Austen Young

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY | CYBERSECURITY | WEB SPECIALIST

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, CANADA

Hello, I’m Austen Young, an Information Technology Specialist and Cybersecurity enthusiast with a strong foundation in server environments, IT infrastructure, and web development. I specialize in leading IT initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and security, with hands-on experience in managing physical and cloud-based systems, optimizing networks, and ensuring robust data protection.

Throughout my career, I’ve designed and implemented secure hosting environments, developed and maintained websites, and established reliable IT infrastructures tailored to meet diverse business needs. My expertise includes configuring virtualized environments like Proxmox, managing Linux and Windows server systems, and setting up secure VPN solutions. I take pride in building responsive and visually engaging websites, ensuring performance, accessibility, and security at every stage.

Beyond the technical aspects, I excel at team leadership, problem-solving, and translating complex technical challenges into clear, actionable solutions. Whether troubleshooting systems, optimizing hardware, or deploying comprehensive IT solutions, I’m driven by the goal of delivering high-quality results that align with organizational goals. If you’re looking for a skilled professional who combines technical proficiency with a strategic approach to IT, I’d be excited to collaborate and contribute to your success. Let’s create solutions that work seamlessly for your business!


Experience

Information Technology Sub-Contractor

Freelance
  • Partnered with leading IT firms to deliver on-site and remote technical support for diverse industries including retail, healthcare, and professional services.
  • Provided IT infrastructure services for clients such as clothing retailers, dental clinics, and small business offices.
  • Installed and configured critical networking hardware including routers, switches, NAS devices, and firewalls.
  • Performed structured cabling and tested network reliability to ensure seamless connectivity and minimal downtime.
  • Installed UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems to protect client infrastructure from power disruptions.
  • Mounted and configured server racks and wall-mounted network cabinets for organized and scalable IT environments.
  • Assisted with workstation deployments, printer setups, and peripheral device configurations.
  • Conducted on-site diagnostics and troubleshooting for hardware and software issues.
  • Ensured all installations met best practices for performance, scalability, and physical security.
  • Installed, configured, and managed Windows Server environments, including Hyper-V, Active Directory, Group Policy, and file/print services, ensuring stable and secure operations.
  • Diagnosed, resolved, and managed DNS-related issues and broader network infrastructure problems, improving system reliability and minimizing downtime.
February 2025 - Current

President

CloudLocal Technologies
  • Managed VPS for client hosting solutions.
  • Configured and maintained Wazuh SIEM tools for security monitoring.
  • Secured company desktops and servers with Bitdefender GravityZone.
  • Developed and maintained websites using HTML, PHP, and WordPress.
  • Utilized SuiteCRM for client management.
  • Led digital marketing efforts via Google Ads and Facebook Ads.
  • Managed MySQL and MariaDB databases for client websites.
  • Developed custom web applications (CRM, CSM systems).
  • Implemented AWS solutions for business needs.
Novemeber 2021 - Current

Lead Information Technology Specialist

Wa-Say Healing Centre
  • Managed and maintained office systems, computers, and servers.
  • Set up self-hosted IT infrastructures, including VoIP phones and RMM tools.
  • Upgraded hardware components (e.g., SSD, RAM) for better performance.
  • Designed and deployed hosting environments using Proxmox, Cyberpanel, and AWS.
  • Installed and configured NVR and security camera systems.
  • Troubleshot and resolved end-user IT issues.
  • Managed and maintained a Microsoft 365 Non-Profit account acquired through TechSoup grants, including user provisioning, license allocation, and ongoing administration of Exchange, Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive.
  • Set up and managed a self-hosted WordPress environment.
  • Managed DNS configurations for smooth network operations.
  • Implemented office network infrastructure.
  • Created UI elements and designs using Adobe Photoshop and Canva.
  • Used WebRoot Cybersecurity and Imunify360 for security management.
  • Established WireGuard VPN Tunnels for secure remote access.
May 2023 - January 2025

IT Specialist Contractor

ITspace DoITRight Inc.
  • Managed client systems using RMM software.
  • Provided IT support and troubleshooting for office devices.
  • Administered server environments for clients.
  • Worked with Windows, Linux, and MacOS console commands.
  • Provided IT support via email and phone.
  • Configured NAS backups and RAID systems.
September 2022 - May 2023

Web and IT Specialist

Bullwhip Logistics
  • Set up VoIP phone systems and integrated RingCentral.
  • Developed CRM modules in SuiteCRM.
  • Managed WordPress website updates.
  • Designed marketing materials using Adobe Photoshop and Canva.
  • Integrated APIs for real-time package tracking.
February 2022 - September 2022

Web and Software Designer

Volleyball Winnipeg
  • Used ZOHO and SuiteCRM for client management.
  • Managed cloud hosting environments (BlueHost, GoDaddy).
  • Designed and implemented CRM modules.
  • Set up RMM environments for remote management.
  • Installed and configured POS systems.
  • Developed eCommerce systems.
June 2021 - February 2022

