Patrick MacRae
Loveland,OH
Summary
Seasoned Network Engineer with over two decades of experience in network infrastructure design, support, and capacity management. Specializes in leading high-impact projects and teams to enhance network efficiency and reliability. Known for strategic planning and exceptional problem-solving abilities, consistently delivering projects ahead of schedule and under budget. A mentor to upcoming engineers, fostering technical excellence and professional growth.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Network Engineer III - Network Planning & Capacity
altafiber
Cincinnati, Ohio
03.2019 - 12.2024
- Led capacity planning activities on MPLS core and aggregation networks by analyzing current usage trends and projecting future growth requirements. Implemented additional bandwidth and port capacity, when necessary, in order to support network growth. Increased bandwidth capabilities by 4x during my tenure.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to upgrade network infrastructure for critical projects and initiatives. Planned and managed the project to overhaul core and aggregation network hardware in support of capacity expansion. Responsibilities included equipment planning and deployment schedule, MOP development, and representation of work in front of the Change Advisory Board. Hot-swapped 70 routers during non-peak hours in an 18-month timeframe, completing the project 6 months early.
- Implemented a new out-of-territory expansion project plan, including equipment selection and design. Collaborated with multiple internal teams to turn up seven new Central Offices outside of the current operating footprint.
- In support of altafiber's Network Transformation initiative, I have been able to reduce space and power expenses by $11K per month by managing projects to consolidate or eliminate legacy equipment.
- Facilitated vendor relationships for the procurement of networking equipment and support, negotiating contracts to achieve cost savings.
- Participated in monthly, yearly, and multi-year capital planning exercises. Managed capital budgets totaling $15 million per year.
Network Engineer III- Network Design and Support
Cincinnati Bell Telephone
Cincinnati, OH
01.2012 - 03.2019
- Lead Engineer on a team responsible for designing end-to-end Ethernet services for enterprise-level customers. Each service order required fiber circuit design, hardware configuration, detailed documentation, and installation support.
- Handled day-to-day operational support of the data network, including infrastructure deployment and turn-up, link augment design and installation, and network grooming activities.
- Provided tier 3 support for the Network Operations Center. Diagnosed and resolved technical issues for internal and external customers in a timely manner, ensuring minimal downtime.
- Participated in after-hours on-call rotation to provide 24/7 support for critical issues. Identified issues and implemented appropriate solutions to deliver quick, effective remediation.
- Acted as a mentor to junior engineers by providing training on relevant technologies and procedures.
Team Lead - Network Operations Center
Cincinnati Bell Telephone
Cincinnati, OH
08.2010 - 01.2012
- Tasked with hiring and developing a team of network technicians capable of delivering knowledgeable technical support, with a focus on customer service. Managed a team of 12 technicians, many of whom advanced to engineering positions, both inside and outside the company.
- Provided leadership and guidance to team members, ensuring that tasks were completed on time and to a high standard. Conducted training sessions for staff members on the proper use of networking equipment and adherence to security policies.
- Served as the primary point of contact for all escalated technical issues related to the company's networks. Resolved escalated customer complaints or queries promptly and efficiently.
- Developed and monitored key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess team effectiveness. Motivated staff through positive reinforcement techniques.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback and personalized coaching.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Miami University
Oxford, OH12-1996
Skills
- Infrastructure planning and design
- MPLS network optimization
- Cross-functional team collaboration
- Datacenter network implementation
- Project management
- Budget management
- Vendor negotiation
Accomplishments
- Encore Summit Award - 2013 - In recognition of outstanding dedication and vision to the continued success of Cincinnati Bell
- U.S. Marine Corps Great American Rivalry Series Hall of Fame inductee - 2009
References
References available upon request.
Certification
ITIL Foundation - IT Service Management Certification
Work Preference
Work Type
Full TimeImportant To Me
Company CultureHealthcare benefitsWork-life balanceTimeline
Network Engineer III - Network Planning & Capacity
altafiber
03.2019 - 12.2024
Network Engineer III- Network Design and Support
Cincinnati Bell Telephone
01.2012 - 03.2019
Team Lead - Network Operations Center
Cincinnati Bell Telephone
08.2010 - 01.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Miami University
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