Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Awards
Training
Job Related Training Courses
Security Clearance
References
Timeline
Generic

Avon Spearman

Frederick,United States

Summary

Accomplished Configuration Management Specialist with a proven track record at the Department of Defense (Army), expertly blending technical skills in software configuration and stakeholder communication. Spearheaded comprehensive Configuration Management frameworks, significantly enhancing program efficiency and risk management. Skilled in leveraging DevOps principles and ITIL framework to drive strategic initiatives and achieve organizational objectives.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience

Work History

Sr. Configuration Management Engineer

Department of Defense (Army)
Aberdeen Proving Ground, United States
12.2013 - 09.2024
  • Support the CM Specialist, lead in developing and executing the complete Configuration Management framework, encompassing the identification and documentation of controlled objects, and the capture and recording of relevant information.
  • The integrated master schedule, which includes distinct milestones, is designed to supply precise and timely information regarding the program's schedule, as well as its performance across the whole life cycle of the program.
  • Uses a project milestone review template provided by the government to carry out the project.
  • Uses applied principles of risk management, which helps to reduce the risks associated with the program and/or the project, and which places a particular emphasis on the software development activities by integrating metrics to monitor the state of the program.
  • Communicates change management processes that include participation from all the major stakeholders.
  • Reporting the status of the project to the government on a weekly basis, or more frequently if it is judged necessary.
  • Ensure accurate identification of configuration items at the baseline, conduct regular audits, and verify the configuration items released in each version.
  • Creates, sustains, and executes configuration management (CM) process standards, plans, and procedures.
  • Ensures that any modifications to the process methods and procedures are appropriately authorized, effectively communicated, and efficiently controlled throughout the whole lifespan of configuration management.
  • Keeps track of accounting information to ensure correct determination of current and past product configurations throughout the product life cycle
  • Monitors and documents any issues and modifications in product documentation and reports the current configuration and any changes made
  • Engages in CCB/TRB teams and attends meetings with management and other functional groups to acquire information and approvals for the release of configuration items, drawings, and software configuration modifications, as required.
  • Support the CM Specialist, and lead in developing, overseeing, and updating the Configuration Management Plan for each individual project.
  • Assess the extent and intricacy of a project
  • Assess the work of others to ascertain the precision and sufficiency of identified conditions, criteria, suggestions, and supporting documents
  • Formulate strategic plans to achieve predetermined objectives, both in the short and long term
  • Formulate and implementing policies and procedures
  • Assess the requirements of the firm and executing efficient strategies to address them economically
  • Aide in the identification of optimal design for data structures, software applications, and equipment interfaces
  • Evaluate emerging technological advancements
  • Performed regular backups of critical data associated with managed systems as part of disaster recovery planning efforts.
  • Generated scripts for automating routine maintenance tasks related to configuration management.
  • Designed and conducted hardware or software systems testing.
  • Maintained accurate records of all changes made to system components over time.
  • Coordinated with vendors regarding compatibility issues between their products and existing systems.
  • Monitored security patching levels on all systems under control of the configuration management team.
  • Provided status updates to keep upper management informed and to reach goals.
  • Collaborated with development teams to define processes for tracking product versions throughout the life cycle of a project.
  • Implemented automated tools for managing system configurations across multiple environments.
  • Developed and maintained configuration management plans for assigned projects.
  • Communicated with clients to understand system requirements.
  • Administered application stacks and executed performance tuning to optimize session performance by eliminating performance bottlenecks.
  • Tracked changes made to application and infrastructure components in production systems.
  • Ensured compliance with industry regulations regarding data privacy and security standards.
  • Coordinated and enhanced existing databases and established new databases as part of initiative.
  • Led cross-functional teams in systems integration projects.
  • Developed system models using automated tools to analyze performance under various operating conditions.
  • Ensured that any changes made to applications or infrastructure were properly documented in accordance with best practices.
  • Planned, implemented, and integrated updated system-oriented projects.
  • Developed custom tools for monitoring system performance and detecting potential problems with configurations.
  • Resolved conflicts between different versions of configuration files in multiple environments.
  • Provided technical support to users experiencing issues with system configurations or deployments.
  • Evaluated emerging technology factors around cost comparison, portability or usability.
  • Managed software licenses across multiple platforms and ensured compliance with vendor agreements.
  • Handled troubleshooting tasks for Local Area Networks, Wide Area Networks, and voice systems to reduce network connectivity problems.
  • Tested new releases prior to deployment into production environments using various scripting languages such as PowerShell, Bash.
  • Performed periodic audits of hardware, software, and network configurations to identify discrepancies.
  • Provided exemplary helpdesk service and support to assist customers.
  • Provided technical guidance for system development and troubleshooting.
  • Analyzed customer requirements to ensure proper implementation of the change management process.
  • Advised on project costs, concepts or design changes.
  • Built and oversaw network infrastructure comprised of various virtual products.
  • Conducted root cause analysis when problems arose due to improper configuration settings or upgrades.
  • Created systems for deployment by military in remote locations.
  • Verified stability, security and scalability of system architecture.
  • Designed and delivered mission-critical infrastructure to maintain consistent availability and performance.
  • Configured servers and networks according to established standards and guidelines.
  • Recorded systems information and documented design specifications and installation instructions.
  • Defined technical integration strategy and developed integration plans.
  • Assisted developers in troubleshooting errors caused by incorrect configurations or settings.
  • Created detailed reports on configuration items, including version numbers and release dates.
  • Utilized Python to handle debugging and automation scripting tasks.
  • Conducted system analysis and testing to identify and resolve technical issues or inefficiencies.
  • Completed routine maintenance and repair.
  • Approached customers and engaged in conversation through use of effective interpersonal and people skills.
  • Identified needs of customers promptly and efficiently.
  • Utilized advanced technical skills and expertise to troubleshoot complex problems and implement solutions.
  • Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
  • Exceeded customer satisfaction by finding creative solutions to problems.
  • Worked effectively in team environments to make the workplace more productive.
  • Assisted with customer requests and answered questions to improve satisfaction.
  • Collaborated closely with team members to achieve project objectives and meet deadlines.
  • Updated and maintained databases with current information.
  • Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
  • Operated equipment and machinery according to safety guidelines.
  • Provided excellent service and attention to customers when face-to-face or through phone conversations.
  • Achieved cost-savings by developing functional solutions to problems.
  • Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.
  • Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
  • Managed inventory and supplies to ensure materials were available when needed.
  • Recognized by management for providing exceptional customer service.