Education

Murdoch Mackay Collegiate

Honour Roll
2015 - 2019

Skills

Programming Languages & Tools
HTML/CSS
Web Development
JavaScript
Interactive Websites
WordPress
Custom Themes
Server Management
Proxmox, Hyper-V, AWS, Linux, Windows Server
Operating Systems
Windows, MacOS, Linux
Cybersecurity Tools
Endpoint Management, AV, SIEM, MDR, IDS
Skills
HTML / CSS
JavaScript
Python
WordPress
Server Management
Ubuntu / Debian
Windows Desktop / Server
Network Management
Kali-Linux
Proxmox / Hyper-V
NVR Systems

Projects

Project 1

Proxmox Virtualization

Project Overview

The tower PC on the right serves as the Proxmox server, hosting multiple virtual machines (VMs). Proxmox provides an efficient platform for running and managing VMs, optimizing IT resources.

Laptop for VM Access

The HP laptop connects to a VM running on Proxmox, demonstrating how users can seamlessly access virtualized environments as if they were physical machines.

Web Interface Management

The ThinkPad laptop runs the Proxmox web interface, allowing administrators to create, monitor, and manage VMs, allocate resources, and control the virtualized infrastructure with ease.

Secure Remote Access with a Self-Hosted VPN Tunnel

A WireGuard VPN hosted on AWS securely connects the host laptop and Proxmox VM to the company network, preventing exposure of sensitive services like RDP to the public internet.

Encrypted & Secure Communication

The host laptop and Proxmox VM utilize the VPN tunnel for encrypted communication, ensuring secure remote access while protecting the network from unauthorized access.

Conclusion

This setup highlights the power of virtualization, where a single Proxmox server hosts multiple VMs, optimizing IT resources while maintaining security and usability for both administrators and end users.

Project 2

CloudLocal Technologies Website

Project Overview

I designed and developed the official website for CloudLocal Technologies using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, and JavaScript. This project showcases my ability to create modern, responsive, and user-friendly designs.

Why Responsive Design Matters

A responsive design ensures an optimal user experience on any device. With users accessing websites from desktops, tablets, and smartphones, it’s crucial to provide a seamless experience across all screen sizes.

Key Features

  • HTML & CSS: Structured content and visually appealing design.
  • Bootstrap: Mobile-first framework for a fully responsive layout.
  • JavaScript: Enhances user interaction and functionality.
  • Cross-Device Compatibility: Optimized for desktops, tablets, and smartphones.

Modern Web Standards

This project adheres to the latest web development practices, ensuring accessibility, usability, and security while aligning with user expectations and business goals.

Retail Store Server Rack & Network Infrastructure Upgrade

Project Overview

I was contracted to upgrade and optimize the back-office IT infrastructure for a major retail store to ensure improved network reliability, power redundancy, and future scalability. The scope included:

  • Server rack overhaul
  • Installation of a new UPS system
  • Deployment of a business-class router
  • Structured cabling and patch panel reorganization
  • Installation of managed PoE network switches

Key Responsibilities and Tasks

1. Server Rack Overhaul and UPS Installation: Replaced and Installed an APC Smart-UPS (SMX Series), Routed and labeled power cabling to separate battery-backup and utility power. Tested functionality under load conditions.

2. Router and Network Switch Replacement: Deployed a business-class router with VLAN and QoS capabilities. Installed new managed PoE+ switches to support current and future IP devices. Used Cat6 cabling and tested all terminations for quality assurance.

3. Structured Cabling and Patch Panel Optimization: Cleaned and reorganized all back-office cabling. Installed brush plates and Velcro ties. Used color-coded Ethernet cables and labeled all drops and ports for maintainability.

Tools & Technologies Used

  • Hardware: APC Smart-UPS, Managed PoE+ Switches, Fortinet/Unifi Router
  • Software: APC PowerChute, Router & Switch Management Interfaces
  • Tools: Network cable tester, punch-down tool, labeling printer, rack mounting hardware

Outcome and Value Delivered

  • Reliable power redundancy via smart UPS
  • Improved network structure and performance
  • Future-proofed setup for PoE devices and VLANs
  • Significantly improved cabling aesthetics and manageability

Designs


Interests

Apart from my professional life in IT and Cybersecurity, I spend most of my time working out at the gym, hanging out and talking with friends, I love eating food, and cooking as well. I am a master chef in the kitchen for protein-based meals.

A fun fact about me is that I lost almost 145 lbs (325lbs to 180lbs) since 2022. I believe that with hard work and dedication, you can make anything happen.

I've also been actively involved in the Game Design scene in my free time, and have a seperate portfolio regarding that for a game I worked on in 2021. See here.


Certifications


Let's Work Together

I'm currently open to freelance opportunities and contract gigs. Whether you're a business needing technical expertise or a designer looking to collaborate on IT or Web projects, I’m always open to new and exciting challenges. Let's build something great together.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (204) 290-3267

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada