Michael Flowers Sr., MBA

Experience

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  Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

  Jul 2009 - Nov 2011

  Network Desktop Technician

  • Network Management: Managed LAN/WAN setup for network PCs, covering connectivity, system setup, daily backups, antivirus management, and troubleshooting.• Virtualization & VM Maintenance: Installed, maintained, and troubleshot virtual machine environments, including participation in property-wide server virtualization initiatives.• Customer Support & Training: Provided technical training to new hires, guided users on OS, applications, and data management, and supported hotel and convention customers with hardware/network issues.• Infrastructure Installation: Led small teams in infrastructure projects, including cable pulling, Cisco switch setup, and network installations for conventions and exhibitions.• IT Asset & Ticket Management: Monitored and managed IT assets, including computer imaging, decommissioning, and handling trouble tickets from initiation to resolution.• Hardware Maintenance & POS Support: Reimaged and updated point-of-sale terminals, tested equipment installations, and conducted software upgrades and telephone equipment repairs. Show less

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  International Foundation For Election Systems

  Jan 2012 - Oct 2018

  Senior Systems Administrator

  • SQL Server & Azure Management: Administered production SQL servers, including data migrations and backups, and managed virtual machines in Microsoft Azure, enhancing data reliability and scalability.• Office 365 & SharePoint Administration: Oversaw Office 365, Exchange Online, and SharePoint, managing content, permissions, and user training to improve organizational productivity.• Process Automation & Cost Efficiency: Led process automation using PowerShell and SharePoint workflows, achieving significant operational efficiency and optimizing IT cost management.• Help Desk & Support Oversight: Supervised IT helpdesk staff, managed Spiceworks for ticketing, and provided training, reducing support tickets by 60% post-office relocation.• Technical Documentation & Incident Resolution: Developed technical documentation, system reports, and incident resolution plans in line with SLAs, ensuring consistent IT support and communication.• System Administration & Virtualization: Enhanced server efficiency by 50% through VMware migration, maintained Active Directory, and managed SCCM for inventory, patch management, and software deployments. Show less

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  Golden Empire Transit District

  Oct 2018 - Mar 2022

  Systems Administrator / Cybersecurity Analyst

  • Cybersecurity Program Development: Established an internal cybersecurity program with SIEM and network monitoring, boosting the organization's cyber maturity and threat visibility.• Virtual & IT Infrastructure Management: Oversaw Hyper-V virtual environment and managed IT infrastructure, including servers, video systems, and VoIP, ensuring stable operations and scalability.• Network Security & Design: Implemented and maintained SonicWALL firewalls, VLANs, VPNs, and redundancy technologies to enhance network security and resilience.• System & Database Administration: Managed SQL server maintenance and upgrades, including automated tasks via PowerShell, and maintained Active Directory, GPOs, DHCP, DNS, and Exchange services.• Mobile & Wireless Solutions: Deployed and managed over 120 CradlePoint routers for a mobile workforce, optimizing communication and GPS tracking through an SD-WAN solution.• Technology & Compliance: Developed data compliance policies and implemented Microsoft SCCM for patch management and software deployment, ensuring adherence to industry standards. Show less

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  Network World

  May 2021 - Sept 2024

  Networking Content Contributor

  • Contributed engaging how-to articles and stories on IT, networking, and security for Network World online publication.• Collaborated with editors and experts to ensure content accuracy and relevance.• Utilized industry knowledge to provide valuable insights and tips for readers.• Enhanced online presence and credibility as a professional in the field.

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  Bakersfield Family Medical Center

  Mar 2022 - now

  • Data Encryption & Security: Led data-at-rest encryption implementation with IBM CipherTrust, securing PHI/PII across all servers and enhancing data protection by 30%.• Cybersecurity Leadership: Key contributor to HITRUST certification, strengthening compliance and fortifying the cybersecurity posture.• Firewall & VPN Solutions: Spearheaded a major firewall upgrade (Juniper to Fortinet) and deployed a VPN/SDWAN solution, saving $150,000 annually and supporting a remote workforce.• Vulnerability Management: Implemented Qualys vulnerability scanner, significantly reducing risks and supporting proactive threat management.• Training & Documentation: Conducted training to improve team response times by 20% and maintained detailed documentation on network, DR, and policies.• Business Continuity: Developed business continuity and disaster recovery plans, enhancing resilience and ensuring readiness for potential disruptions. Show less • SIEM & Vulnerability Management: Led QRadar SIEM deployment and monitored vulnerabilities with Rapid7/Sophos, improving threat detection and reducing risks by 25%.• Network & Virtual Infrastructure: Managed LAN, WLAN (Mist), SDWAN, and VMware virtual infrastructure to ensure stable, secure network performance.• Remote Services & Cloud: Configured remote services and maintained a hybrid Azure AD/Office 365 environment, supporting seamless user access and license management.• Backup & Compliance: Administered backup and recovery systems using VMware, Nimble, and Commvault, while ensuring HIPAA compliance for sensitive data.• Automation & Security: Automated workstation patching and enhanced endpoint security through Windows firewall settings and access controls.• Documentation & Project Management: Developed comprehensive documentation and oversaw help desk project workflows, driving efficient task management and resolution. Show less

  • Systems Engineer II / Cybersecurity Administrator

    Apr 2023 - now

  • System Engineer / Cybersecurity Administrator

    Mar 2022 - May 2023