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Built Technologies, IAM

Okta Deployment

Built Technologies, IAM

Okta Deployment

I led a comprehensive migration of our Identity Provider (IDP) from JumpCloud to Okta, aiming to enhance security, improve user experience, and establish a robust identity and access management foundation for the company. The project involved transitioning authentication for 200 different SaaS applications within a 12-month timeframe, all achieved with a small team of just two people.

Objectives

Enhance Security and User Experience: Upgrade to an industry-leading IDP to provide stronger security measures and a more seamless sign-in process for users accessing SaaS applications.
Implement Advanced Authentication Policies: Develop custom authentication policies within Okta that match the sensitivity of each application, requiring additional layers of authentication for more sensitive applications.
Achieve Passwordless Authentication: Transition to a fully passwordless authentication system, leveraging biometric authentication as the primary method.
Automate Provisioning and Deprovisioning: Implement SCIM (System for Cross-domain Identity Management) to automate user attribute syncing and reduce manual efforts.
Establish a Single Source of Truth: Transform our identity management system to ensure consistent and accurate user data across all applications.
Develop In-House Automation Tools: Create custom solutions to facilitate the migration process and improve operational efficiency.
Reduce Authentication Time: Cut down authentication time for users by 60%, improving productivity across the company.
Build Comprehensive Documentation: Create detailed documentation for all app configurations to assist the service desk team in managing user access efficiently.

My Involvement

Project Leadership: Spearheaded the entire migration project from initial planning to full execution, setting an ambitious timeline of one year and achieving it successfully.
Team Coordination: Collaborated closely with one other team member, maximizing resources and teamwork to meet our goals.
Advanced Authentication Implementation:
- Custom Authentication Policies: Developed policies in Okta that align with the sensitivity levels of applications, enforcing additional authentication steps—such as multi-factor and biometric authentication—for high-risk applications.
- Passwordless Authentication: Achieved a fully passwordless environment by leveraging biometric authentication as the primary method, a significant security enhancement.
- Endpoint Authentication: Implemented Okta’s Desktop Password Sync, synchronizing users’ Okta passwords with their computer passwords to streamline login processes. Plans are underway to roll out passwordless authentication for endpoints as well.
Automation Development:
- BuiltBot Creation: Developed an internal Slack bot named BuiltBot, which directly interacted with users to guide them through the migration process, allowing them to take necessary actions and receive real-time updates.
- Endpoint Management: Automated the removal of the JumpCloud agent from user endpoints and deployed the Okta Verify agent via our Mobile Device Management (MDM) system.
- API Integration: Utilized API calls to various platforms to monitor user setup completion and ensure a smooth transition.
Identity Architecture Enhancement:
- Foundational Architecture Development: Established foundational elements of our identity and access management program, including consistent naming schemas and data flows.
- Source of Truth Establishment: Configured Okta to act as the central hub for identity management, pulling information from our Human Resources Information System (HRIS), Rippling, which serves as the actual source of truth.
- Downstream Synchronization: Ensured all downstream applications pull and sync user attributes from Okta, maintaining data consistency across platforms.
SCIM Implementation:
- Automated user attribute syncing through SCIM for applications like Google Workspace, Slack, and technical platforms like AWS.
- Reduced license costs and manual provisioning efforts by automating user onboarding and offboarding processes.
Documentation Development:
- Comprehensive Documentation System: Built a new documentation system detailing all app configurations, enabling our service desk team to efficiently grant access and assign users via Okta.
- Ground-Up Approach: Created documentation for every application integrated with Okta from scratch, as no prior documentation existed with JumpCloud.

Successes & Failures

Challenges

Ambitious Timeline: Completing the migration of 200 SaaS applications within 12 months required meticulous planning and efficient execution.
Resource Constraints: Achieving such a large-scale migration with a two-person team demanded effective time management and prioritization.
Complex Automation Requirements: Developing in-house tools like BuiltBot to manage user interactions and automate processes added layers of technical complexity.
User Adoption: Encouraging users to adopt new authentication methods, such as passwordless and biometric authentication, and guiding them through the transition.
Data Consistency: Ensuring accurate and consistent user data across all applications during and after the migration.

Solutions and Achievements

Successful Migration: Completed the full migration on schedule, enhancing security and improving user experience across the company.
Advanced Authentication Implementation:
- Custom Policies: Successfully developed and implemented authentication policies tailored to application sensitivity, adding extra security layers where needed.
- Passwordless Environment: Transitioned to a fully passwordless authentication system, significantly enhancing security and user convenience.
- Biometric Authentication: Leveraged biometric methods as the primary authentication lever, increasing security and reducing reliance on passwords.
- Reduced Authentication Time: Cut down authentication time for users by 60%, resulting in substantial time savings and increased productivity across the company.
Efficient Use of Resources: Maximized the capabilities of a small team to deliver a project typically requiring a larger workforce.
BuiltBot Effectiveness: The custom Slack bot streamlined user communication and actions, leading to high user engagement and a smooth migration experience.
Foundational Improvements:
- Identity Architecture: Established a robust identity management framework with clear naming conventions and data flows.
- Centralized Data Management: Transformed Okta into an effective central hub for identity management, seamlessly integrating with Rippling and downstream applications.
Operational Efficiency:
- Automation: Automated provisioning and deprovisioning reduced manual workload and minimized human error.
- Cost Savings: Achieved cost savings by optimizing license usage across multiple SaaS platforms.
Comprehensive Documentation:
- Service Desk Empowerment: Provided the service desk team with detailed documentation, improving their ability to grant access and assign users efficiently.
- Knowledge Base Creation: Established a repository of information for every app integrated with Okta, enhancing internal processes and knowledge sharing.

Outcome

The migration to Okta was a significant success, meeting all objectives within the set timeline. The project resulted in a more secure, efficient, and user-friendly authentication system for over 200 SaaS applications. Implementing advanced authentication methods, including passwordless and biometric authentication, greatly enhanced security and user experience. Reducing authentication time by 60% led to substantial productivity gains company-wide. The foundational architecture improvements, automation implementations, and comprehensive documentation have provided long-term benefits, including streamlined operations, reduced costs, and a scalable identity management framework that supports future growth.

Key Takeaway

By leading a complex migration with limited resources, I demonstrated the ability to manage large-scale projects, develop innovative solutions like BuiltBot, and enhance the company’s overall security and operational efficiency. Implementing advanced authentication policies and achieving a passwordless environment showcased our commitment to security and innovation. The significant reduction in authentication time improved productivity across the company. Establishing comprehensive documentation set a new standard for internal processes and knowledge management. This project highlighted my skills in project management, technical development, and strategic planning, contributing to a transformative improvement in our identity and access management program.

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Built Technologies, Infrastructure

Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Deployment

Built Technologies, Infrastructure

Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Deployment

I led a pivotal project to migrate our company’s VPN infrastructure from a self-hosted OpenVPN server to Twingate, a third-party SaaS solution. This migration was instrumental in implementing Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) principles across the organization.

Objective(s)

Enhance Security: Our existing OpenVPN setup lacked support for modern authentication standards like Single Sign-On (SSO) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Upgrading was essential to boost security and maintain SOC compliance.
Network Segmentation: The old infrastructure grouped resources into just two networks, preventing proper segmentation and granting users excessive access. We aimed to adopt ZTNA best practices by segmenting resources more effectively.
Reduce Maintenance Overhead: Managing the self-hosted OpenVPN server required frequent security patches and maintenance, diverting resources from other critical tasks.

My Involvement

Recognizing critical weaknesses in our existing VPN infrastructure, I took the initiative—without a directive from leadership—to:

Identify and Analyze Issues: Noticed the lack of modern authentication, inadequate network segmentation, and high maintenance demands affecting our security posture and operational efficiency.
Develop a Comprehensive Improvement Plan: Crafted a strategic proposal to overhaul our VPN system, focusing on enhancing security and user experience.
Recommend Optimal Solutions: Researched and evaluated potential platforms, ultimately recommending Twingate as the best fit for our needs.
Lead the Implementation: Orchestrated the migration process, ensuring a seamless transition with near-zero downtime.

In addition, I:

Collaborated Cross-Functionally: Worked closely with the Cloud Platform team to develop Infrastructure as Code (IaC) using Terraform for Twingate deployment and to design the appropriate network architecture in AWS.
Optimized User Experience: Developed custom automations and communication strategies to ensure the new solution was user-friendly for both technical and non-technical team members.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Zero Downtime Requirement: Our developers relied heavily on VPN access for their daily tasks, making uninterrupted connectivity crucial.
Complex Coordination: The project required synchronization between multiple teams and integration of various technologies.
User Adoption: With a diverse user base, the solution needed to be intuitive to minimize disruption and support requests.

