Michael Turner
Crawfordville,FL
Summary
Dynamic and service-oriented IT leader and engineer with a proven track record of driving digital transformation across diverse sectors, including business, technology, and government. Expertise in delivering complex, high-impact technology and cybersecurity initiatives within fast-paced environments, emphasizing operational excellence, risk mitigation, and the development of resilient systems. Recognized for cultivating high-performing technical teams and establishing strong, trust-based relationships with senior executives and key stakeholders to advance organizational strategies and mission objectives. Committed to leveraging innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and drive sustainable growth while navigating the evolving landscape of technology.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
6
6
Certification
Work History
Chief Information Officer – IT Director
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Tallahassee, FL
02.2023 - Current
- Developed and executed comprehensive IT strategy to support agency's alignment with legislative mandates and organizational goals.
- Managed technology budget of $10 million annually to align expenditures with agency priorities and enhance financial efficiency.
- Formulated and implemented comprehensive cybersecurity strategies to enhance threat management and risk mitigation efforts.
- Managed comprehensive incident response strategies, focusing on effective containment, recovery, and compliance with NIST and CJIS standards.
- Created and executed technology solutions aligned with agency requirements, optimizing operational efficiency and safeguarding data integrity.
- Engaged with state and local agencies, Florida legislature, and Office of Policy and Budget to align funding with enterprise-wide IT initiatives.
- Led initiatives to integrate modern technologies, optimizing internal processes and fostering strategic outcomes across departments.
- Oversaw the design and implementation of enterprise systems, focusing on enhancing user experience and optimizing service delivery.
- Managed vendor contract negotiations and developed strategic partnerships with technology providers to optimize IT asset procurement processes.
- Led modernization efforts and system implementations to facilitate effective organizational change management and staff development.
- Coordinated execution of a diverse range of enterprise IT projects, aligning project deliverables with organizational requirements and regulatory standards.
- Evaluated industry advancements to drive digital transformation and improve operational efficiency through automation.
- Performed in-depth assessments of IT risks and operational value, providing critical insights for strategic leadership decisions.
- Managed strategic initiatives across core technology domains to enhance operational efficiency in network infrastructure, cybersecurity, desktop support, CRM platforms, and enterprise applications.
- Developed and enforced governance structures for data and technology management to enhance transparency and stakeholder collaboration.
- Established and refined cybersecurity policies and incident response protocols to safeguard critical systems and data.
- Managed and executed strategic IT projects, focusing on boosting efficiency across environmental initiatives.
- Directed cybersecurity initiatives to protect sensitive information and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Cultivated partnerships across departments to ensure technology solutions effectively support conservation initiatives.
- Led cross-functional teams in risk assessments and vulnerability management initiatives.
- Established incident response protocols, improving reaction time to potential breaches.
- Fostered a culture of cybersecurity awareness through training programs for employees at all levels.
- Collaborated with IT departments to align security frameworks with business objectives and compliance standards.
- Conducted regular audits and assessments to ensure adherence to security policies and regulations.
- Spearheaded the integration of advanced security technologies, enhancing overall threat detection capabilities.
- Established measures, metrics, thresholds and targets to drive performance in alignment with security and other business strategies.
- Championed employee engagement in cybersecurity initiatives, leading to increased awareness and adherence to best practices.
Network Services Section Leader – Network manager
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Tallahassee, FL
10.2018 - 02.2023
- Led comprehensive initiatives in the design and management of sophisticated IT infrastructure, integrating encryption standards, VPNs, WAN/LAN architectures, IDS/IPS systems, VoIP solutions, wireless access points/controllers, firewalls, and video teleconferencing (VTC) hardware.
- Oversaw enterprise-wide network troubleshooting and incident resolution to ensure seamless communication across geographically distributed environments.
- Led initiatives to mentor and develop network administrators and engineers, promoting a culture of excellence and ongoing professional growth.
- Executed comprehensive security event monitoring and risk remediation strategies to ensure alignment with state cybersecurity standards.
- Managed critical infrastructure initiatives by coordinating project and contract activities, ensuring adherence to scope and accountability of vendors.
- Oversaw selection, implementation, and maintenance of mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enhance secure mobile operations.
