Hi, my name is
David Pugliese.
I build resilient IT systems that drive business growth.
I'm a Director of Information Technology with deep expertise in hybrid infrastructure, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity. I'm passionate about future-proofing systems, mentoring staff, and delivering innovative solutions that align with organizational growth.
About Me
Hello! I'm David, a seasoned IT professional with a proven track record of empowering teams and driving audit-ready documentation across complex environments. My journey in technology is driven by a desire to reduce single points of failure and scale operations effectively.
With years of hands-on experience, I've led IT operations across diverse sectors, including nonprofit, healthcare, and finance. I specialize in managing hybrid infrastructures, directing end-to-end service delivery, and implementing robust cybersecurity frameworks aligned with NIST and CIS controls.
Whether I'm overseeing cloud migrations, designing network redesigns, or mentoring my team, my focus is always on delivering excellence and ensuring strategic IT alignment with business goals.
Core Competencies
Cybersecurity
NIST & CIS Frameworks
Implementing and auditing security controls.
Endpoint Protection & MFA
Securing devices and verifying user identities.
Incident Response
Containing and mitigating security threats.
Disaster Recovery
Ensuring business continuity after disruptions.
Cloud & Infrastructure
Azure & AWS
Managing scalable and secure cloud resources.
VMware & Hyper-V
Virtualizing servers for efficiency and resilience.
Microsoft 365 & Exchange
Administering collaboration and email platforms.
Hybrid Environments
Integrating on-premise and cloud infrastructure.
Networking
Firewalls, Switches, Routers
Building and maintaining core network hardware.
Cisco, Ubiquiti, Fortinet
Expertise with leading network hardware vendors.
VLAN & Site-to-Site VPN
Segmenting networks and connecting sites securely.
Performance Tuning
Optimizing network traffic for speed and reliability.
IT Management
Budget & Vendor Mgmt.
Overseeing IT spending and third-party relations.
Team Leadership
Mentoring and guiding IT professionals to success.
SOP & Documentation
Creating clear procedures for consistent operations.
SLA Compliance
Meeting and exceeding service level agreements.
Professional Experience
Feb 2024 - Present
Director of Information Technology | Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity
- Lead IT operations across hybrid infrastructure and cloud platforms (Salesforce, Fonteva, M365).
- Provide Tier 2-3 support for executive leadership and staff.
- Manage annual IT budget, vendor contracts, and cybersecurity protocols.
Jul 2023 - Feb 2024
IT Manager | ERGOS Technology Partners
- Directed IT service delivery for 50+ clients, maintaining 98% SLA compliance.
- Led teams on infrastructure modernization projects, reducing client downtime by 40%.
- Optimized licensing and negotiated contracts to reduce overhead by 15%.
Apr 2022 - Jul 2023
Lead Professional Service Engineer | SWK Technologies
- Acted as technical escalation point for complex issues across M365, firewalls, and backup systems.
- Built and maintained internal documentation libraries, SOPs, and client-specific runbooks.
- Collaborated with sales to scope new projects and deliver technical roadmaps.
Aug 2018 - Apr 2022
Network Engineer | Moving Forward IT
- Designed, deployed, and maintained secure network infrastructures (Cisco, Ubiquiti, Fortinet).
- Led network security initiatives including firewall rule audits and intrusion prevention systems.
- Provided Tier 3 escalation support for networking-related incidents.
Education & Certifications
Education
Bachelor of Science, IT Management
Western Governors University
A competency-based program focused on the core skills of information technology, project management, and business leadership required to solve complex, real-world challenges.
Project Highlights
Network Security Overhaul
Fortifying Foundations: Comprehensive network security and compliance upgrade for a non-profit organization.
Impact: Achieved full compliance with modern industry standards, enhancing data protection and organizational resilience.
Large-Scale Cloud Transformation
Scalability Unlocked: Strategic migration of legacy infrastructure to modern, high-performance cloud solutions.
Impact: Streamlined operational processes and provided the organization with the flexibility and scalability required for future growth.
Strategic IT Roadmap & Planning
Clarity for the Future: Comprehensive IT infrastructure assessment and strategic technology roadmap for a growing small business.
Impact: Delivered a detailed report and a 3-year plan to align IT with business objectives and growth projections.
M365 Email & Collaboration Migration
Cutting the Cord: Seamless migration of an on-premises Exchange server (50+ mailboxes) to Microsoft 365.
Impact: Dramatically improved email reliability, enhanced scalability, and enabled secure access to mail across all modern devices.
Get In Touch
I'm currently open to new opportunities and my inbox is always open. Whether you have a question or just want to connect, I'll do my best to get back to you!
Say Hello