Solutions and Achievements

Seamless Migration: Achieved near-zero downtime during the transition, allowing uninterrupted productivity.
Custom Automations: Developed in-house automation tools leveraging APIs from Twingate and our Mobile Device Management systems to guide users through the migration. This included real-time updates on software uninstallation, Twingate installation, and proactive alerts for any issues.
Rapid Adoption: Successfully migrated 90% of team members within a single day due to efficient communication and user-friendly processes.
Consolidation of VPN Services: Unified our AWS (development) VPN and corporate VPN under Twingate, simplifying management and reducing costs.

The Result

The project was completed in an impressive six-month timeframe from initial discussions to full deployment. We now have resource-level network segmentation directly tied to AWS IAM groups, enabling synchronized logical and network access provisioning. The end-user experience remains seamless, but we’ve significantly enhanced our security infrastructure and identity and access management capabilities. This holistic implementation of zero-trust networking has strengthened our organization’s security posture and operational efficiency.

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Automation, Built Technologies

Automated Organization Resources (AORs)

Automation, Built Technologies

Automated Organization Resources (AORs)

At Built, we faced a significant challenge common to many IT organizations: lifecycle management of resources across multiple applications in our core productivity stack, which includes Google Workspace, Slack, Atlassian, and 1Password. Frequent requests to create Google Groups, Shared Drives, Slack channels, and other resources led to a cumbersome manual process. Memberships quickly became outdated as employees changed roles, departments, or left the company. Existing solutions, like linking “Push Groups” from Okta to applications such as Slack or Google, didn’t fully address the core issue of provisioning and deprovisioning resources in a dynamic organizational structure.

To solve this, we developed a fully custom in-house solution called Automated Organizational Resources (AORs). AORs not only manage membership of resources across our core applications but are also extensible enough to provision, update, and delete the resources themselves—such as Shared Drives, Shared Calendars, Slack Groups, 1Password Vaults, and Jira Teams—as structural changes occur within the organization. This solution has virtually eliminated all manual work associated with maintaining resources tied to divisions, departments, subdepartments, teams, people groups, or the entire organization. Team members now receive real-time access to necessary resources as they join or change roles within the company.

Objectives

Streamline Resource Provisioning: Automate the creation, updating, and deletion of resources across core applications in response to organizational changes.
Automate Membership Management: Ensure real-time, accurate membership across all resources as employees join, move within, or leave the company.
Enhance Onboarding Experience: Provide new team members immediate access to all relevant resources, enabling them to contribute from day one.
Reduce Manual Workload: Eliminate the need for manual intervention in resource lifecycle management, freeing up IT resources for other critical tasks.
Improve Data and Process Architecture: Develop an impressive and scalable data and process architecture to support the automation.

My Involvement

Project Leadership: Spearheaded the initiative from concept to implementation, identifying the core issues and defining the project scope.
Solution Design: Architected the overall solution, leveraging REST APIs of our core applications and utilizing Okta Workflows as the automation platform.
Automation Development:
- Built automations to handle provisioning, updating, and deletion of resources across Google Workspace, Slack, Atlassian, and 1Password.
- Developed logic to manage memberships in real-time, aligned with organizational changes.
Integration of BuiltBot:
- Enhanced our in-house user-facing Slack bot, BuiltBot, to communicate resource access changes to team members in real time.
- Enabled BuiltBot to provide direct links to resources, improving user experience and engagement.
Data and Process Architecture:
- Designed an extensible data model to support various organizational structures (Division, Department, Subdepartment, Team, People Group).
- Ensured scalability and adaptability of the architecture to accommodate future growth and changes.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Worked closely with HR, IT, and department heads to align the solution with company policies and workflows.

Successes & Failures

Challenges

Complex Lifecycle Management: Needed to account for dynamic organizational structures and frequent changes in team compositions.
Integration Across Multiple Platforms: Had to seamlessly integrate with various applications, each with its own API limitations and requirements.
Real-Time Synchronization: Ensuring that changes in organizational structure reflected immediately across all resources and applications.
User Communication: Developing an effective method to notify users of resource changes without causing information overload.
Low-Code Limitations: Pushed the boundaries of what could be achieved with a low-code platform like Okta Workflows.

Solutions and Achievements

Custom Automation Framework:
- Built a robust automation framework using Okta Workflows, despite its low-code nature, achieving impressive data and process architecture.
- Leveraged REST APIs to interact with each application, enabling full control over resource lifecycle.
Dynamic Membership Management:
- Implemented automations that adjust resource memberships in real time as employees change roles, ensuring they have appropriate access at all times.
Resource Provisioning and Deprovisioning:
- Automated the creation and deletion of resources (e.g., Shared Drives, Slack Channels) as organizational units are formed or disbanded.
Enhanced Onboarding Process:
- Streamlined onboarding by providing new hires immediate access to all necessary resources, reducing ramp-up time.
BuiltBot Integration:
- Utilized BuiltBot to communicate changes to users effectively, providing direct links and reducing confusion.
Reduced Manual Effort:
- Eliminated the need for manual updates to resource memberships and provisioning, significantly reducing the IT team’s workload.
Scalability:
- Designed the solution to be extensible, allowing for easy addition of new applications or organizational units in the future.

Outcome

The implementation of Automated Organizational Resources (AORs) has transformed our resource management processes. We have eliminated virtually all manual tasks associated with maintaining resource memberships and provisioning across our core applications. Team members now receive immediate access to necessary resources when they join or change roles, enhancing productivity and collaboration from day one. The solution has also significantly reduced the workload on our IT team, allowing them to focus on more strategic initiatives.

Ket Takeaway

By developing a custom, scalable automation solution, we effectively addressed the complex challenge of lifecycle management for resources across multiple applications. This project showcases the power of innovative thinking and leveraging existing technologies to create impactful solutions. It highlights my ability to lead complex projects, design robust architectures, and improve organizational efficiency through automation.

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Built Technologies, Events

Built Kick Off

Built Technologies, Events

Built Kick Off

I played a pivotal role in elevating our company’s annual kick-off event, Built Kick-Off (BKO), by leading the technical planning and execution. This year, leadership aimed to transform the event by moving it off-site to a professional venue with advanced audio/visual (A/V) capabilities and a more engaging atmosphere. Leveraging my previous experience with advanced A/V equipment from volunteer work in high school and college, I stepped up to direct the technical aspects of the event.

Objective(s)

Enhance the Event Experience: Transition the annual kick-off to a professional venue to create a dynamic and engaging environment for all team members.
Deliver High-Quality A/V Production: Utilize advanced A/V equipment to improve in-house visuals and ensure a seamless broadcast for remote attendees via Zoom.
Cost Efficiency: Achieve a high-caliber event without the expense of hiring external A/V companies, thereby saving the company significant funds.

My Involvement

Technical Planning Lead: Took the initiative to lead the technical planning for the event, drawing upon my A/V expertise.
A/V Technical Director: Acted as the technical director on the day of the event, managing both the in-house A/V setup and the live Zoom broadcast.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinated with various teams across the company and worked closely with the executive team to ensure all technical requirements were met.
Resource Management: Optimized the use of in-house resources and equipment to deliver a professional-quality event without external assistance.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Complex Technical Setup: Managing advanced A/V equipment in an unfamiliar venue required meticulous planning and technical proficiency.
Dual Audience Engagement: Needed to provide an exceptional experience for both in-person attendees and remote participants.
Budget Constraints: Aimed to deliver a Fortune 500-level event experience while adhering to budget limitations.
High Expectations: Ensuring a flawless execution under the scrutiny of leadership and the entire company.

Solutions and Achievements

Flawless Execution: Delivered a seamless event that exceeded expectations, with smooth transitions and high-quality audio and visuals.
Cost Savings: Successfully executed the event without the need for expensive external A/V companies, saving the company tens of thousands of dollars.
Positive Feedback: Received overwhelming positive feedback from the executive team and employees, who were impressed by the professionalism of the event.
Boosted Morale: The event energized the team and fostered a revitalized enthusiasm as the company entered a critical year for our product.
Effective Remote Broadcast: Managed a high-quality Zoom broadcast that allowed remote team members to fully participate and engage with the event.

The Result

The event was a resounding success, transforming our annual kick-off into a high-caliber experience typically associated with much larger organizations. My leadership in technical planning and execution not only elevated the quality of the event but also demonstrated how in-house expertise can achieve outstanding results while being cost-effective. The success of BKO set a positive tone for the year ahead, aligning the team with the company’s goals and invigorating everyone involved.

WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS

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Enexor

Industries Of The Future

Enexor

Industries Of The Future

During my tenure as Manager for Innovation & Technology at Enexor, I was featured in a docuseries titled “Industries of the Future.” This opportunity allowed us to demonstrate Enexor’s leadership in industrial controls and automation and showcase our cutting-edge innovations that are influencing the broader industry.

