Steve LaPorte
IT Solutions Engineer
- He / Him
- Chicago, IL
- PDF / Printable Version
Versatile IT professional with deep expertise in systems administration, network management, and infrastructure optimization. Proven ability to lead projects, resolve complex issues, and drive operational efficiency while fostering a collaborative team environment. Renowned for clear communication, strong problem-solving skills, and delivering robust IT solutions.
Seeking a Senior-level role where I can bring my experience and leadership to a team that values innovation, diversity, and a commitment to individual and organizational growth.
Work Experience
Senior Systems Engineer
- Deliver full-cycle IT support and project implementation for SMB, nonprofit, and UHNW clients, serving as lead technical contact with an emphasis on providing white-glove service
Network Administrator
- Lead IT operations across cloud, on-prem, and remote environments for WBEZ and Chicago Sun-Times, supporting all network, broadcast, digital, streaming, and print infrastructure
- Manage IAM (SSO, SCIM, RBAC, Active Directory / LDAP, Group Policy, NPS, PKI), LAN (routing and switching, edge firewalls, client and site-to-site VPN, WLAN, DNS, DHCP, VLAN and subnetting), endpoint RMM and XDR, and several SaaS tools and business applications
- Create comprehensive network and systems documentation and automate repetitive tasks with PowerShell, Bash, and RMM to optimize IT workflows and reduce support burden
- Conduct regular security audits, maintain cybersecurity insurance and PCI compliance, and conduct BCDR planning in collaboration with senior and executive leadership
- Provide technical support and training to WBEZ and Sun-Times hybrid staff, and create support documentation, how-to videos, and other training resources for end users
- Creating and maintaining network drawings, systems documentation, and training materials for users
- Key Initiatives:
- Migrated on-prem Exchange 2013 and legacy file shares to Google Workspace
- Deployed Microsoft S2D cluster for highly-available virtualization of core services
- Led endpoint refresh projects and established standard hardware and OS baselines
- Implemented OneLogin SSO with SCIM provisioning and MFA for secure SaaS access
- Installed Meraki MX firewalls at remote sites for seamless site-to-site VPN tunneling
- Fortified IT operations using budget-friendly FOSS tools (Zabbix, Snipe-IT, phpIPAM)
Systems Engineer
- Delivered full-cycle IT support and project implementation for SMB, nonprofit, and UHNW clients, serving as lead technical contact with an emphasis on providing white-glove service
- Led several successful projects and deployments including network builds, cloud migrations, server and endpoint upgrades, VoIP rollouts, and cybersecurity audits
- Performed troubleshooting of complex network and server issues, created network and systems documentation, and provided escalation support and mentorship for Client Support Specialist team
Client Support Specialist II
- Provided remote and onsite level-2 technical support for a diverse MSP client base
- Promoted to Systems Engineer for demonstrated technical proficiency and consistently high-quality client support
Desktop Support Analyst
- Managed Service Desk Support team and trained new hires on internal policies and supporting LOB applications
- Provided desktop & remote support for US staff and escalation support for Service Desk Support team
Service Desk Support Technician
- Managed IT service desk operations, handling inbound support requests and routing tickets to appropriate teams for timely resolution
- Promoted to Desktop Support Analyst in recognition of strong performance and problem-solving skills
Volunteer Experience
Year-Round Volunteer
- Assisting with graphic design, video production & editing, website maintenance, copy editing, IT & technology consulting, instrument repair & maintenance, event audio-video setup, and general operations support & logistics
Personal Projects
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