Software Engineer | Designer | Problem Solver
Matthew Grindstaff | Technical Portfolio
Senior Systems Administrator • Security Specialist • Infrastructure Architect
Expertise in Enterprise Security, Hybrid Cloud Environments, and Mission-Critical IT Operations
Core Competency: Cyber Security & Risk Mitigation Leveraging an active CEH v12 (Certified Ethical Hacker) credential to provide advanced defensive posture and vulnerability management.• Vulnerability Assessment & Hardening: Expert at performing deep-dive security analysis to identify and patch system vulnerabilities across complex Windows and Linux environments.
• Security Appliance Orchestration: Extensive experience implementing and managing SonicWall and Barracuda suites, including VPNs, Spam Filters, Web Filters, and robust backup solutions.
• Advanced Threat Prevention: Utilizes CEH v12 methodologies to conduct comprehensive security audits and assessments, preventing data breaches for diverse corporate clients. Core Competency: Enterprise Infrastructure & Networking A proven track record of architecting and maintaining high-availability networks for organizations with 185+ distributed users. • Unified Communications (Cisco CME): Architected and administered Cisco CallManager Express systems and switches, ensuring seamless VoIP and data integration. • Virtualization & Hybrid Systems: Expert in managing hybrid infrastructures, including the administration of multiple VMware servers (9+ VM environments) alongside Windows Server 2003/2008 units. • Wireless & Network Modernization: Engineered residential and corporate network upgrades using Meraki and Cisco technologies, optimizing for secure connectivity and peak performance. Core Competency: Strategic IT Operations & Leadership Dedicated to operational excellence, cost-efficiency, and user-centric technical mentorship. • Budget Optimization: Demonstrated success in managing departmental IT budgets and repurposing obsolete hardware into functional Ubuntu-based workstations to reduce capital expenditure. • Enterprise Migrations: Led large-scale transitions to Google Apps for corporate email, including the implementation of mobile device security policies and Outlook synchronization. • Mission-Critical Support: Provided comprehensive 24/7/365 on-call support for entire organizational technology spectrums, maintaining a professional manner with high-volume repeat clients. Technical Toolkit Summary • Operating Systems: Windows (Server 2003-2012, XP-10), Linux (Ubuntu, OpenSuse), MS-DOS. • Security & Networking: CEH v12, TCP/IP, SonicWall, Barracuda, Cisco VPN, DHCP, DNS. • Specialized Software: Active Directory, SQL Server, Exchange, VMware, Cisco Network Assistant, Microsoft Office. Signature Project: North Carolina Infrastructure Revitalization • The Challenge: Serving as the sole point of contact for 185+ users across the North Carolina technology spectrum. • The Solution: Managed a hybrid infrastructure of 9 VMware servers and multiple Windows Server units, while simultaneously deploying Cisco CME and securing the perimeter with SonicWall and Barracuda appliances. • The Result: Streamlined organizational processes, significantly reduced system downtime, and successfully mentored students entering the technology field..
Portfolio PDF