Objective(s)

Highlight Industry Leadership: Demonstrate Enexor’s expertise and advancements in the fields of industrial controls and automation.
Showcase Innovations: Present how our cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future of the industry.

My Involvement

I was selected to represent Enexor in the docuseries, providing technical insights into my role, our company’s products, and the evolving industry landscape. Through in-depth interviews and on-site demonstrations, I helped illustrate Enexor’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to innovation. My contributions aimed to position the company as a leader in technology and to inspire others within the industry.

The Result

The docuseries aired successfully, receiving positive feedback from viewers and industry professionals alike. It enhanced Enexor’s reputation as an innovative leader and opened up opportunities for new partnerships and collaborations. The feature also served as a valuable marketing asset, highlighting our technological advancements to potential clients and stakeholders.

Watch The Film

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Enexor

X-VENT Emergency Ventilator

Enexor

X-VENT Emergency Ventilator

When Enexor’s upper management decided to pivot rapidly to design and manufacture an emergency ventilator in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was tasked with planning, designing, and developing the touchscreen interface for the ventilator, known as the X-VENT. This was an extremely challenging yet highly rewarding project that required me to learn an entirely new suite of programming tools and collaborate closely with the engineering team to develop the graphical interface simultaneously as the microprocessor logic was being programmed. The task demanded overcoming a steep learning curve, delivering on tight deadlines, and communicating with utmost precision.

Objective(s)

Design and Develop Touchscreen Interface: Create a user-friendly and reliable touchscreen interface for the X-VENT ventilator.
Rapid Skill Acquisition: Quickly learn new software, programming languages, and rapid development methodologies.
Understand Medical Industry Requirements: Acquire knowledge of medical terminology, design elements, and device capabilities pertinent to ventilator technology.

My Involvement

As the sole person assigned to develop the interface, I collaborated extensively with colleagues across various company functions to deliver the final product:

Software Mastery: Quickly dove into learning the programming software by collaborating with our industry partner and HMI manufacturer, Schneider Electric. This involved understanding a variation of the Java programming language specific to the hardware.
Simultaneous Development: Worked alongside the engineering team to coordinate device functionality while they developed the microprocessor logic.
Design Collaboration: Partnered with the marketing and design team to create meaningful and easy-to-use graphics, ensuring the interface was intuitive for medical professionals.
Meeting Rigorous Deadlines: Managed time effectively to meet the strict deadlines set by upper management for the product launch, often putting in overtime to ensure milestones were achieved.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Steep Learning Curve: Needed to rapidly learn new programming tools and medical industry concepts without formal training.
Simultaneous Multi-Team Coordination: Had to ensure that the touchscreen interface aligned perfectly with the microprocessor logic being developed concurrently by another team.
Extreme Deadlines: Operated under intense time pressure due to the urgent global need for ventilators.
Precision Communication: Required clear and precise communication across multiple teams to prevent any misunderstandings that could delay the project.

Solutions and Achievements

Rapid Skill Acquisition: Successfully mastered the new programming software and language in a short time frame, enabling me to begin development promptly.
Effective Collaboration: Maintained close coordination with engineering, marketing, and design teams to ensure all components of the ventilator functioned seamlessly together.
Timely Delivery: Met all critical deadlines, contributing to the timely launch of the X-VENT ventilator.
Real-World Impact: The touchscreen interface I developed is currently deployed on the X-VENT ventilator and is actively helping to save lives during the pandemic.

Outcome

Despite the numerous challenges, the project was a significant success. The X-VENT ventilator was brought to production with a functional and intuitive touchscreen interface. My contributions were essential in getting the product ready for deployment during a critical time. The experience not only allowed me to expand my technical skills but also to make a meaningful impact during a global health crisis.

Key Takeaway

By embracing rapid learning and demonstrating adaptability, I delivered a crucial component of a life-saving medical device under extreme deadlines. This project showcased my ability to overcome challenges, collaborate effectively across teams, and contribute significantly to a mission-critical initiative.

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Enexor

Enexor Command Center

Enexor

Enexor Command Center

I architected and implemented Enexor’s Global Operations Center—a large-scale command center integrated with highly customized control software. This center displays real-time operational data from assets across the globe to our headquarters, enabling 24/7 monitoring of mission-critical assets.

Objective(s)

Design and Construct a Video Wall: Identify, plan, and build a video wall utilizing a TCP/IP backbone to effectively display critical operational data.
Develop Technical Infrastructure: Build the technical backbone required to support monitoring software and meet the demands of the video wall.
Integrate SCADA Assets: Connect Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) assets to licensed Operations Machine Interface (OMI) software.
Customize OMI Software: Design and program the OMI software to display mission-critical data from field assets in an intuitive and actionable manner.
Ensure Security and Reliability: Audit system security and ensure reliability through extensive testing and redundancy measures.

My Involvement

At the start of 2020, I was tasked with this project. I collaborated closely with industry partners Schneider Electric and AVEVA to identify the appropriate software and hardware stack to achieve our objectives. Additionally, I worked with Enexor’s engineering team to establish communication links between the monitored assets and the monitoring system. This involved identifying the critical variables to be monitored and developing formulas to derive business-driven metrics from asset-level data.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Complex System Integration: Integrating various hardware and software components into a cohesive monitoring system.
Real-Time Data Processing: Ensuring the system could handle real-time data from assets across the globe without latency issues.
Security and Reliability: Implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive operational data and ensuring system reliability.

Solutions and Achievements

Video Wall Construction: Successfully designed and built the video wall, providing a centralized display for global asset monitoring.
Technical Backbone Implementation: Implemented the necessary hardware and software infrastructure to support the monitoring demands.
Software Customization: Customized the OMI software to display real-time, mission-critical data effectively.
Asset Integration: Connected test assets successfully, enabling real-time monitoring during the beta phase.
Under Budget: Managed the project efficiently, keeping it under budget while meeting all technical requirements.

Outcome

At the time of writing, the project is still in progress. Significant milestones have been achieved, including the completion of the video wall, implementation of the hardware and software stack, successful connection of test assets, and completion of the beta monitoring program. The project remains under budget and is on track to provide Enexor with a state-of-the-art Global Operations Center for 24/7 monitoring of mission-critical assets.

Key Takeaway

By architecting and implementing a complex, real-time monitoring system, I have contributed significantly to enhancing Enexor’s operational capabilities. The Global Operations Center will enable the company to monitor assets worldwide effectively, leading to improved efficiency, proactive maintenance, and better decision-making.

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ACU, SGA

KJ4SGA Campaign

ACU, SGA

KJ4SGA Campaign

In my junior year at Abilene Christian University, I recognized a growing need for strong leadership amid significant university expansion and a shifting student demographic. Believing I could make a positive impact, I decided to run for Student Body President. Inspired by past leaders, I was committed to addressing both large and small issues within the Student Government Association (SGA). I partnered with Rachel Jones, an exceptionally talented student leader who shared my vision for uniting the student body.

Objective(s)

Unite the Student Body: Create a deliberate, exciting, and substantive campaign that brings together students from all classifications.
Effective Communication: Clearly convey our campaign vision to the student body and engage students from diverse backgrounds to support and participate in the campaign.
Secure the Presidency: Win the Student Body President position at Abilene Christian University.
Assemble a Dedicated Team: Recruit a driven team of individuals to serve as cabinet members and assist in executing our campaign platform.
Fulfill Campaign Promises: Execute all goals and promises made during the campaign to the best of our ability.

My Involvement

Turning vision into action, I assembled a committed campaign team. My first priority was finding a competent and passionate running mate, which led me to collaborate with Rachel Jones for the Vice President role. We developed a campaign website, kj4sga.com, to communicate our vision and launched multiple social media accounts to promote our message. Engaging with students both online and in person, we gathered insights into the issues they cared about most.

Despite facing the incumbent Vice President and having less experience in SGA, our campaign gained significant momentum. We received endorsements from peers and the campus newspaper, The Optimist. Advancing to a runoff election, we continued our efforts, overcoming obstacles—including a misinformation campaign—to ultimately secure the presidency.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Limited Experience: Overcame the disadvantage of having less SGA experience compared to the incumbent.
Misinformation Campaign: Addressed and countered false information circulated during the election.
Uniting Diverse Groups: Worked to bring together students from various classifications and demographics.
Resource Management: Balanced academic responsibilities with the demands of an intensive campaign.

The Result

Our administration was widely regarded as productive and effective. The Optimist editorial board praised our unity and noted that we exceeded the expectations set by our campaign platform. We successfully enhanced campus unity, increased student engagement, and improved the efficiency and impact of the Student Government Association.

