March 22, 2016
Hard-work, humility, and a fun dynamic are just a few phrases that shape our company culture. Being a team-player and having accountability are unique traits that an individual can have. This month meet the “guru” of all things IT related who makes a majority of our infrastructure possible, Miguel Herrera, IT Administrator at York, and learn more about his active role and a passion of his which keeps the office lively and upbeat!
Can you tell us a little bit about your role?
I’m the IT administrator for York and since 2005 I’ve managed our network infrastructure and supported our internal staff’s IT support needs. I’m responsible for new software implementation, email, company data management, Internet connectivity and IT security. Simply put, anything plugged into an outlet is what I’m responsible for.
Where did you go to school?
Growing up in Chicago’s north side after graduating from Gordon Technical College Prep, I attended DeVry University finishing with an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science in Electronics.
What drew you to York Solutions?
York’s culture and work/life balance is one of a kind. The work environment and the people lend themselves to give and receive feedback that helps us improve as a person and in our role in the organization.
What has been your biggest accomplishment since working here?
On a personal level, I’ve been able support my family and provide the lifestyle that my wife and I always wanted. Professionally, the growth of what I’m passionate about and what I do best in my career. Day-to-day challenges and victories continually increase my knowledge within the IT field and the people that I support. Also, taking on big projects like network redesign, software overhaul, and data migrations are great experiences resulting with increased user productivity and IT resource reliability.
Why do you like coming to work every day?
I really enjoy having the opportunity to work on things that I’m passionate about, collaborate with great colleagues, and at the end of the week, I get paid for doing what I love to do.
Who has influenced you the most, either professionally or personally?
There are actually two people right here within York who have influenced me. One of them is our CEO Bill Carr, who I look to as a mentor. From my first time interviewing with him up until this point, we have built a very honest and open work relationship and friendship. He’s someone that I look to very often for advice because I really value his opinion. The other person that has influenced me is our Director of IT, Robb Lucas. I really do learn a great deal from him and I find it very easy to feed off of his thinking for new ideas and approaches to common issues that come up. I feel like we work really well together and as with Bill, I do very much value Robb’s opinion.
How do you spend your time outside of the office?
I enjoy all things outdoors—hunting, camping, house maintenance, and working on my car. Our family loves to go camping in the summertime when the kids are out of school. I take care of everything; I pack up the car, I pitch the tent, and make breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all of us. I think it’s a good idea to get everything together for them so that they can just enjoy the experience. For me, family is everything. I also like helping out coaching my kid’s football team, as well as keeping up with politics and the government so that I know what’s happening in the world around me.
Do you have a hidden talent or something interesting that most people do not know about you?
I play the saxophone and DJ my favorite music like Techno, House, Drum & Bass, and other EDM.
What is your favorite quote or what motivates you?
You live and learn!
Do you haveany book suggestions/professional development/any professional advice you would tell yourself 5 years ago?
The 5 Levels of Leadership – by John C. Maxwell
Get to know our other featured employees here!
Posted By: Anastasia Hoosman