For as long as I can remember, I've had a passion for technology. Whether it's fixing computers, setting up networks, building crypto mining rigs, or developing websites, I've always found myself in the middle of a tech adventure. But it's not just technology that motivates me to get up each morning---it's the thrill of creating something new, something that can transform a business or an industry for the better.
I started my career as a young IT Manager at a small business while earning my degree in Business Administration (BBA) at Robert Morris College. Once I graduated, I took a job as a Computer Technician at Joliet Junior College. The job came with a great perk---free classes---so I jumped at the chance to learn C++. My professor at the time saw my passion and suggested I continue my education with a master's degree. That led me to enroll in the Management Information Systems (MIS) program at Governors State University.
You might think MIS is an unusual choice for someone whose primary passion is tech, but it turned out to be the perfect blend of business and technology for me. It connected my business background with my love for tech in a way that felt right, helping me see the big picture of how technology can drive business success.
And now, Red Oak Labs is here---not just as my next big idea, but as the culmination of everything I've learned and experienced over the past four decades. It combines my love of technology, my background in business, and my deep passion for learning and innovation. I've always been the kind of person who loves diving into the next big thing---not because it's shiny, but because I believe in the power of progress and constant innovation. Red Oak Labs is a reflection of that philosophy.
This isn't just a new project; it's a lifelong commitment to the kind of work I truly love. I can't fully capture my excitement in words as I embark on this journey. So, with great enthusiasm, I present to you Red Oak Labs---a Fractional CIO Consulting business dedicated to helping businesses innovate, grow, and thrive through smart technology solutions.