Cybersecurity / IT

Learn more about me
ABOUT
IT Professional/Cybersecurity Enthusiast
Hi, I'm Ahsan Qureshi, a IT professional with dual degrees in Cybersecurity and Business Management.
🎓 Education & Certifications
• I recently graduated with a Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity & Information Assurance from Western Governors University. Coupled with my Bachelor’s in Business Management from the University of Houston Clear Lake, I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and business acumen to the IT world.
• I hold a range of industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA PenTest+, CySA+, Security+, Project+, Network+, A+, ISC2 SSCP, ITIL 4 IT Service Management, and Linux Essentials LPI, showcasing my comprehensive skill set across security, networking, and project management.
🌐 My Professional Journey
• As a Desktop Support Analyst at Skyward Specialty Insurance, I manage a range of technical challenges, ensuring seamless IT operations in a hybrid work environment. My focus is on troubleshooting, maintaining security, and managing system configurations.
• I’ve also worked as a Service Desk Analyst at Harris County Toll Road, where I developed a solid foundation in Cisco technologies and system administration.
• In my role as a System Engineer at Total Safety, I led complex installations, developed comprehensive data packages, and conducted hands-on repairs on critical systems.
• My early career began at Edge Wireless Communications Inc., where I excelled as a Store Manager and Tech III, sharpening my technical and leadership skills.
🔒 My Passion for Cybersecurity
• Cybersecurity is my passion, and I am driven by a desire to build secure, efficient systems that protect organizations from evolving threats. I’ve gained valuable hands-on experience, and my ongoing learning keeps me at the forefront of the industry.
• With my diverse background in both technical and business disciplines, I aim to bridge the gap between IT security and strategic business objectives.
🚀 What Drives Me
• I believe in continuous improvement and innovation, always striving to make systems and processes better.
• I am also deeply committed to fostering strong communication and collaboration within teams to achieve high-quality results.
💡 Let’s Connect
I’m always eager to connect with like-minded professionals in cybersecurity and IT. Let’s collaborate, share insights, and explore opportunities to create secure and efficient technological solutions.
SKILLS
Certifications
-
CompTIA Pentest+
-
CompTIA CySA+
-
CompTIA Security+
-
CompTIA Project+
-
CompTIA Network +
-
ComTIA A+ Core 1 + Core 2
-
ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
-
ITIL 4 Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management
-
LPI Linux Essentials Certification
10/23 – Present
Desktop Support Analyst /
Skyward Specialty Insurance
-
Reduced average ticket resolution time by over 53% (from 15 to 7 days) through the introduction of weekly ticket prioritization meetings, expediting responses to critical security and operational issues.
-
Authored PowerShell scripts to automate repetitive tasks, increasing efficiency and reducing risks associated with manual operations in system and security management.
-
Collaborated with the security team as the first line of defense during incidents, addressing vulnerabilities, responding to alerts, and escalating critical issues.
-
Collaborate with the GRC team to support quarterly user access reviews, ensuring adherence to SOX compliance standards by verifying appropriate access controls across critical systems.
-
Led a company-wide Windows OS upgrade impacting over 500 devices, ensuring enhanced security features and compliance with organizational policies.
06/23 – 10/23
Service Desk Analyst /
Harris County Toll Road
-
Leveraged expertise in Cisco technologies, encompassing Cisco CUCM, NICE, and Finesse, to effectively contribute to system administration and support.
-
Demonstrated prowess in maintaining Microsoft patch compliance using Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, safeguarding system security and stability.
-
Diagnosed and rectified network port issues, guaranteeing uninterrupted connectivity, leveraging tools such as Fluke LinkRunners and Toners to streamline troubleshooting processes.
-
Executed computer repairs and reimaging operations proficiently through the utilization of the Acronis platform, ensuring systems were restored to optimal working conditions.
-
Monitored and swiftly addressed technical issues by effectively managing incoming Cherwell tickets, delivering adept support to users through phone, email, and in-person interactions.
-
Managed user accounts in Active Directory, overseeing user additions, removals, and password resets to maintain secure access and data integrity.
06/21 – 05/23
Senior Systems Engineer /
Total Safety
-
Proficiently install and configure operating systems, software, and hardware components, ensuring proper documentation of design, maintenance, and support procedures for routine tasks to enhance the efficiency of IT support staff.
-
Developed comprehensive job data packages for customers that incorporated analytics derived from datasets with varying sizes, ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 entries. Ensured compliance with OSHA guidelines by including additional data such as gas detection logs, entry logs, key performance indicators, and camera footage.
-
Proficiently assembled and configured intricate computer systems, incorporating multiple touchscreens, advanced switch technology, and uninterrupted power supply (UPS) units.
-
Demonstrated advanced technical proficiency by conducting hands-on repairs on a wide variety of critical equipment, including Power over Ethernet (PoE) devices, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) batteries, and access control units.
-
Support software development efforts by creating test cases, identifying bugs, and providing feedback on areas for improvement.
-
Continuously develop new methods to enhance system performance, simplify installation, improve diagnostics, boost quality, and reduce cycle time for complex systems.
03/18 – 06/21
Store Manager (Tech III) /
Edge Repair & Protection
Technical
-
Conducted hardware diagnostics to identify the root cause of issues with phones, tablets, laptops, and computers.
-
Replaced damaged components such as screens, batteries, charging ports, speakers, and cameras.
-
Utilized specialized tools and equipment to disassemble and reassemble devices.
-
Provided recommendations for aftermarket modifications, such as custom firmware or hardware upgrades.
-
Troubleshot complex issues and provided solutions to customers.
Operational
-
Achieved and exceeded all qualitative and quantitative (KPI) targets for the store as defined by the company. Increased revenue 36% since 2018.
-
Supported human resources processes by administering tests, scheduling appointments, conducting orientation, maintaining records and information.
-
Executed monthly staff performance evaluations to make necessary improvements. Average productivity increased 22% over previous year.
-
Collected timesheet data and payroll information, entering data into payroll and administrative databases and software programs.
-
Hired and trained 5 technicians to become hardworking team members with strong technical ability.
WORK EXPERIENCE
EDUCATION
Bachelor's Degree, Cybersecurity & Information Assurance
Western Governors University / Graduated:2024
Bachelor of Science in Business Management
University of Houston Clear-Lake / Graduated:2019