Michael Ramsey

As a seasoned IT professional with over 30 years of leadership experience, I excel in driving transformative initiatives and managing complex technology environments. Currently serving as Senior Director of IT Infrastructure at Wake County Public Schools, I oversee critical IT operations and lead strategic projects that enhance service delivery and operational efficiency across North Carolina’s largest school district. Previously, I spearheaded the $36M NC School Connectivity Initiative, recognized by Government Technology for “Outstanding Leadership & Innovation.” My expertise spans IT infrastructure, program management, vendor relations, and public sector technology, with a strong focus on collaboration and customer-centric solutions. I’m a creative problem-solver passionate about fostering high-performing teams, streamlining workflows, and implementing innovative strategies that deliver measurable results. With certifications in ITIL Foundations, Project Management, and Educational Technology Leadership, I bring a blend of technical proficiency and executive acumen to every challenge. Beyond my professional life, I’m an active community leader, serving as a veteran chaplain, mentor, and emergency communications trainer. I believe in lifelong learning, continuous improvement, and giving back to the community. Let’s connect to discuss how I can bring value through leadership, collaboration, and technology-driven solutions.

Manage the $36M NC School Connectivity Initiative providing Internet-based services to over 290 public school systems. I lead a team of remote-based E-rate Coordinators providing federal E-rate program training and support to schools and libraries, assist school CTOs in the development and implementation of technology plans, provide infrastructure guidance and tactical response to critical IT issues, deliver quarterly in-person regional updates and training to Technology Directors and their staff, and manage over 30 vendor relationships. In 2022, recognized by Government Technology for “Outstanding Leadership & Innovation” in North Carolina.

Maintained a 500-host campus LAN infrastructure. Installed and maintained a microwave-based statewide WAN interconnecting North Carolina universities, colleges, and schools to the Internet.

Responsible for 24/7 operation of a three-state, twenty-seven site Internet Service Provider network with over four hundred high-speed customer connections. Staff of seventeen provided network engineering, customer support, and network restoration.

Responsible for daily operations of service provider voice/data testing facility supporting 250 test engineers. Directed team of 15 with expertise in Class-5 PSTN voice switching, network engineering, systems administration, software development, logistical support, and infrastructure support. Successfully changed mission of team from providing total hands-on support to building automated tools and providing training to empower testers and streamline workflows.

Developed the infrastructure to enable a telephone company to begin offering data/internet services over existing nine-state ATM network. Created operational processes and procedures, trained and managed 22 technical staff across four states, and lead the development of automated provisioning tools to enable four individuals to provision and install first 500 clients within seven months.

Managed the development and implementation of $12M product line, coordinating across all business units, developing significant customer relationships, and responsible to the CEO for profit/loss. Peered with top graduates from UNC’s Kenan-Flagler MBA program.

Maintained a 500-host campus LAN infrastructure. Installed and maintained a microwave-based statewide WAN interconnecting North Carolina universities, colleges, and schools to the Internet.

As initial network engineer, installed first twelve points-of-presence, developed implementation plans directly with customers, and established the operational standards. Performed basic systems administration duties, including maintaining DNS, SMTP and POP3 services. Managed BGP4 peering sessions between 30 other service providers at several Internet exchange points. Co-authored IETF RFC 2196 “Site Security Handbook.”.

Maintained data communications between ship, shore, and aircraft platforms. Awarded Navy Achievement Medal for extensive repairs to major system without aid of documentation. SECRET clearance.