I work with businesses that keep America running — trucking companies, industrial contractors, and manufacturers.

These aren’t just separate industries. They’re connected in how they move, build, and produce. At Vantage Point Risk, we don’t treat them like isolated risks. We see the overlap. A supply chain issue in a manufacturing plant might impact a trucking client tomorrow. A contractor’s job site hazards can look a lot like exposures on a shop floor.

That’s where I come in.

I help business owners get clear answers, practical protection, and a partner who understands how their work fits into the bigger picture. It’s not about selling a policy — it’s about making sure your operation can keep moving without unnecessary surprises.

Let's talk if you're in trucking, trades, or manufacturing and want coverage that fits how your business runs.

Richard S.

The Nerd Stuff

Leadership & Strategy
Set company direction, drive growth initiatives, and help lead our transition to EOS for better structure and accountability.
Sales & Business Development
Lead outreach and networking efforts, including cold calling, local events, and strategic partnerships.
Developed our discovery process, onboarding framework, and customer journey to support high-trust, long-term relationships.
Closed new MSP contracts by replacing underperforming providers and simplifying IT for busy decision-makers.

MSP Operations
Oversee IT transitions, software migrations (including Google to Microsoft 365), and client onboarding from legacy environments.
Work with vendors to deliver scalable, secure solutions without overcomplicating things.
Created structured pricing and proactive support plans that actually make sense for small business owners.

Communication & Education
Wrote our IT Buyer’s Guide and educational content to help clients understand what they’re buying without the jargon.
Regularly present at networking groups and client meetings on topics like cybersecurity, compliance, and productivity.

President

Partnered Solutions IT

Advanced troubleshooting (Windows Server, DNS, DHCP, Active Directory)
Microsoft 365 migrations and email cutovers (Exchange Online)
Network setup & diagnostics (firewalls, VLANs, switches, Ubiquiti, etc.)
Endpoint security management (EDR tools, patching, policies)
Backup solutions (e.g., Acronis, Veeam, ShadowProtect)
Remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools
Scripting basics (PowerShell, batch, etc.)
Project implementation: office moves, ISP transitions, network upgrades
Escalation point for Tier 1 issues and mentor for junior techs

System Administrator

Marist Catholic High School

Provided Tier 1 & Tier 2 support for staff and students (Windows/macOS)

Managed user accounts, email (likely Google Workspace), and access control
Handled hardware repairs, printer maintenance, and classroom tech issues
Trained teachers and staff on basic IT tools and troubleshooting
Supported education software (SIS, LMS platforms like PowerSchool, Canvas, etc.)

Network Infrastructure
Managed wired and wireless networks (switches, access points, firewalls)
Configured and maintained VLANs, DHCP, DNS, and basic routing
Monitored uptime, resolved connectivity issues, and implemented network upgrades
Maintained internet filtering and content control systems (e.g., GoGuardian, Barracuda, etc.)

Security & Compliance
Maintained student data privacy in line with FERPA/CIPA requirements
Managed content filtering, device policies, and acceptable use enforcement
Deployed antivirus, performed regular patching and updates

Project Work
Assisted with or led deployments of new network equipment, server migrations, or student device rollouts (e.g., iPads)

Worked cross-functionally with administration and teaching staff to align tech needs with academic goals.

IT Specialist

Pacific Rim Insurance

Sales executive

Deus Machine LLC

Manage project manage and assemble servers, networks, workstations

Technical Operation Coordinator

Seaside School district

IT Support

Nation, Salvage Sale

Assist in maintaining school technology infrastructure.

Technology Generalist

Northern Illinois University

*	Provided customer service and public face for lab operations
*	Assisted in supervising operations of 170 lab attendants
*	Conducted quality control spot checks for lab operations

Office Assistant and Technician

Director of Technology for Student Assosiation

Student Association

*	Managed personnel and equipment
*	Lead 5-6 person team to set up computer lab networks
*	Diagnosed and troubleshoot software and hardware problems
*	Built, maintained, and repaired computers
*	Reordered inventory for 25,000 pieces of equipment
*	Researched and advised in equipment purchasing
*	Provided customer service for Freshmen Orientation computer lab five summers in a row

Lab Supervisor

*	Maintained security of the computer lab

Lab Attendant

President Pro Tempore

*	Ran weekly Student Senate meetings
	Director of Information Technology, August 2006 to May 2007
*	Maintained, diagnosed and repaired office equipment (30 computers) 
*	Installed and ran office network server
*	Designed and updated Student Association website
*	Uploaded and maintained the websites of over 200 student organizations on the NIU
server
*	Served

Student Representative

Tower Resort

*	Managed, scheduled and supervised up to ten associates

Banquet Assistant Manager

Specialties: computer hardware,  consulting,  credit,  customer service,  information technology,  inventory management,  Problem solving,  meeting facilitation,  microsoft office,  networking,  office equipment,  personnel,  purchasing,  quality control,   supervisory skills,  troubleshooting,  web site production,

taplio

The Battle

Richard S.

Brent West

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