR Media continues to grow, I remain committed to leveraging my leadership, technical and financial acumen to deliver solutions that exceed client expectations and support the long-term success of our organization. Show less As the Manager of Solution Architecture within CCR Media, a division within the CCR family of companies, my role is shaping and guiding the technological framework and solutions for our clients. Located in Cedar Rapids, IA, this position involves a dynamic range of responsibilities, from the strategic development of product solutions to ensuring the consistent growth and enhancement of our product revenue streams.Key Responsibilities:As a primary technical leader and architect, I spearhead new business initiatives, driving technical solutions and strategies in close collaboration with clients and internal teams. I play a crucial role in conceptualizing and introducing innovative products and business strategies, working in tandem with the sales, engineering, and client management teams. My responsibilities extend to managing and mentoring a technical team of administrators and engineers, fostering an environment of growth and learning, and ensuring seamless project execution and client satisfaction. Staying ahead in the ever-evolving field of technology, I am committed to exploring and implementing creative solutions that boost efficiency and enhance the customer experience.Skills and Expertise:My expertise lies in the domain of media services infrastructure and networking, backed by an understanding of video and audio streaming technologies. I bring a wealth of experience in developing, transitioning, and maintaining robust media infrastructure. This role at CCR Media not only allows me to leverage my technical skills and leadership abilities but also places me at the forefront of technological innovation within the CCR family of companies. As we continue to evolve and grow, I am excited to lead and contribute to our journey towards delivering cutting-edge solutions and exceptional client experiences. Show less

      • Director of Solution Architecture

        Jan 2025 - now
      • Manager of Solution Architecture

        Sept 2023 - Jan 2025
      • Lead Product Engineer

        Jan 2023 - Sept 2023
  • Licenses & Certifications

    • Itil foundation 4

      Peoplecert
      Sept 2023
    • Leading others

      Leadership pipeline institute
      View certificate certificate
    • Bcnp. brocade certified network professional. brocade equivalent of the ccnp

      Brocade
      Jan 2016
    • Bcne. brocade certified network engineer. brocade equivalent of the ccna

      Brocade
      Oct 2015