Successful Campaign Execution: Ran a compelling campaign that resonated with a wide range of students, leading to electoral victory.
Effective Team Building: Assembled an Executive Cabinet to help achieve SGA’s goals and initiatives.
Fulfilled Promises: Delivered on nearly all campaign promises through hard work and collaborative efforts.
Advocacy: Ensured student voices were heard on controversial issues, including university policies affecting same-sex relationships.
Organizational Improvements:
- Constitutional Overhaul: Rewrote the SGA constitution and bylaws, hosting a constitutional convention for significant amendments.
- SGA Week: Launched a major marketing initiative to boost student interest and involvement in SGA and promote congress elections.
- Judicial Branch Addition: Established a judicial branch to oversee legislation and student disciplinary matters.
- Budget Allocation Tool: Developed an automated spreadsheet to fairly calculate funding for student organizations.
- Congressional Seats Filled: Nearly all congressional seats were filled—a first in over four years.
Campus Enhancements:
- Bird Scooters Partnership: Introduced Bird Scooters to campus, the company’s first university partnership, generating external revenue for SGA.
- Accessibility Improvements: Upgraded doors in high-traffic areas to enhance accessibility and efficiency.
Community Building:
- “LitMas” Tradition: Initiated a new campus event uniting students before the holiday break.
- March Madness Watch Party: Celebrated the men’s and women’s basketball teams’ NCAA tournament appearances with a campus-wide event.
- Collaboration with Campus Organizations: Partnered with the Campus Activities Board and New Student Programs to host events that brought together diverse student groups.
- “Join Week” Program: Encouraged students to get involved with campus organizations through a new initiative at the start of the fall semester.
Athletics Support:
- Tailgating and Contests: Supported social clubs in participating in athletic events.
- Scholarships and Prizes: Distributed $3,000 in scholarships and other incentives to boost attendance at on-campus sporting events.
- Discounted Game Tickets: Provided 200 discounted tickets to the football season opener against Baylor University.

Key Takeaway

Through dedicated leadership and a commitment to our campaign promises, we made a significant positive impact on campus life at Abilene Christian University. This experience honed my skills in leadership, teamwork, and project management, reinforcing the importance of uniting diverse groups to achieve common goals.

Quote from The Optimist editorial board:

We applauded their unity as a team and believe they lived up to expectations this year, and exceeded what their platform a year ago had to offer.

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ACU, SGA

ACU SGA Fall Report

ACU, SGA

ACU SGA Fall Report

As Student Body President at Abilene Christian University, I guided the Student Government Association (SGA) in releasing its first-ever Fall Semester Report. This groundbreaking document outlined the accomplishments of the Executive Cabinet during the Fall semester and set a vision for the upcoming Spring semester. The report was distributed to the university’s Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and presented to University President Dr. Phil Schubert.

Objective(s)

Inform Stakeholders: Update faculty and students on SGA’s progress throughout the semester.
Set Future Expectations: Establish clear goals and expectations for the upcoming semester.
Highlight Achievements: Showcase the accomplishments of the Student Congress and provide an overview of pending legislation.

My Involvement

As the leader of a team of seven Executive Cabinet members, I oversaw the creation of the Fall Semester Report. Specifically:

Team Leadership: Directed the communications team, which included a Press Secretary and a Marketing Director.
Strategic Planning: Outlined the objectives for the report, emphasizing the need for a professional and visually engaging document.
Collaboration: Worked closely with the communications team to ensure the report accurately reflected our achievements and future goals.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Tight Deadlines: Faced unrealistic deadlines that put pressure on the team and the quality of the final product.
Communication Hiccups: Experienced miscommunications that led to a rushed final editing process and insufficient proofing.

Solutions and Achievements

Professional Deliverable: Despite challenges, the communications team produced a professional, concise, and informative report.
Stakeholder Engagement: Successfully distributed the report to the SLT and presented it to the University President, enhancing transparency and accountability.
Lessons Learned: Conducted a post-project debrief to address the issues faced, leading to improved communication strategies and more realistic deadline setting for future projects.

The Result

The Fall Semester Report was well-received by faculty, students, and university leadership. It set a new precedent for transparency within the SGA and provided a clear roadmap for the upcoming semester. The experience highlighted the importance of effective communication, realistic planning, and team coordination.

VIEW THE REPORT

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ACU, Events

Wildcat Week Concert

ACU, Events

Wildcat Week Concert

During my time at Abilene Christian University (ACU), I was selected as a Student Director for Wildcat Week—a seven-day orientation program designed to create community and promote school spirit among first-year students. Each Student Director is solely responsible for developing, organizing, planning, and executing a series of events. I was entrusted with one of the program’s most significant responsibilities: orchestrating the grand finale concert.

Objective(s)

Select a Relevant Artist: Choose a headlining artist who would appeal to a wide demographic of attendees, including first-year students, current students, and alumni.
Create a Festival Atmosphere: Develop a “festival-style” environment to foster community engagement and keep attendees entertained throughout the event.
Unite the Campus Community: Bring together current students and alumni to celebrate and welcome the incoming freshman class.

My Involvement

I was directly responsible for every facet of the concert, including:

Artist and Venue Selection: Collaborated with university leadership to choose a suitable artist and venue that aligned with our objectives and budget.
Vendor Coordination: Managed relationships with vendors for staging, audio/visual equipment, and other event necessities.
Budgeting and Fundraising: Developed and managed the event budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness while delivering a high-quality experience.
Marketing and Branding: Worked with ACU’s Creative Services division to develop a marketing plan and promotional materials.
Event Execution: Oversaw all logistical aspects leading up to and during the event to ensure a seamless experience.

To elevate the event beyond a traditional concert, I drew inspiration from the renowned Austin City Limits Music Festival, branding our event as “Abilene City Limits.” We secured Jesse McCartney, a well-known artist and personal inspiration, as the headliner. To engage current students and alumni, I leveraged my leadership position on the Campus Activities Board (The Cabinet), which plans free events for students throughout the academic year.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Venue Crisis: Two days before the event, a pipe burst at our planned outdoor venue, rendering it unusable.
Time Constraints: The last-minute venue change required rapid coordination and problem-solving under extreme time pressure.
Logistical Complexity: Coordinating between multiple vendors, university departments, and the artist’s team to ensure all requirements were met.

Solutions and Achievements

Emergency Venue Relocation: Anticipating potential issues, I had previously identified a backup venue and developed a contingency plan. Within 24 hours of the crisis, I coordinated with all parties to relocate the event seamlessly.
Effective Communication: Maintained clear and prompt communication with vendors, university officials, the artist’s management, and my team to ensure everyone was aligned despite the sudden changes.
Enhanced Event Experience:
- Social Media Engagement: Organized a creative artist reveal on social media, dropping hints throughout the day leading up to a live announcement on Twitter and Instagram.
- VIP Meet and Greet: Arranged an exclusive opportunity for students to meet Jesse McCartney, increasing excitement and engagement.
- Professional A/V Production: Collaborated with 83 Entertainment, a local production company, to deliver high-quality audio/visual setups, including an IMAG package, lighting, and staging per the artist’s requirements.

The Result

High Attendance: Attracted over 3,000 attendees, surpassing previous years’ numbers.
Community Building: Successfully united first-year students, current students, and alumni, fostering a strong sense of community.
Positive Feedback: Received overwhelmingly positive responses from attendees, university leadership, and the artist’s team.
Achievement of Objectives: Met all goals outlined for the event, enhancing school spirit and setting a new standard for future Wildcat Week concerts.

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All Work

All

SGA

Infrastructure

IAM

Events

Enexor

Built Technologies

Built Bot

Automation

ACU

Built Technologies, Infrastructure

Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Deployment

Built Technologies, Infrastructure

Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Deployment

Objective(s)

Enhance Security: Our existing OpenVPN setup lacked support for modern authentication standards like Single Sign-On (SSO) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Upgrading was essential to boost security and maintain SOC compliance.
Network Segmentation: The old infrastructure grouped resources into just two networks, preventing proper segmentation and granting users excessive access. We aimed to adopt ZTNA best practices by segmenting resources more effectively.
Reduce Maintenance Overhead: Managing the self-hosted OpenVPN server required frequent security patches and maintenance, diverting resources from other critical tasks.

My Involvement

Recognizing critical weaknesses in our existing VPN infrastructure, I took the initiative—without a directive from leadership—to:

Identify and Analyze Issues: Noticed the lack of modern authentication, inadequate network segmentation, and high maintenance demands affecting our security posture and operational efficiency.
Develop a Comprehensive Improvement Plan: Crafted a strategic proposal to overhaul our VPN system, focusing on enhancing security and user experience.
Recommend Optimal Solutions: Researched and evaluated potential platforms, ultimately recommending Twingate as the best fit for our needs.
Lead the Implementation: Orchestrated the migration process, ensuring a seamless transition with near-zero downtime.

