L. Darnell Ford Jr.
Everett
Summary
I am a dynamic Senior Systems Engineer with over 10 years of experience in the IT sector, including more than 5 years focused on configuring, deploying, and maintaining access control and video management systems. I can be described as a self-motivated professional who thrives in collaborative environments and is adept at translating complex technical concepts into clear communications for stakeholders with diverse technical backgrounds. I am committed to driving innovation and efficiency in security system implementations while fostering strong relationships with clients and team members.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Sr. Systems Engineer (Physical security)
Cochran Inc.
Seattle, WA
05.2024 - Current
Systems Engineer (Physical security)
Cochran Inc.
Seattle, WA
05.2020 - 01.2024
- Oversaw installation, configuration, commissioning, and maintenance of access control, video management, and intrusion systems.
- Collaborated with clients to determine need and devise appropriate software and hardware solutions.
- Performed root cause analysis to provide resolutions for production issues.
- Troubleshot hardware components to identify root causes of malfunctions, reducing equipment downtime substantially.
- Trained and mentored junior engineers, providing guidance and direction.
- Projects worked/systems maintained range from small systems (1-20 doors/cameras/intercoms) to large systems (600+ doors/cameras/intercoms) including maintaining multi-site systems.
- Facilitated coordination with stakeholders during installation, commissioning, and maintenance phases.
- Developed and delivered comprehensive training programs for end users and system administrators to enhance system utilization.
- Supported estimating manager and senior project manager in pre-sales activities to enhance project acquisition.
- Evaluated emerging access control and video management products and technologies.
- Developed comprehensive documentation for system architectures, improving clarity and accessibility for future reference.
Automation IT manager
Cochran Marine LLC
Seattle, WA
11.2016 - 05.2020
- Oversaw Cochran Marine (now Watts Marine) SCADA and video management systems across seven North American locations.
- Managed timely maintenance and repairs of equipment to ensure operational efficiency and reliability of medium voltage switchgear, dockside cranes, cabling, and SCADA systems.
- Managed end-to-end maintenance period processes, from developing timelines and collecting pricing information to scheduling third-party services.
- Diagnosed and addressed automated report generation challenges to maintain workflow continuity.
- Compiled maintenance reports outlining completed tasks and identified deficiencies.
- Collaborated with field teams to ensure optimal coverage in response to customer schedule changes.
- Executed data analysis of shore power system events to identify and resolve issues.
- Facilitated communication between management and project managers to ensure timely implementation of system upgrades.
- Designed and implemented working procedures to support team objectives and improve productivity.
IT support specialist
Cochran Inc.
Seattle, WA
05.2015 - 11.2016
- Provided comprehensive technical support to over 700 users via phone, email, and walk-up inquiries, ensuring efficient resolution of issues across various locations in Washington and Oregon.
- Oversaw management of network email and intranet access rights for new and existing employees.
- Managed workstation and laptop setup processes to support operational efficiency and user productivity.
- Facilitated deployment, maintenance, and backup of data storage systems in collaboration with IT manager.
- Spearheaded research and deployment of new IT systems and applications in collaboration with IT manager.
- Facilitated deployment, maintenance, and backup of network infrastructure in collaboration with IT manager.
- Developed and implemented IT support procedures, streamlining operations and reducing response times.
IT support specialist (contractor)
Cochran Inc.
Seattle, WA
05.2014 - 02.2015
- Handled all technical support requests via phone, email, and walk-ups in an organization of over 700 users across multiple offices/jobsites in the Washington/Oregon area.
- Managed network, email, and intranet rights for new and existing employees.
- Responsible for workstation/laptop configuration, procurement, and setup.
- Assisted in the deployment, maintenance and backup of data storage in coordination with the IT Manager.
- Researched and deploys new IT systems and applications in coordination with the IT Manager.
- Assisted in the deployment, maintenance and backup of network infrastructure in coordination with the IT Manager.
- Developed documentation for future IT staff and users.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Computer And Information Systems
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA12-2007
Skills
- Access control – Genetec and Genetec Saas, OnGuard, Lenel Elements, Avigilon Unity, Lenel Netbox
- Video Management systems – Genetec, Milestone, Exacq, Avigilon Alta/Unity, Rhombus, Verkada
- Intercoms – Zenitel, 2N, Aiphone
- Intrusion systems - Bosch
- Virtual machines
- Excellent soft skills
- Industrial control/PLCs
Timeline
Sr. Systems Engineer (Physical security)
Cochran Inc.
05.2024 - Current
Systems Engineer (Physical security)
Cochran Inc.
05.2020 - 01.2024
Automation IT manager
Cochran Marine LLC
11.2016 - 05.2020
IT support specialist
Cochran Inc.
05.2015 - 11.2016
IT support specialist (contractor)
Cochran Inc.
05.2014 - 02.2015
Bachelor of Science - Computer And Information Systems
Kennesaw State University