- Managed comprehensive migration strategy for 103 physical sites, facilitating transition to mfn-2/dms network backbone while minimizing service disruption.
- Engineered and deployed network data storage architecture, focusing on scalability improvements and effective data lifecycle management strategies.
- Oversaw implementation of Microsoft Azure cloud engineering solutions, supporting effective hybrid infrastructure strategies and efficient workload migration.
- Oversaw enterprise hardware lifecycle management, ensuring accurate inventory tracking, timely updates, efficient repairs, and strategic asset decommissioning for infrastructure assets valued at over $4 million.
- Executed internal IT audits and implemented change management strategies to maintain adherence to governance and cybersecurity standards.
- Designed and implemented production and disaster recovery network infrastructures, ensuring robust redundancy strategies for uninterrupted operations.
- Evaluated and revised IT policies and procedures consistently to maintain alignment with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
- Coordinated co-location services and data compliance efforts with Florida State Data Center to enhance operational efficiency.
- Forged strategic partnerships with state, local, and federal agencies alongside private sector vendors to drive multi-jurisdictional technology initiatives.
- Analyzed and articulated budget needs for ongoing and prospective network infrastructure projects to support strategic IT initiatives.
- Led information security strategy, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and compliance standards.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive risk management frameworks to mitigate potential threats.
- Established security awareness training programs, enhancing employee understanding of cybersecurity best practices.
- Collaborated with IT departments to integrate advanced security solutions across network infrastructure.
- Streamlined vulnerability management processes for faster detection and remediation of potential risks.
System Programmer III – Network and Infrastructure Technical Lead
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Tallahassee, FL
06.2014 - 10.2018
- Configured and maintained cloud and on-premises server and network infrastructure to support organizational operations.
- Executed implementation of infrastructure encryption for virtual private networks, WAN/LAN networks, intrusion detection systems, wireless access points, wireless controllers, firewalls, and VTC hardware.
- Engineered and implemented design plans for network router management and configuration in production and disaster recovery environments.
- Oversaw troubleshooting and resolution of network challenges to enhance operational efficiency. Managed site configuration information to ensure optimal performance. Developed and refined network operational procedures to align with best practices. Supervised inventory management of all network equipment and locations. Led research initiatives in network systems and related technologies to inform proposals for new or expanded services.
- Configured and deployed network management and monitoring systems, ensuring seamless network performance and reliability.
- Conducted comprehensive tests on hardware and software to validate performance and integration with current systems.
- Oversaw training initiatives for junior staff to enhance troubleshooting skills for network hardware and software. Guided implementation of network solutions to improve operational efficiency. Developed comprehensive documentation of network infrastructure and procedures to streamline processes.
- Administered system configuration processes to enhance performance and safeguard security across multiple platforms.
- Configured and maintained backup systems to ensure data integrity and facilitate rapid recovery.
- Architected and implemented robust Azure solutions to improve overall cloud performance and reliability.
- Implemented and optimized cloud infrastructure deployment processes leveraging Azure DevOps and automation tools for streamlined operations.
- Configured and monitored Windows Server environments to ensure peak performance and compliance with security protocols.
- Managed implementation of system patches and updates, significantly improving operational efficiency across all platforms.
- Conducted thorough assessments and instituted security protocols to ensure the integrity of sensitive data and mitigate breach risks.
- Conducted thorough analysis of security incidents to enhance system integrity and reduce potential threats.
- Designed and enforced comprehensive security protocols to safeguard organizational assets.
- Managed the coordination of system upgrades, ensuring effective communication among teams for smooth transitions and reduced downtime.
- Implemented automated solutions for routine maintenance tasks, significantly reducing manual workload and boosting efficiency.
- Developed and deployed network infrastructure solutions to facilitate organizational expansion and efficiency.
- Administered network routing and switching configurations to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
Systems Operations Specialist
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, NM
03.2014 - 06.2014
- Led the architecture, deployment, and lifecycle management of enterprise-grade Windows and Linux server environments, ensuring robust, scalable platforms for business-critical operations.
- Directed the implementation and maintenance of operating systems and enterprise software, ensuring alignment with business needs, security standards, and operational efficiency.
- Established and enforced system security configurations and access policies, driving compliance with internal governance and external regulatory frameworks.