In addition, I:

Collaborated Cross-Functionally: Worked closely with the Cloud Platform team to develop Infrastructure as Code (IaC) using Terraform for Twingate deployment and to design the appropriate network architecture in AWS.
Optimized User Experience: Developed custom automations and communication strategies to ensure the new solution was user-friendly for both technical and non-technical team members.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Zero Downtime Requirement: Our developers relied heavily on VPN access for their daily tasks, making uninterrupted connectivity crucial.
Complex Coordination: The project required synchronization between multiple teams and integration of various technologies.
User Adoption: With a diverse user base, the solution needed to be intuitive to minimize disruption and support requests.

Solutions and Achievements

Seamless Migration: Achieved near-zero downtime during the transition, allowing uninterrupted productivity.
Custom Automations: Developed in-house automation tools leveraging APIs from Twingate and our Mobile Device Management systems to guide users through the migration. This included real-time updates on software uninstallation, Twingate installation, and proactive alerts for any issues.
Rapid Adoption: Successfully migrated 90% of team members within a single day due to efficient communication and user-friendly processes.
Consolidation of VPN Services: Unified our AWS (development) VPN and corporate VPN under Twingate, simplifying management and reducing costs.

The Result

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Automation, Built Technologies

Automated Organization Resources (AORs)

Automation, Built Technologies

Automated Organization Resources (AORs)

Objectives

Streamline Resource Provisioning: Automate the creation, updating, and deletion of resources across core applications in response to organizational changes.
Automate Membership Management: Ensure real-time, accurate membership across all resources as employees join, move within, or leave the company.
Enhance Onboarding Experience: Provide new team members immediate access to all relevant resources, enabling them to contribute from day one.
Reduce Manual Workload: Eliminate the need for manual intervention in resource lifecycle management, freeing up IT resources for other critical tasks.
Improve Data and Process Architecture: Develop an impressive and scalable data and process architecture to support the automation.

My Involvement

Project Leadership: Spearheaded the initiative from concept to implementation, identifying the core issues and defining the project scope.
Solution Design: Architected the overall solution, leveraging REST APIs of our core applications and utilizing Okta Workflows as the automation platform.
Automation Development:
- Built automations to handle provisioning, updating, and deletion of resources across Google Workspace, Slack, Atlassian, and 1Password.
- Developed logic to manage memberships in real-time, aligned with organizational changes.
Integration of BuiltBot:
- Enhanced our in-house user-facing Slack bot, BuiltBot, to communicate resource access changes to team members in real time.
- Enabled BuiltBot to provide direct links to resources, improving user experience and engagement.
Data and Process Architecture:
- Designed an extensible data model to support various organizational structures (Division, Department, Subdepartment, Team, People Group).
- Ensured scalability and adaptability of the architecture to accommodate future growth and changes.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Worked closely with HR, IT, and department heads to align the solution with company policies and workflows.

Successes & Failures

Challenges

Complex Lifecycle Management: Needed to account for dynamic organizational structures and frequent changes in team compositions.
Integration Across Multiple Platforms: Had to seamlessly integrate with various applications, each with its own API limitations and requirements.
Real-Time Synchronization: Ensuring that changes in organizational structure reflected immediately across all resources and applications.
User Communication: Developing an effective method to notify users of resource changes without causing information overload.
Low-Code Limitations: Pushed the boundaries of what could be achieved with a low-code platform like Okta Workflows.

Solutions and Achievements

Custom Automation Framework:
- Built a robust automation framework using Okta Workflows, despite its low-code nature, achieving impressive data and process architecture.
- Leveraged REST APIs to interact with each application, enabling full control over resource lifecycle.
Dynamic Membership Management:
- Implemented automations that adjust resource memberships in real time as employees change roles, ensuring they have appropriate access at all times.
Resource Provisioning and Deprovisioning:
- Automated the creation and deletion of resources (e.g., Shared Drives, Slack Channels) as organizational units are formed or disbanded.
Enhanced Onboarding Process:
- Streamlined onboarding by providing new hires immediate access to all necessary resources, reducing ramp-up time.
BuiltBot Integration:
- Utilized BuiltBot to communicate changes to users effectively, providing direct links and reducing confusion.
Reduced Manual Effort:
- Eliminated the need for manual updates to resource memberships and provisioning, significantly reducing the IT team’s workload.
Scalability:
- Designed the solution to be extensible, allowing for easy addition of new applications or organizational units in the future.

Outcome

Ket Takeaway

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Built Technologies, Events

Built Kick Off

Built Technologies, Events

Built Kick Off

Objective(s)

Enhance the Event Experience: Transition the annual kick-off to a professional venue to create a dynamic and engaging environment for all team members.
Deliver High-Quality A/V Production: Utilize advanced A/V equipment to improve in-house visuals and ensure a seamless broadcast for remote attendees via Zoom.
Cost Efficiency: Achieve a high-caliber event without the expense of hiring external A/V companies, thereby saving the company significant funds.

My Involvement

Technical Planning Lead: Took the initiative to lead the technical planning for the event, drawing upon my A/V expertise.
A/V Technical Director: Acted as the technical director on the day of the event, managing both the in-house A/V setup and the live Zoom broadcast.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinated with various teams across the company and worked closely with the executive team to ensure all technical requirements were met.
Resource Management: Optimized the use of in-house resources and equipment to deliver a professional-quality event without external assistance.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Complex Technical Setup: Managing advanced A/V equipment in an unfamiliar venue required meticulous planning and technical proficiency.
Dual Audience Engagement: Needed to provide an exceptional experience for both in-person attendees and remote participants.
Budget Constraints: Aimed to deliver a Fortune 500-level event experience while adhering to budget limitations.
High Expectations: Ensuring a flawless execution under the scrutiny of leadership and the entire company.

Solutions and Achievements

Flawless Execution: Delivered a seamless event that exceeded expectations, with smooth transitions and high-quality audio and visuals.
Cost Savings: Successfully executed the event without the need for expensive external A/V companies, saving the company tens of thousands of dollars.
Positive Feedback: Received overwhelming positive feedback from the executive team and employees, who were impressed by the professionalism of the event.
Boosted Morale: The event energized the team and fostered a revitalized enthusiasm as the company entered a critical year for our product.
Effective Remote Broadcast: Managed a high-quality Zoom broadcast that allowed remote team members to fully participate and engage with the event.

The Result

WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS

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Automation, Built Bot, Built Technologies

OS Update Automation

Automation, Built Bot, Built Technologies

OS Update Automation

Project details coming soon…

Enexor

Enexor Command Center

Enexor

Enexor Command Center

Objective(s)

Design and Construct a Video Wall: Identify, plan, and build a video wall utilizing a TCP/IP backbone to effectively display critical operational data.
Develop Technical Infrastructure: Build the technical backbone required to support monitoring software and meet the demands of the video wall.
Integrate SCADA Assets: Connect Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) assets to licensed Operations Machine Interface (OMI) software.
Customize OMI Software: Design and program the OMI software to display mission-critical data from field assets in an intuitive and actionable manner.
Ensure Security and Reliability: Audit system security and ensure reliability through extensive testing and redundancy measures.

My Involvement

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Complex System Integration: Integrating various hardware and software components into a cohesive monitoring system.
Real-Time Data Processing: Ensuring the system could handle real-time data from assets across the globe without latency issues.
Security and Reliability: Implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive operational data and ensuring system reliability.

Solutions and Achievements

Video Wall Construction: Successfully designed and built the video wall, providing a centralized display for global asset monitoring.
Technical Backbone Implementation: Implemented the necessary hardware and software infrastructure to support the monitoring demands.
Software Customization: Customized the OMI software to display real-time, mission-critical data effectively.
Asset Integration: Connected test assets successfully, enabling real-time monitoring during the beta phase.
Under Budget: Managed the project efficiently, keeping it under budget while meeting all technical requirements.

Outcome

Key Takeaway

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Enexor

Industries Of The Future

Enexor

Industries Of The Future

Objective(s)

Highlight Industry Leadership: Demonstrate Enexor’s expertise and advancements in the fields of industrial controls and automation.
Showcase Innovations: Present how our cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future of the industry.

My Involvement

The Result

Watch The Film

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Enexor

Enexor Energy Video

Enexor

Enexor Energy Video

Enexor BioEnergy was selected as a finalist in the Halliburton Labs accelerator competition, providing the opportunity for strategic investors, partners, and collaborators to join in on Enexor’s mission to create clean energy from on-site organic and plastic waste. Ty was brought in to create a compelling video pitch that communicated Enexor’s vision, values, mission, and progress to an audience of high-profile enterprises. The pitch needed to be professional yet concise, with a seven-minute time constraint applied to all participants.

