I built my first computer when I was 12 years old and another shortly before college. I was the only college student I knew of with a computer, and my dorm room became the de facto “pull an all-nighter” computer lab for my wing of the dorm. I studied computer science at UCSB, worked for the Micro-Computer Lab on campus, engineering research, and accounting firms in a systems administration capacity. In 1996, I partnered and founded Synergy Computing, and in 2000, I became Certified Consulting; the one-stop outsourced IT department for small businesses in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, providing quality solutions and services at reasonable prices. Somewhere in the middle, life happened. I have two glorious daughters and a lovely and tolerant wife. Thirty-five years of IT services later, I am on the cusp of retirement, having merged with CITIG, a like-minded IT company with many brilliant engineers and supportive staff.
As a young man growing up in Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley, my life changed the day my dad brought home Lisa (Apple, Macintosh), who ignited my passion, some say obsession with computers. My parents were not thrilled with the daily struggle prying me away from this enthralling new addition to the household. The symptoms progressed over the years to where I was constantly pulled from coursework to assist with IT support for my High School. I continued to develop and expand my IT knowledge at SBCC, studying Computer Networking / Engineering and Multimedia Arts / Technologies while working full-time as a Technician and On-Site Manager for MacMechanic for 6 years before moving on to Santa Barbara IT Group as the Project Manager and Senior Technician for 11 years prior to joining the CITIG team. Outside the office, you’ll find me: performing alchemy in my kitchen, ocean kayaking with my significant other. at the gym, fiddling inside an old arcade cabinet, or collecting vintage video games at the local swap meet.
I caught the technology bug after learning to program small robots in my high school mechatronic class and have been working to expand my knowledge ever since. Beginning with my first job in computer repair and learning new skills, I began laying the foundation of my IT career. I have deepened my love of technology. I have earned my Network+ and Security+ certifications and remain passionate about learning and expanding my technological skills. When I am not working on technology, you can find me in the Los Padres National Forest with my dogs or traversing the paths in Summoners Rift.
I have had an interest in technology since my freshman year at Foothill Technology High School, where I was introduced to digital media arts and communications. After high school, I found a love of cooking, the brewing process, and craft cocktails. I attended culinary school at SBCC and worked as a bartender in several Santa Barbara bars. I ended up in various roles at the Figueroa Mountain Brew Company for 9 years, ending as the General Manager. I decided to change directions and dive back into technology when CITIG offered me an opportunity to learn on the job and join the incredible team that truly cares about customer service and client relationships. When I’m not working, you will find me surfing, kayaking, hiking, and enjoying the social hours downtown with friends.
Born and raised in Oxnard, CA, I moved to Santa Barbara in 2009 to attend UCSB, where I studied Mathematical Sciences. Following graduation, I decided to stay here and began looking for work. On discovering a Craigslist job ad asking, “Interested in getting your CCNA?” and no additional info., I web searched what a CCNA was and responded back to the ad. Since then, I have become completely engulfed in the IT world and love constantly learning about it. That ad opened the door to work at a local IT Hardware Reselling company as a Network Presales Engineer with additional experience in Professional Services and Third-Party Maintenance for 5 years. As a Certified Cisco Network Associate, I enjoy helping customers and look forward to delivering rock-star service to all CITIG clients.
From a young age, I had an affinity for computers and all things tech. In middle school, I started a business jailbreaking peers’ iPhones and iPods and required them to sign an exclusion of liability contract. After moving to Southern California to study Computer Science, I became a founding member of the computer science club at SDSU. Having been involved in these various communities from a young age, I built a solid foundation allowing me to turn my hobbies into a career. I now reside in Santa Barbara, where I plan to stay for many years as a proud member of the CITIG team.
As a Santa Barbara native and proud UCSB alum, I feel right at home at CITIG’s downtown Santa Barbara office. As the Administrative Manager, I take pride in overseeing a wide range of responsibilities to keep our day-to-day operations running smoothly and our client relationships strong. I thrive on the variety each day brings, focusing on contributing to the success of our team and our clients. When I’m not managing the many moving pieces at CITIG, you can find me at the Pilates studio, out on the water, or spending time with my family, friends, and two energetic labs.
Ever since moving to the USA from England in 1989, I have worked as a software consultant supporting clients throughout the South Coast. Prior to joining CITIG, I worked in programming, analysis, customer service, and end-user training, and I was a consultant with Van Buren Consulting for 25 years. I am a Sage Timeslips Certified Consultant qualified to handle all your billing needs. From installation to a conclusion, I will customize the time and billing system best for you, whether it be mailing bills, PDF bills to email to clients or electronic billing. I also offer customization of Microsoft Office and training in both Word and Outlook.
Oliva may seem quiet, but she has the ear of the CEO when advising and making big decisions. She is a natural born leader, who enjoys performing daring aerial maneuvers and all extramural, seasonal activities, when not attending to the educational requirements for further advancement.
Navy works hard establishing connected networks of carbon neutral transportation systems, and dismantling them in the most dramatic scenarios. While typically working remotely, he brings high energy and a quick laugh to the office on special occasions.
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