- Oversaw technical troubleshooting and performance tuning, leading root cause analysis and resolution of complex system and network issues to minimize downtime.
- Planned and executed strategic upgrades of operating systems and networking infrastructure, leading change management processes and ensuring minimal disruption to users.
- Engineered and validated system and network performance benchmarks, aligning performance outcomes with defined business objectives and capacity planning models.
- Directed the creation and ongoing enhancement of system and network documentation, providing operational clarity and ensuring alignment with enterprise standards and audit requirements.
- Managed vendor coordination and service-level agreements (SLAs) for preventive and corrective maintenance, ensuring high system availability and long-term reliability.
- Provided hands-on leadership in the execution of maintenance and lifecycle tasks for servers, network appliances, and storage infrastructure, driving resilience and uptime across environments.
- Supervised enterprise data integrity and business continuity operations, including system backups, patch management, and disaster recovery testing.
- Conducted technical evaluations of emerging technologies, delivering data-driven recommendations on infrastructure investments and modernization initiatives to senior leadership.
- Served as a technical mentor and team lead, guiding junior engineers and administrators in best practices, architectural standards, and secure configuration management.
- Facilitated system monitoring and troubleshooting to optimize operational efficiency.
- Managed software updates and system maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
- Led system architecture design and implementation for diverse network environments.
- Managed server performance optimization, ensuring high availability and reliability.
- Managed Windows Server environments, ensuring optimal performance and security compliance.
- Led system upgrades and patch management for enhanced operational efficiency.
- Automated routine tasks using PowerShell, reducing manual intervention and errors.
POTFF-DefenseReady Unit Specialist
L-3 Communication
Cannon AFB, NM
06.2013 - 03.2014
- Directed unit-level deployment management operations at both the group and squadron levels, ensuring readiness and alignment with mission-critical timelines for Special Operations Forces (SOF).
- Led the implementation of a new enterprise software solution and multi-tiered database architecture for AFSOC and SOCOM, enhancing real-time operational visibility and mission coordination across the global SOF community.
- Delivered technical training on DefenseReady, computer systems, and integrated hardware/software tools to personnel with security clearances, enabling precise data access and mission readiness.
- Served as a Database Administrator for server-based military systems, managing and optimizing data storage, access, and system integrity for high-security environments.
- Oversaw the tracking of personnel, equipment, and operational data for both deployment and garrison scenarios, supporting full-spectrum SOF mission planning and execution.
- Collaborated with military stakeholders to develop and implement web-based application functionality, improving accessibility and streamlining SOF-specific data workflows.
- Provided network and systems support, including troubleshooting network issues, resolving customer support tickets, and maintaining helpdesk operations to ensure consistent IT service delivery.
- Led the development and coordination of training programs for both end-users and IT personnel, ensuring consistent usage and understanding of new systems and infrastructure across units.
- Coordinated joint-force system operations and data sharing for Special Operations Forces at bases worldwide, ensuring the reliability, security, and availability of mission-critical programs.
- Designed and launched custom program instances and operational dashboards for SOF commanders to support strategic mission execution, personnel mobility, and global force tracking.
Level 3 Service Technician
Mediacom Communications
Santa Rosa Beach, FL
05.2009 - 02.2011
- Led the end-to-end operation, maintenance, installation, and strategic planning for all Tier 1, 2, and 3 voice, internet, and cable services, ensuring high reliability for both residential and commercial customers.
- Designed and managed robust network infrastructure, including high-level business communications systems, ensuring compliance with performance, security, and uptime standards.
- Completed over 300 hours of specialized technical training in maintenance, head end systems, network operations, and regulatory compliance, maintaining expert-level knowledge of cutting-edge telecom technologies and industry standards.
- Accountable for $200,000+ in technical equipment, infrastructure tools, and communications assets, maintaining tight inventory control and supporting service continuity.
- Engineered and maintained diverse communication systems including fiber optics, line extenders, nodes, transmitters/receivers, AC/DC circuits, power supplies, cable demarcation points, and residential/business customer premises equipment.
- Executed comprehensive network installations and repairs involving modems, routers, switches, and advanced home/business networking, supporting configurations across CAT5, CAT6, twisted pair, RG6, RG11, and RG59 cabling standards.
