Ryan Gray

Objective

To apply my technical support experience, data management skills, and problem-solving abilities to enhance IT operations and support organizational goals. I am committed to delivering reliable solutions, learning emerging technologies, and thriving in a collaborative, fast-paced IT environment.

Professional Summary

CompTIA Security+ certified with hands-on experience in Linux and Windows administration, Docker, Proxmox, RAID, NAS/Samba, SSH, port forwarding, DNS, core services, and centralized logging. Skilled in automation, scripting, monitoring, hardening, networking, and secure credential management with Bitwarden. Experienced in troubleshooting, optimizing systems, and implementing scalable, secure IT solutions.

Education

University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado

Bachelor of Arts in Film Production May 2024
Worked up to 25 hours per week while managing a 15-credit course load

Certifications

CompTIA Security+

Home Lab Projects

• Deployed Docker containers for Bitwarden, web applications, and other self-hosted services with persistent storage and network configuration.
• Configured a NAS with RAID-1 for redundancy, SMB/CIFS shares, and automated backups.
• Implemented PostgreSQL server to support DaVinci Resolve workflows and other applications.
• Managed Proxmox hypervisors running multiple Linux and Windows VMs for lab and testing environments.
• Configured networking and security, including VLANs, VPN (Tailscale), firewall rules, and SSH for secure remote access.
• Automated system tasks using Bash and PowerShell scripts and deployed configuration management with Ansible.
• Set up centralized logging and performance monitoring for system health and alerts.
• Documented configurations, network diagrams, and procedures for reproducibility; experimented with Kubernetes clusters, web servers (Nginx/Apache), and lightweight web design projects for testing and learning.

Technical Skills

Experience

Merchandiser – NEXCOM HQ

Virginia Beach, VA (February 2025 – Current)

• Data Management & Accuracy: Performed data entry for new item setup, price changes, item maintenance, and vendor returns, ensuring accuracy and adherence to company standards. Maintained UPC files and managed stock assortments.
• Procurement & Inventory Control: Generated purchase orders, reviewed quantities, tracked shipments, and addressed shipping or billing discrepancies with accounting. Analyzed receiving reports and resolved delays or errors with vendors or store departments.
• Vendor Relations & Negotiation: Negotiated pricing and supplier support, facilitated communication with vendors, and negotiated vendor returns to optimize profitability.
• Merchandise Planning & Promotion: Assisted in model stock and seasonal buying plans, prepared historical analysis for merchandise commitments, and supported corporate promotional events through advertising sheets and system reports.
• Collaboration & Communication: Collaborated with buyers, planners, vendors, and internal teams, ensuring accurate merchandising information and contributing to assortment planning.

IT Support Technician – Buff Techs, Office of Information Technology

University of Colorado, Boulder, CO | May 2023 – May 2024

• Technical Support & Troubleshooting: Provided first-level IT support to students, faculty, and staff, diagnosing and resolving hardware and software issues for computers, laptops, mobile devices, and other peripherals. Escalated complex problems to higher-level support teams when necessary.
• Software Management: Installed, upgraded, and configured software applications on various devices, ensuring they were up-to-date and compatible with university IT standards.
• Device Setup & Configuration: Assisted clients with the setup, configuration, and maintenance of computers, laptops, mobile devices, and other technology peripherals.
• Client Interaction & Communication: Provided client-facing support, addressing inquiries, service requests, and offering guidance on technology-related matters in a professional and customer-friendly manner.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Worked effectively in a team environment, collaborating with colleagues and other IT professionals to deliver exceptional IT support.
• Adaptability & Learning: Demonstrated ability to adapt to evolving technologies and learn new skills as needed to stay current with IT advancements.

Shift Lead – Tasty's Fresh Burgers

Yulee, FL | August 2021 – June 2022

• Customer Service Excellence: Greeted guests warmly, assisted with menu selection, and provided attentive and personalized service to create a positive dining experience.
• Order Accuracy and Efficiency: Accurately took food and beverage orders, ensuring timely delivery of meals from the kitchen to the customer.
• Menu Knowledge and Recommendations: Maintained a thorough understanding of the menu, including ingredients and preparation methods, to offer recommendations and describe menu items to customers.
• Teamwork and Communication: Effectively communicated with kitchen staff to coordinate orders and maintain timely service during peak hours.
• Shift Lead Responsibilities: Assisted with various tasks and supported team members, demonstrating leadership and contributing to smooth operations.

Warehouse Worker – Navy Exchange

Naples, Italy | Dec 2020 – Aug 2021

• Inventory Control & Logistics: Managed receiving, tracking, and processing of shipments using warehouse management systems, ensuring accurate and timely recordkeeping.
• Process Optimization & Accuracy: Maintained detailed operational records, monitored workflows, and ensured compliance with protocols—developing precision and attention to detail relevant to IT systems management.
• Problem Solving & Troubleshooting: Identified and resolved discrepancies in inventory and shipments, building analytical skills applicable to technical troubleshooting.
• Collaboration & Communication: Coordinated with team members and departments to ensure smooth warehouse operations, transferable to IT team environments.

Lifeguard – YMCA / VBLS

Bremerton, WA & Virginia Beach, VA | 2018 – 2020

• Risk Assessment & Monitoring: Maintained situational awareness, monitored safety conditions, and proactively prevented potential hazards—skills transferable to IT monitoring and security.
• Emergency Response & Problem Solving: Responded quickly and effectively to emergencies, demonstrating critical thinking and rapid troubleshooting under pressure.
• Attention to Detail & Compliance: Enforced safety protocols and facility policies, ensuring adherence to standards and procedures relevant to IT operational practices.
• Collaboration & Communication: Coordinated with team members and patrons to maintain safety and order, supporting effective teamwork in technical environments.