Objective(s)

Create a compelling video to communicate the mission, values, and progress of Enexor BioEnergy.
Aid the CEO in creating a video presentation that could be repurposed for other external uses.
Film, edit and produce a blue-chip level video in just seven days.

My Involvement

Ty was directly responsible for planning, filming, editing, and producing the video. Ty worked to create all of the motion graphics used throughout the video, set up and prepared Studio X for filming and captured all aerial shots of the product using a DJI drone. He then proceeded to edit the entire video with guidance from the CEO on the desired end product.

Successes and Failures

The video was an absolute success. All deadlines were met, and the video accomplished its goals of starting conversations with potential partners and investors. Additionally, the video was repurposed to provide an update to current investors and facilitate future communications with external parties. The video received much praise from both internal and external individuals.

The Result

WATCH THE VIDEO

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Enexor

Enterprise Network Upgrade

Enexor

Enterprise Network Upgrade

Upon joining Enexor, I identified a significant lack of IT infrastructure that was causing frequent disruptions in workplace productivity. The company relied on a single ISP-provided router/modem combo as the primary Wi-Fi router for both the entire office building and the connected 40,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility. Network outages were common and disruptive, often forcing employees to use personal hotspots until the issue was resolved—usually by restarting the modem. Recognizing the need for a robust solution, I presented a proposal to upper management to overhaul the IT infrastructure, which was approved and funded.

The project was executed in two phases:

Phase 1: Installation of enterprise-grade networking equipment throughout the facility, including multiple access points, network switches, firewalls, and VPNs.
Phase 2: Addition of more access points, installation of a server cabinet housing three new on-premises servers, and implementation of a fiber-optic backbone to connect Intermediate Distribution Frames (IDFs) to the newly created Main Distribution Frame (MDF).

Objective(s)

Design and Implement a Robust Network Architecture: Create a network from scratch to support enterprise-grade Wi-Fi networking, approximately 1 Gbps throughput for the command center video wall, office Ethernet lines, redundancy for on-premises servers, and capacity for rapid office expansion.
Enhance Network Security: Implement advanced network security measures to prevent cyber attacks and safeguard internal data.
Maximize Uptime: Achieve 99.9% or higher system uptime to minimize downtime and maximize worker productivity.

My Involvement

I led the project from inception to completion, personally handling almost all aspects of the work with minimal assistance from external vendors. My responsibilities included:

Project Planning and Design: Developed the network architecture plan, selecting appropriate hardware and technologies to meet current and future needs.
Installation and Configuration: Worked with internal team members to perform labor-intensive tasks such as mounting and assembling equipment racks. After physical installation, I configured and optimized the network devices for optimal performance.
VPN Deployment: Provisioned the company’s VPN, enabling remote work capabilities that are now heavily utilized by team members.
Security Implementation: Set up advanced security protocols, including firewalls and network monitoring tools, to protect against potential threats.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Resource Limitations: Managed the project with minimal help from external vendors, requiring efficient time management and multitasking.
Technical Complexity: Designed a network capable of handling high throughput demands and providing redundancy for critical systems.
Budget Constraints: Ensured the project stayed within reasonable budget limits while acquiring enterprise-grade equipment.

Solutions and Achievements

Successful Network Overhaul: Implemented a robust and scalable network infrastructure that met all the outlined objectives.
Improved Uptime: Achieved a system uptime of 99.5%, significantly reducing network outages and enhancing productivity.
Enhanced Security: Deployed advanced security measures that fortified the network against attacks.
Remote Work Enablement: The VPN deployment provided employees with greater flexibility to work remotely, improving overall job satisfaction.
Future-Proofing: The new infrastructure provides significant headroom for future business growth and rapid office expansion.

Outcome

The project, while slightly over budget, was a success on all fronts. System uptime drastically improved due to the implementation of backup power systems, redundant ISP links, and replicated virtual machine failovers. The new network infrastructure has minimized downtime and maximized worker productivity. Upper management expressed satisfaction with the outcome, acknowledging the project’s contribution to operational efficiency and its provision for future scalability.

Key Takeaway

By identifying critical infrastructure deficiencies and taking the initiative to address them, I was able to lead a comprehensive IT overhaul that significantly improved network reliability, security, and performance at Enexor. This project demonstrated my ability to manage complex technical projects, work resourcefully with limited assistance, and deliver solutions that have a lasting positive impact on the organization.

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Enexor

X-VENT Emergency Ventilator

Enexor

X-VENT Emergency Ventilator

Objective(s)

Design and Develop Touchscreen Interface: Create a user-friendly and reliable touchscreen interface for the X-VENT ventilator.
Rapid Skill Acquisition: Quickly learn new software, programming languages, and rapid development methodologies.
Understand Medical Industry Requirements: Acquire knowledge of medical terminology, design elements, and device capabilities pertinent to ventilator technology.

My Involvement

As the sole person assigned to develop the interface, I collaborated extensively with colleagues across various company functions to deliver the final product:

Software Mastery: Quickly dove into learning the programming software by collaborating with our industry partner and HMI manufacturer, Schneider Electric. This involved understanding a variation of the Java programming language specific to the hardware.
Simultaneous Development: Worked alongside the engineering team to coordinate device functionality while they developed the microprocessor logic.
Design Collaboration: Partnered with the marketing and design team to create meaningful and easy-to-use graphics, ensuring the interface was intuitive for medical professionals.
Meeting Rigorous Deadlines: Managed time effectively to meet the strict deadlines set by upper management for the product launch, often putting in overtime to ensure milestones were achieved.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Steep Learning Curve: Needed to rapidly learn new programming tools and medical industry concepts without formal training.
Simultaneous Multi-Team Coordination: Had to ensure that the touchscreen interface aligned perfectly with the microprocessor logic being developed concurrently by another team.
Extreme Deadlines: Operated under intense time pressure due to the urgent global need for ventilators.
Precision Communication: Required clear and precise communication across multiple teams to prevent any misunderstandings that could delay the project.

Solutions and Achievements

Rapid Skill Acquisition: Successfully mastered the new programming software and language in a short time frame, enabling me to begin development promptly.
Effective Collaboration: Maintained close coordination with engineering, marketing, and design teams to ensure all components of the ventilator functioned seamlessly together.
Timely Delivery: Met all critical deadlines, contributing to the timely launch of the X-VENT ventilator.
Real-World Impact: The touchscreen interface I developed is currently deployed on the X-VENT ventilator and is actively helping to save lives during the pandemic.

Outcome

Key Takeaway

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Enexor

X-VENT Operations Manual

Enexor

X-VENT Operations Manual

Because of Ty’s close involvement with the development of the X-VENT (read more here), Ty was tasked with creating the operations manual for the X-VENT from start to finish. With some help from a colleague in the marketing department, Ty was able to leverage his skills in Adobe InDesign to create a professional operations manual. The manual was distributed with every unit sold and plays a critical role in making sure customers are able to safely and effectively operate the equipment.

Objective(s)

Write a detailed guide for the safe and effective operation of the X-VENT.
Collaborate with marketing team to create a modern and cohesive design for the document.
Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to ensure all topics necessary for effective operation were included and information was accurate.

My Involvement

Ty was the project lead for the operations manual and was responsible for all of the copy located in the document with some input from the engineering and marketing teams. Because Ty was also the project lead for the Human Machine Interface for the X-VENT, he was extremely knowledgeable about the various aspects of operating the device and therefore was best positioned to complete this project. Once the copy writing was complete, Ty proceeded to work with a digital line artist to create the necessary images featured throughout the manual. Final editing and publishing was also handled by Ty directly.

Successes and Failures

The result was a clean and cohesive doument that covered all essential topics for safe and effective operation of the device. Some pain points of the project included communicating across multiple departments while still meeting the rigious deadlines set for the project. Overall Ty was able to overcome these challenges and complete the project in a timely mannor.

The Result

VIEW THE MANUAL

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Enexor

X-VENT Training

Enexor

X-VENT Training

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, our company pivoted to develop the X-VENT ventilator under a new division. I was tasked with leading the user training deployment for this critical medical device. Drawing inspiration from Tesla Motors’ Model 3 training videos, I set out to create a simple yet effective video series. The series consists of 21 training videos, each covering an essential aspect of operating and maintaining the X-VENT. Additionally, I collaborated with the Lead Respiratory Therapist at Enexor Health to gain approval for the training videos to count towards Continuing Education Units (CEUs), which are annual training credits required by many health professionals to maintain their certifications.

Objective(s)

Create Effective Training Videos: Develop simple, elegant, and informative training videos for the X-VENT ventilator.
Content Production: Script, film, and edit the videos to ensure clarity and engagement.
Build an Online Training Platform: Host the videos on a user-friendly platform, organize them into modules, track progress, and include quizzes to reinforce learning.
Accreditation: Obtain approval for the training to count towards CEU credits, adding value for healthcare professionals.

