Christopher Salyer
Christiansburg,VA
Summary
Lead Systems Engineer with 15+ years of experience designing, deploying, and managing enterprise IT infrastructure. Proven record in automation, systems engineering, cybersecurity, and technical leadership. Expert in optimizing operations, strengthening compliance (NIST 800-171), and driving modernization through PowerShell automation, virtualization, and endpoint management.
Results-driven IT leader focused on leveraging technology to drive business success. Skilled in strategic planning, cybersecurity, and project management with strong emphasis on team collaboration and adaptability. Proven track record in optimizing systems, managing complex projects, and ensuring operational efficiency. Recognized for leadership, problem-solving, and aligning IT initiatives with organizational goals.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Systems Engineer
Hume Center for National Security and Technology – Virginia Tech
02.2025 - 10.2025
- Designed and implemented automated OS deployment for all Windows workstations using Endpoint Central.
- Deployed ManageEngine Endpoint Central for 425+ devices, improving patch reliability.
- Mentored junior engineers, fostering skill advancement and promoting collaborative problem-solving approaches.
- Reduced downtime through proactive maintenance and diligent troubleshooting of system components.
- Delivered high-quality documentation detailing system architecture, specifications, and operating procedures for end-users as well as technical staff members.
- Championed security initiatives that strengthened network defenses against cyber threats while complying with regulatory guidelines and industry best practices.
- Developed custom scripts and tools to automate routine tasks, increasing team productivity levels.
- Completed software updates and assessed security patches for optimized computer use.
Director of Information Technology
Wurth Industry USA Inc.
05.2019 - 02.2025
- Directed multi-site IT operations supporting ERP (Prophet 21) and enterprise systems.
- Led full network modernization including WAN redesign, FortiGate firewalls, virtualization, and storage solutions.
- Built and mentored a high-performing IT team; introduced structured documentation and KPI tracking.
- Managed integration of three acquired locations, onboarding 80+ employees with zero downtime.
- Implemented DRaaS and XDR solutions, strengthening disaster recovery and endpoint resilience.
- Championed KnowBe4 Security Awareness Training to reduce phishing risk and elevate security culture.
- Directed cybersecurity initiatives, significantly reducing potential threats and vulnerabilities.
- Managed vendor relationships to optimize technology procurement and service delivery.
- Spearheaded digital transformation projects that improved data management and accessibility.
- Mentored IT staff, fostering professional growth and enhancing team performance.
- Developed and enforced IT policies ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Implemented and maintained technology and software budget.
IT Systems Administrator
Wurth Industry USA Inc.
12.2017 - 05.2019
- Engineered and deployed new MDT, ManageEngine Desktop Central, SelfService Plus ITSM, Log360 environments.
- Implimented NIST 800-171/DFARS-compliant infrastructure.
- Deployed cisco access point with 802.1x security for wireless warehouse printing.
- Replace analog phone system with VoIP reducing cost by 60% monthly.
- Managed system updates and patches to ensure optimal performance and security compliance using Endpoint Central.
- Configured and maintained network infrastructure, enhancing connectivity across multiple locations. (Fortigate, Extreme, FortiSwitches, and Cisco)
- Implemented Veeam backup procedures to safeguard critical data and minimize downtime risks.
Desktop Support Technician II
Virginia Tech
12.2016 - 08.2017
- Built multi-platform imaging system (MDT + FOG for Windows, macOS, Ubuntu).
- Migrated domain controllers to Windows Server 2016 R2.
- Deployed FortiGate firewall replacing legacy Cisco ASA.
- Provided technical support for hardware and software issues, ensuring minimal downtime for users.
- Diagnosed and resolved desktop-related problems, enhancing overall system performance and user satisfaction.
- Managed inventory of computer hardware and peripherals, ensuring optimal resource allocation and availability.
- Purchased, setup and installed new computers.
IT Support Analyst
Wolverine Advanced Materials
06.2016 - 12.2016
- Provided end-user and infrastructure support during domain and email migration projects.
- Deployed systems using SCCM.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
Support Representative
DENPRO
08.2015 - 06.2016
- Managed Active Directory, DNS, and virtualization (vSphere).
- Assisted in virus containment and network remediation efforts.
- Documented and tracked support tickets using CRM systems to ensure timely follow-up and resolution.
- Developed comprehensive knowledge base articles for common issues, streamlining support operations.
- Conducted regular reviews of support tickets to identify patterns and opportunities for optimization.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers to enhance customer satisfaction.
IT Specialist
Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority
02.2012 - 03.2015
- Monitored backups and ensured high job success rates.
- Implemented IT solutions to enhance operational efficiency and streamline workflows.
- Conducted regular system maintenance to minimize downtime and optimize performance across network infrastructure.
- Configured hardware, devices, and software to set up work stations for employees.
- Managed hardware and software inventory, ensuring timely updates and replacements as needed.
- Walked individuals through basic troubleshooting tasks.
- Led migration projects to modernize legacy systems without disrupting daily operations or compromising security standards.
- Collaborated closely with other departments to provide tailored technology solutions that addressed their specific needs or challenges.
- Configured and tested new software and hardware.
- Created user accounts and assigned permissions.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Computer Science & Software Studies
UVA College At Wise
Wise, VAGeneral Studies
New River Community College
Dublin, VASkills
- Automation tools
- Data center management
- System testing
- Process documentation
- Incident management
- Capacity planning
- Windows server management
- Switches and routers
- Network infrastructure administration
- Virtualization technologies
- Configuration management
- Network administration
- IT risk management
- IT incident management
- IT compliance
- IT change control
- IT policy development
- IT governance
- Enterprise architecture
- Equipment procurement
- Staff hiring
- End point configurations
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Project management
- User support
- Root-cause analysis
- Network security
- Helpdesk operations
- Firewalls
Timeline
Lead Systems Engineer
Hume Center for National Security and Technology – Virginia Tech
02.2025 - 10.2025
Director of Information Technology
Wurth Industry USA Inc.
05.2019 - 02.2025
IT Systems Administrator
Wurth Industry USA Inc.
12.2017 - 05.2019
Desktop Support Technician II
Virginia Tech
12.2016 - 08.2017
IT Support Analyst
Wolverine Advanced Materials
06.2016 - 12.2016
Support Representative
DENPRO
08.2015 - 06.2016
IT Specialist
Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority
02.2012 - 03.2015
Some College (No Degree) - Computer Science & Software Studies
UVA College At Wise
General Studies
New River Community College