- Performed advanced splicing of cable, fiber, and hardline (750 MHz) infrastructure, adhering strictly to FCC and OSHA regulations and promoting a culture of safety and compliance.
- Delivered consistently high-quality customer service in both field and office environments, earning top-tier ratings for professionalism, communication, and issue resolution.
- Troubleshot and resolved over 150,000+ service tickets and network-related issues, addressing signal leaks, system noise, and infrastructure-level disruptions with a high success rate.
- Contributed significantly to network health through proactive monitoring, signal optimization, and root-cause analysis, resulting in improved quality control metrics and exceptional feedback from quality assurance and executive evaluations.
Signal Team Chief
United States Army
Fort Gordon, GA
02.2004 - 05.2009
- Directed the installation, maintenance, and compliance of comprehensive communications and IT systems across five military organizations, managing tactical satellite terminals (TACSAT), TACLANE encryption devices, VHF/UHF radios, microwave and fiber-optic networks, and enterprise Microsoft Server 2003 environments including Active Directory and Exchange.
- Managed enterprise-grade Cisco networking hardware, including switches, routers, VoIP and POTS phones, REDCOM PBX systems, and Video Teleconference (VTC) suites, ensuring uninterrupted, secure voice and data communications.
- Led a highly skilled team of eight communications specialists, accountable for over $18.5 million in mission-critical equipment, and provided secure automated networks supporting up to 1,834 personnel across multiple units.
- Conducted in-depth analysis of Built-In Test (BIT) and Built-In Test Equipment (BITE) diagnostics, proactively identifying and resolving system faults to maintain operational readiness.
- Detected and reported electronic jamming and deception activities, deploying effective electronic countermeasures to safeguard communications integrity.
- Performed precise calibration and quality control testing on circuits, trunk groups, and ancillary systems, ensuring optimal performance under austere and dynamic conditions.
- Directed the initial establishment and ongoing sustainment of critical communications infrastructure in challenging environments, supporting three subordinate units with robust, secure connectivity.
- Served as Team Chief, spearheading network design, architecture planning, and the development and enforcement of security policies to meet stringent operational and cybersecurity requirements.
- Developed training programs to improve soldier skills and ensure compliance with military standards.
- Led diverse teams to achieve mission objectives and enhance operational readiness.
- Managed tactical satellite communication systems to ensure reliable data transmission.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Computer Information Systems – Network Management/Information Technology Management
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, Florida, FL12-2016
Associate of Science - Information Technology – Networking
Clovis Community College
Clovis, New Mexico, NM12-2013
Skills
- Enterprise IT and Cybersecurity Executive Leadership
- Enterprise IT Strategic Planning IT Governance
- Enterprise IT Project Management Waterfall Agile
- Business Process Process Improvement Analysis Problem Solving
- Cross functional Collaboration State Federal
- ITIL Service Management ITIL Service Delivery
- Digital Transformation Optimization Modernization Migration
- Vendor Management Contract Management
- Cloud Design Cloud Security Identity & Access Management MFA Azure M365
- Business Continuity Disaster Recovery Planning
- Enterprise IT Operations Management
- Cybersecurity Compliance Risk Incident Response
- System Administration Network Administration Cybersecurity
Certification
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) #2236088
- Project Management Professional (PMP) #4118325
- Cisco Certified Network Associate
- Cisco Certified Network Technician
- CompTIA Security+
- IC3 Digital Literacy Certification
- Cisco Networking Academy
Timeline
Chief Information Officer – IT Director
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
02.2023 - Current
Network Services Section Leader – Network manager
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
10.2018 - 02.2023
System Programmer III – Network and Infrastructure Technical Lead
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
06.2014 - 10.2018
Systems Operations Specialist
Eastern New Mexico University
03.2014 - 06.2014
POTFF-DefenseReady Unit Specialist
L-3 Communication
06.2013 - 03.2014
Level 3 Service Technician
Mediacom Communications
05.2009 - 02.2011
Signal Team Chief
United States Army
02.2004 - 05.2009
Bachelor of Science - Computer Information Systems – Network Management/Information Technology Management
Florida Institute of Technology
Associate of Science - Information Technology – Networking
Clovis Community College