I'm Mickal Speller

Accomplished I.T. professional, experienced designing, implementing, and supporting complex internetworking systems. Grounded in network engineering, and building expertise in cloud infrastructure and automation.

About Me

Throughout my career, I’ve designed and implemented scalable LAN/WAN solutions for enterprise networks and large data centers, maintained high-performance infrastructure, and delivered expert-level troubleshooting and Tier 3 support. I have a strong interest in cloud networking, architecture, automation, and AI. I regularly invest personal time in learning and building Azure-based projects while staying current with emerging trends in cloud technology.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling and going on adventures with my wife and son. I also spend way too much time playing Chess.

Experience

Dynamix Group

Systems Engineer June 2015 - Jan 2020

Provided a high level of competence in LAN/WAN infrastructure, datacenter technologies, and a variety of routing and switching platforms, with a strong focus on troubleshooting critical issues and coordinating implementations in customer-facing environments. I regularly resolve major network and system problems, ensuring minimal disruption and optimal performance.

Deployed large scale core L2/L3 enterprise datacenter infrastructure including but not limited to, Cisco ASR1K, Cisco Nexus 7K, Cisco 9K, Cisco 2K, OTV, VRFs, BGP, OSPF, MPLS connectivity, Palo Alto Firewalls.

Experience with multi-tier Azure networks w/ services such as, VNETS, NSGs, Azure Load Balancer, Express Routes, VMs and Bastions for secure access and segmentation of workloads across isolated zones for staging migrations and testing.

Babcock & Wilcox

Network Engineer Sept 2014 - June 2015

Provided network support for the LAN/WAN infrastructure across two regional data centers and more than 40 regional offices, ensuring continuous and reliable connectivity throughout the enterprise. I configured and deployed Cisco products and solutions to enhance network performance and scalability. Additionally, I collaborated with vendors to support and manage the MPLS network, ensuring service quality and quick issue resolution.

Sunbelt Rentals

Sr. Network Engineer Jan 2014 - Aug 2014

Provided support for LAN/WAN infrastructure for corporate data centers and over 350 rental locations and regional offices, ensuring reliable and scalable network connectivity across the organization. I provided top-tier support for complex, production-impacting issues affecting both internal and external clients, ensuring rapid resolution and minimal disruption. Additionally, I lead the design and implementation of network equipment within local and regional data centers to support evolving operational needs.

Mitsubishi Nuclear Energy Systems

Network Systems Manager July 2012 - Jan 2014

Lead the evaluation of network hardware, software, and security solutions by providing technical direction to both the network team and internal business units. My responsibilities include delivering top-tier support for all core network infrastructures, encompassing both data and voice services, while collaborating with internal departments and external partners to design effective business solutions that meet customer requirements. Played a key role in selecting network and security products for implementation, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Working closely with senior management, I helped shape technology decisions based on business needs and product capabilities. I also tested and evaluated new technologies in non-production environments, contributed to the development of security policies and procedures, and clearly communicated the value and benefits of network investments to support cost justification and long-term strategic planning.

Education

ECPI University

Associates of Applied Science - Biomedical Engineering Sept 1996

An Associate's Degree in Biomedical Engineering provides foundational knowledge in, electronics and engineering principles as they apply to medical technology. The program covers courses in medical device design, instrumentation, and healthcare technology, preparing graduates for entry-level roles supporting biomedical equipment and systems in clinical or research settings.

Certifications

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals AZ-900

Microsoft Corporation Nov 2019 [active]

Cisco Certified Network Professional

Cisco Systems Nov 2019 [inactive]

Cisco Certified Network Associate

Cisco Systems Sept 2021 [inactive]

Cisco Certified Network Associate Data Center

Cisco Systems Sept 2021 [inactive]

Cisco Certified Network Associate Security

Cisco Systems Sept 2021 [inactive]

Palo Alto Certified Network Security Administrator

Palo Alto Networks Sept 2023 [inactive]

Skills

Throughout my career, I’ve continuously self-assessed my proficiency in the following key areas to identify my strengths and opportunities for personal development and growth.

  • Client Communication & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Network Architecture & Design
  • Network Security & Risk Assessment
  • Azure Cloud Services
  • Technical Troubleshooting & Support
  • Leadership & Mentorship
  • Cloud Infrastructure Engineering

A Few Of My Personal Projects

Let's Connect

Just so you know, I built this website in the cloud using Microsoft Azure services and tools. Learn more about how I built this project HERE!

Linked-In

@mickalspeller