My Involvement

Leading the project with limited resources, I was responsible for:

Content Development: Collaborated with teammates to identify all necessary material required for new users to fully operate the X-VENT. This involved breaking down complex technical information into digestible 2-4 minute videos.
Scripting and Filming: Wrote scripts for each of the 21 narrated videos. Filmed the required clips, including instructional footage and B-roll for introductions and conclusions.
Video Editing: Edited all videos, which included arranging clips, equalizing audio, adding animations, and creating graphical elements to enhance understanding.
Platform Development: Researched and selected an online training platform to host the videos. Organized the content into modules, implemented progress tracking, and integrated quizzes to assess comprehension.
Accreditation Process: Worked with the Lead Respiratory Therapist to gain approval for the training program to qualify for CEU credits.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Tight Deadlines: Faced rigorous deadlines while balancing existing responsibilities, requiring efficient time management and prioritization.
Resource Constraints: Operated with limited resources, necessitating a hands-on approach to all aspects of the project.
Shifting Priorities: Dealt with changing directives from upper management, leading to delays and requiring adaptability.

Solutions and Achievements

Efficient Workflow: Established a streamlined process for scripting, filming, and editing to maximize productivity within the tight timeline.
Quality Content Delivery: Completed the entire video series within four weeks, ensuring high-quality production despite the expedited schedule.
Accredited Training Program: Successfully obtained approval for the videos to count towards CEU credits, enhancing the training’s credibility and appeal to healthcare professionals.
User-Friendly Platform: Built an online training platform that effectively hosts the videos, tracks user progress, and assesses comprehension through quizzes.

The Result

The project was a success, resulting in a comprehensive training program for the X-VENT ventilator. The video series and online platform have been well-received, providing essential training to healthcare professionals during a critical time. The accredited program not only educates users on operating the X-VENT but also contributes to their professional development through CEU credits.

VIEW TRAINING MATERIALS

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ACU, Events

Wildcat Week Concert

ACU, Events

Wildcat Week Concert

Objective(s)

Select a Relevant Artist: Choose a headlining artist who would appeal to a wide demographic of attendees, including first-year students, current students, and alumni.
Create a Festival Atmosphere: Develop a “festival-style” environment to foster community engagement and keep attendees entertained throughout the event.
Unite the Campus Community: Bring together current students and alumni to celebrate and welcome the incoming freshman class.

My Involvement

I was directly responsible for every facet of the concert, including:

Artist and Venue Selection: Collaborated with university leadership to choose a suitable artist and venue that aligned with our objectives and budget.
Vendor Coordination: Managed relationships with vendors for staging, audio/visual equipment, and other event necessities.
Budgeting and Fundraising: Developed and managed the event budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness while delivering a high-quality experience.
Marketing and Branding: Worked with ACU’s Creative Services division to develop a marketing plan and promotional materials.
Event Execution: Oversaw all logistical aspects leading up to and during the event to ensure a seamless experience.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Venue Crisis: Two days before the event, a pipe burst at our planned outdoor venue, rendering it unusable.
Time Constraints: The last-minute venue change required rapid coordination and problem-solving under extreme time pressure.
Logistical Complexity: Coordinating between multiple vendors, university departments, and the artist’s team to ensure all requirements were met.

Solutions and Achievements

Emergency Venue Relocation: Anticipating potential issues, I had previously identified a backup venue and developed a contingency plan. Within 24 hours of the crisis, I coordinated with all parties to relocate the event seamlessly.
Effective Communication: Maintained clear and prompt communication with vendors, university officials, the artist’s management, and my team to ensure everyone was aligned despite the sudden changes.
Enhanced Event Experience:
- Social Media Engagement: Organized a creative artist reveal on social media, dropping hints throughout the day leading up to a live announcement on Twitter and Instagram.
- VIP Meet and Greet: Arranged an exclusive opportunity for students to meet Jesse McCartney, increasing excitement and engagement.
- Professional A/V Production: Collaborated with 83 Entertainment, a local production company, to deliver high-quality audio/visual setups, including an IMAG package, lighting, and staging per the artist’s requirements.

The Result

High Attendance: Attracted over 3,000 attendees, surpassing previous years’ numbers.
Community Building: Successfully united first-year students, current students, and alumni, fostering a strong sense of community.
Positive Feedback: Received overwhelmingly positive responses from attendees, university leadership, and the artist’s team.
Achievement of Objectives: Met all goals outlined for the event, enhancing school spirit and setting a new standard for future Wildcat Week concerts.

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Enexor

Enexor Health Website

Enexor

Enexor Health Website

Ty was tasked with creating www.enexorhealth.com for Enexor’s new Health and Medical devices division. Ty used the existing www.enexor.com template, designed by web marketing firm DesignUps, and made various design and coding changes to meet the requirements of the new division. This also enabled Enexor to keep a consistent brand image among its various corporate offerings.

The Result

VIEW THE SITE

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Enexor

Studio X

Enexor

Studio X

When the COVID-19 pandemic upended normal business practices, Ty was tasked with creating an industry-leading, virtual meeting studio. Dubbed “Studio X”, the project featured professional broadcasting software, high definition video feeds, studio-quality lighting, and high-quality audio. The end result – a professional studio with the ability to stream directly into virtual zoom meetings for client meetings and product demonstrations.

Objective(s)

Create an industry-leading broadcasting studio for client meetings and sales demos.
Integrate with popular video applications like Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
Demonstrate flexibility for use with other internal applications such as live product training sessions and investor pitch meetings.

My Involvement

Ty was given a blank canvas to build a world-class Zoom studio. Using an existing office, Ty was responsible for collaborating with vendors and connecting systems to convert the space into a high-quality virtual meeting facility. Ty sourced and integrated all of the hardware required to make the system function. Additionally, Ty used custom integrations to connect systems and ultimately craft a seamless product. This included connecting audio/visual systems to one another and linking studio software to the Zoom meeting platform.

Successes and Failures

The project was a success, with clients frequently complementing the quality of the virtual interactions. Upper management was extremely satisfied with the outcome of the project, which came in slightly under budget. As of the time of writing, 30+ virtual demos had been completed with current and future clients.

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ACU, Events

ACU Paint Fest

ACU, Events

ACU Paint Fest

ACU Paint Fest was an event held by The Cabinet (Campus Activities Board) a campus-sponsored, student leadership group with a mission to increase student involvement and retention through free university-sponsored events. Ty joined The Cabinet during its first, post-pilot launch year. This presented unique challenges as there were not many established event ideas, and creativity among team members was of the utmost importance. Of the 8 Cabinet staff members, each was responsible for approximately two campus events. Ty chose to take on the largest event of the Spring 2018 semester dubbed “ACU Paint Fest”.

Objective(s)

Create a fun and exciting event that will lead to record breaking attendance for a unviersity sponsered function.
Promote brand awareness and form brand identity for The Cabinet in its first debut year as a campus organization.
Increase student involvement and retenition.

My Involvement

Ty was the student director placed in charge of ACU Paint Fest. By far the largest event of the organization’s short history, Ty was responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of this highly sought after event. By far one of the most challenging aspects of this event was marketing. Trying to promote an event on campus was already a significant challenge faced by many on-campus organizations. To make matters worse, The Cabinet had a lackluster social media following due to its novel status as an on-campus organization. Ty was also responsible for the event logistics including venue selection and preparation, vendor management, audio/visual coordination, and event security.

Successes and Failures

The event was a tremendous success on many fronts. Over 900 students attended the event, exceeding the target attendance of 500. The event helped The Cabinet gain a significant following among the student body and helped build the brand of the organization. Although hard to measure from a single event, student engagement and retention was up at the end of the semester as reported by the Office of Student Life. Feedback from students was extremely positive and many asked for the event to return to campus again. Among the things that needed improvement was the smell of the paint and the cleanup procedures.

The Result

Members of ‘The Cabinet’ take a photo in front of a large crowd of students at ACU Paint Fest

Students covered in paint, enjoy themselves as the music plays.

Students pose for a photo covered in paint at ACU Paint Fest.

Students take selfies from the event to share on social media.

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ACU

March Madness – Watch Party

ACU

March Madness – Watch Party

For the first time in school history, both the Men’s and Women’s basketball teams at Abilene Christian University (ACU) qualified for the NCAA Division I Basketball Tournament, known as “The Big Dance.” Recognizing this historic achievement, I took the initiative to host one of the largest watch parties in the university’s history. Just three years after ACU transitioned to Division I, this event marked a new era for ACU Athletics and was designed to celebrate this milestone accordingly. The watch party united faculty, staff, students, and alumni from across the nation and recorded one of the highest basketball-specific attendances in university history.