Internal Revenue Service
Lanham, United States
02.2007 - 12.2013

Social Security Administration
Woodlawn, United States
06.2002 - 02.2007

Education

M.P.S. - Technology Management

University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC)
05-2024

Skills

  • Windows
  • Mac OS
  • LINUX
  • Solaris
  • Java
  • C
  • SQL
  • Rational Software Architect
  • Eclipse
  • Rational Application Developer
  • Oracle
  • J2EE
  • JavaScript
  • IBM Web Sphere
  • Web logic Portal Server
  • Web logic Integration Server
  • Data Power
  • Apache Tomcat
  • SOAP
  • Struts
  • Hibernate
  • Spring
  • SQL Server
  • DB2
  • TOAD
  • Rational Clear Case
  • Visual Source Safe
  • IBM InfoSphere
  • Data/Quality/Profile stages
  • System administration
  • Application support
  • Training and mentoring
  • Source code management
  • Virtualization technologies
  • Software configuration
  • Software licensing
  • Deployment strategies
  • DevOps principles
  • Configuration auditing
  • Release management
  • Configuration management
  • Infrastructure management
  • Security compliance
  • Scripting languages
  • Asset management
  • Requirements analysis
  • Software testing
  • Stakeholder communication
  • Incident management
  • Continuous deployment
  • ITIL framework
  • Hardware configuration
  • Software development lifecycle
  • Disaster recovery
  • Version control
  • Change control
  • Capacity planning
  • Software packaging
  • Network configuration
  • Continuous integration

Awards

Commendable Act or Service Award, 05/01/04

Training

  • Initial Development & Support Training
  • Aurora Technical Training
  • Time & Leave Training
  • Claims Clerk Examiner Training
  • HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems)

Job Related Training Courses

2024, CyberNow Labs - CompTIA Security + (Cybersecurity)

Security Clearance

  • PUBLIC TRUST
  • CONFIDENTIAL

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Sr. Configuration Management Engineer

Department of Defense (Army)
12.2013 - 09.2024

Internal Revenue Service
02.2007 - 12.2013

Social Security Administration
06.2002 - 02.2007

M.P.S. - Technology Management

University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC)
Avon Spearman