I enjoy blending technical curiosity with the power of community. I like to think I bridge the gap between innovation and hard work.
I'm an AWS Community Hero. I strongly believe knowledge is more valuable when shared. I help build and run technical communities in Chicago. Since 2013, I've organized the Chicago AWS user group, the 3rd largest user group in North America. We maintain regular educational, user-focused events in downtown Chicago. I run events, organize sponsors and hosts, coordinate with speakers, and order the pizza. In 2017 I joined the wonderful DevOpsDays Chicago organizers. DevOpsDays is a worldwide community conference series for anyone interested in IT improvement. Join DevOpsDays in the future!
I am a Program Manager on Morningstar's Cloud Services team. Previously, I was a Solutions Engineer at BreakFree Consulting where I helped teams bring in DevOps practices to organizations and building in AWS. For five years I was the Technical Marketing Specialist at Cohesive Networks where I built technical documentation, product guides, customer campaigns and building technology communities. In 2017 I became an AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Associate.
Before technology, I ran green building LEED certification projects as a Certified LEED AP O+M. I hold a BSM from Tulane University and a Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge. I volunteer at the annual THOTCON infosec conference in Chicago. I am a past president (2014-2016) of the Chicago Tulane Alumni Association.
I am a product of Nashville, a lover of New Orleans, and a proud Chicago transplant. I adore my dog, Peanut.