Objective(s)

Celebrate Athletic Achievement: Create an exciting atmosphere that honors the success of the ACU Men’s and Women’s basketball teams.
Rapid Coordination: Collaborate with internal and external teams to organize a large-scale event in less than one week.
Promote School Spirit and Awareness: Enhance school spirit while increasing awareness of ACU Athletics’ new Division I status.
Secure Funding: Obtain donations from alumni, athletic sponsors, and other avenues to finance the event.

My Involvement

With less than a week to plan, I worked tirelessly to coordinate all aspects of this massive event:

Event Planning and Coordination: Collaborated with athletics, marketing, and facilities staff to develop a comprehensive execution plan.
Vendor Management: Engaged internal and external vendors for services such as audio-visual equipment, merchandise, and catering.
High-Profile Engagements: Invited prominent speakers, including the city mayor and the university president, to enhance the event’s significance.
Marketing and Promotion:
- Organized a social media giveaway to send two lucky students to attend the game in person in Florida, boosting engagement and increasing followers on the university’s Instagram account (@acuedu).
- Coordinated with ACU’s Creative Services to develop promotional materials and a marketing campaign.
Logistics Management:
- Arranged for limited-edition T-shirts to be rush printed and distributed to the first 500 attendees to encourage turnout.
- Oversaw the projection of the game on a massive 40-foot screen, incorporating high-energy segments during commercial breaks.
Live Streaming: Partnered with ACUTV to live-stream the event on Facebook, allowing distant alumni and supporters to participate virtually.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Time Constraints: Orchestrated a large-scale event with less than a week for planning and execution.
Resource Mobilization: Secured necessary funding, merchandise, and technical equipment on an accelerated timeline.
Cross-Departmental Coordination: Ensured seamless collaboration among various university departments and external partners under tight deadlines.

Solutions and Achievements

Efficient Planning: Prioritized tasks and utilized effective communication to coordinate with all stakeholders swiftly.
Successful Fundraising: Obtained donations from alumni donors and athletic sponsors, fully funding the event without exceeding the budget.
Record Attendance: Achieved one of the largest basketball-related event attendances in university history, with over 3,000 participants.
Enhanced Engagement: Increased social media following and engagement through strategic promotions and live-streaming efforts.
Strengthened Community: Unified students, faculty, staff, and alumni in a shared celebration, boosting school spirit and pride in ACU Athletics.

The Result

The watch party was a monumental success, receiving exceptional feedback from attendees and university leadership. It not only celebrated a historic moment for ACU Athletics but also fostered a newfound unity within the ACU community. The event set a precedent for future athletic celebrations and contributed to elevating the university’s profile on a national stage.

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ACU, SGA

Bird + ACU

ACU, SGA

Bird + ACU

After being elected President of the Student Body at Abilene Christian University, Ty spent the summer working on a strategy for the upcoming academic year. One of the projects Ty was working on during this time was a partnership with Bird Scooters. The project was a phased introduction of Bird Scotters to ACU’s campus.

Objective(s)

Increase sustainable transportation options on campus.
Provide affordable transportation options for international students who may not have a vehicle.
Reduce carbon emissions.
Allevivate strain on on-campus parking lots.
Create an external revenue source for the Student Governemt Associaition

My Involvement

ACU was the first university to sign an official partnership with Bird scooters. Ty oversaw project approval from upper administration within the university, including The Office of Student Life, The Office of The President, Facilities Management, and University Operations.

Successes and Failures

The project started off a massive success. Within just 4 months, Bird + ACU had eliminated over 15,270 pounds of CO2, sent riders 17,144 miles across
Abilene, and prevented countless tradies in classes. It also offered flexibility to international students and students living in near-by off-campus housing. The partnership generated close to $10,000 of revenue for SGA, which was used to help fund student organizations and campus activities. Unfortunately, after a rough winter season, Bird decided to put a hold on operations and ultimately decided not to return to Abilene without clear reasoning. The best guess for the retreat was the lackluster performance tied to the small population of the Abilene community and the harsh winter conditions that lasted many months.

The Result

Students absolutely loved Bird while it was on campus and it helped generate the first-ever external revenue source for ACU’s Student Government Association. At the time of writing, a new group of students tied to an on-campus entrepreneurship group has initiated another partnership with Bird, and will now deploy a new fleet of scooters on campus, owned by the new venture.

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ACU, SGA

ACU SGA Fall Report

ACU, SGA

ACU SGA Fall Report

Objective(s)

Inform Stakeholders: Update faculty and students on SGA’s progress throughout the semester.
Set Future Expectations: Establish clear goals and expectations for the upcoming semester.
Highlight Achievements: Showcase the accomplishments of the Student Congress and provide an overview of pending legislation.

My Involvement

As the leader of a team of seven Executive Cabinet members, I oversaw the creation of the Fall Semester Report. Specifically:

Team Leadership: Directed the communications team, which included a Press Secretary and a Marketing Director.
Strategic Planning: Outlined the objectives for the report, emphasizing the need for a professional and visually engaging document.
Collaboration: Worked closely with the communications team to ensure the report accurately reflected our achievements and future goals.

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Tight Deadlines: Faced unrealistic deadlines that put pressure on the team and the quality of the final product.
Communication Hiccups: Experienced miscommunications that led to a rushed final editing process and insufficient proofing.

Solutions and Achievements

Professional Deliverable: Despite challenges, the communications team produced a professional, concise, and informative report.
Stakeholder Engagement: Successfully distributed the report to the SLT and presented it to the University President, enhancing transparency and accountability.
Lessons Learned: Conducted a post-project debrief to address the issues faced, leading to improved communication strategies and more realistic deadline setting for future projects.

The Result

VIEW THE REPORT

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ACU, SGA

KJ4SGA Campaign

ACU, SGA

KJ4SGA Campaign

Objective(s)

Unite the Student Body: Create a deliberate, exciting, and substantive campaign that brings together students from all classifications.
Effective Communication: Clearly convey our campaign vision to the student body and engage students from diverse backgrounds to support and participate in the campaign.
Secure the Presidency: Win the Student Body President position at Abilene Christian University.
Assemble a Dedicated Team: Recruit a driven team of individuals to serve as cabinet members and assist in executing our campaign platform.
Fulfill Campaign Promises: Execute all goals and promises made during the campaign to the best of our ability.

My Involvement

Successes and Failures

Challenges

Limited Experience: Overcame the disadvantage of having less SGA experience compared to the incumbent.
Misinformation Campaign: Addressed and countered false information circulated during the election.
Uniting Diverse Groups: Worked to bring together students from various classifications and demographics.
Resource Management: Balanced academic responsibilities with the demands of an intensive campaign.

The Result

Successful Campaign Execution: Ran a compelling campaign that resonated with a wide range of students, leading to electoral victory.
Effective Team Building: Assembled an Executive Cabinet to help achieve SGA’s goals and initiatives.
Fulfilled Promises: Delivered on nearly all campaign promises through hard work and collaborative efforts.
Advocacy: Ensured student voices were heard on controversial issues, including university policies affecting same-sex relationships.
Organizational Improvements:
- Constitutional Overhaul: Rewrote the SGA constitution and bylaws, hosting a constitutional convention for significant amendments.
- SGA Week: Launched a major marketing initiative to boost student interest and involvement in SGA and promote congress elections.
- Judicial Branch Addition: Established a judicial branch to oversee legislation and student disciplinary matters.
- Budget Allocation Tool: Developed an automated spreadsheet to fairly calculate funding for student organizations.
- Congressional Seats Filled: Nearly all congressional seats were filled—a first in over four years.
Campus Enhancements:
- Bird Scooters Partnership: Introduced Bird Scooters to campus, the company’s first university partnership, generating external revenue for SGA.
- Accessibility Improvements: Upgraded doors in high-traffic areas to enhance accessibility and efficiency.
Community Building:
- “LitMas” Tradition: Initiated a new campus event uniting students before the holiday break.
- March Madness Watch Party: Celebrated the men’s and women’s basketball teams’ NCAA tournament appearances with a campus-wide event.
- Collaboration with Campus Organizations: Partnered with the Campus Activities Board and New Student Programs to host events that brought together diverse student groups.
- “Join Week” Program: Encouraged students to get involved with campus organizations through a new initiative at the start of the fall semester.
Athletics Support:
- Tailgating and Contests: Supported social clubs in participating in athletic events.
- Scholarships and Prizes: Distributed $3,000 in scholarships and other incentives to boost attendance at on-campus sporting events.
- Discounted Game Tickets: Provided 200 discounted tickets to the football season opener against Baylor University.

Key Takeaway

Quote from The Optimist editorial board:

We applauded their unity as a team and believe they lived up to expectations this year, and exceeded what their platform a year ago had to offer.

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