Hi, I'm Michael Blasius

Born curious, shaped by challenge, and always reaching for deeper truth. I’ve worn many hats—learner, technician, partner, parent, planner, builder, listener. Professionally, I’ve mainly worked as an IT Consultant, but I’ve come to see that who we are matters as much as what we do.

Seasoned IT consultant with over 15 years of experience driving cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and enterprise IT architecture for global organizations. Proven expertise in leading nationwide infrastructure rollouts, optimizing hybrid IT environments with Azure and AWS, and implementing robust security measures, including firewall configuration and disaster recovery planning. Committed to delivering scalable, reliable solutions that enhance operational efficiency and align with strategic business goals.

Information Technology Consultant – Mar 2020–Present

Vicinitech · United States · Remote

• Spearheaded IT initiatives for SMBs, including firewall setup, cloud backups, and system integrations to enhance infrastructure reliability.
• Optimized endpoint management using Microsoft Intune, deploying PowerShell and Python scripts to automate configurations and improve efficiency.
• Led troubleshooting and vendor coordination, reducing issue resolution time and improving SLA adherence.
• Mentored Level 1 technicians, enhancing team productivity and knowledge transfer.
• Developed documentation standards and proposed solutions for recurring issues, boosting system uptime and customer retention.

Principal Consultant – Mar 2006–Mar 2020

Enfide · Lake Villa, Illinois

• Delivered managed IT services for SMBs, overseeing infrastructure, cybersecurity, and cloud strategies across multiple industries.
• Designed scalable solutions through needs assessments, implementing virtualization and cloud migrations (Microsoft 365, Azure, AWS).
• Managed LOB application deployment, providing training and change management to support end users.
• Conducted cost-benefit analyses to optimize legacy systems, reducing IT spend while improving performance.
• Built SOPs and knowledge bases, ensuring standardized service delivery and long-term client satisfaction.

Senior System Engineer – May 2005–Mar 2006

Chasm Industries · Northbrook, Illinois

• Led nationwide IT infrastructure deployment across six U.S. locations, integrating MPLS networking and Cisco telephony.
• Implemented Microsoft Active Directory and Exchange Server for centralized authentication and communication.
• Designed secure server infrastructure using Dell PowerEdge servers and SonicWall firewalls for high availability.
• Coordinated cross-functional teams and vendors to meet project milestones within budget and timelines.
• Authored comprehensive documentation, including network diagrams and SOPs, to support ongoing operations.

Technology Consultant – May 2000–May 2005

KynetyK · Grayslake, Illinois

• Founded and operated a technology services business, providing IT support to residential and small business clients.
• Designed and maintained IT infrastructure, including LAN/WAN networks, VPNs, and secure Wi-Fi configurations.
• Delivered technical support, including diagnostics, malware remediation, and hardware repair, ensuring client system reliability.
• Built client websites and email hosting platforms, integrating DNS and content management systems.
• Trained clients on technology use, reducing support calls and fostering long-term customer relationships.

IT Systems Analyst – Sep 1998–May 2000

Abbott · Waukegan, Illinois

• Supported enterprise IT during Y2K remediation, ensuring critical systems remained operational and compliant.
• Maintained 400+ workstations, performing OS migrations, hardware upgrades, and standardized software deployments.
• Collaborated with development teams for software testing and quality assurance before enterprise rollouts.
• Streamlined workstation imaging processes, reducing deployment time and improving consistency.
• Acted as a technical liaison, translating business needs into scalable IT solutions and documenting procedures.

Field Technology Specialist – Jan 1996–Aug 1998

Best Buy · Chicago, Illinois · Hybrid

• Provided on-site technical services, installing and configuring PC systems, networks, and software for clients.
• Diagnosed and resolved hardware/software issues, coordinating with vendors for compatibility and warranty concerns.
• Trained clients on new technology, empowering adoption and reducing future support needs.
• Acted as a technology advisor, guiding purchasing decisions and system upgrades for small businesses and families.
• Achieved #1 in company-wide revenue sales through technical expertise and strong customer relationships.

Independent Newspaper Distributor (Paper Deliverer) – 1989–1991

News Sun · Grayslake, Illinois

• Managed a personal paper delivery route, distributing newspapers to residential customers on weekday afternoons and Saturday mornings.
• Solicited new customers along assigned routes, increasing circulation and expanding territory.
• Handled customer service, including weekly/monthly collections and issue resolution.
• Purchased inventory up front from the publisher, balancing expenses and income like a small business.
• Developed early skills in time management, responsibility, and customer engagement.