Austen Young
Available for Hire

Austen Young

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY | CYBERSECURITY | WEB SPECIALIST

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, CANADA

Hello, I'm Austen Young, an Information Technology Specialist and Cybersecurity enthusiast with a strong foundation in server environments, IT infrastructure, and web development. I specialize in leading IT initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and security, with hands-on experience in managing physical and cloud-based systems, optimizing networks, and ensuring robust data protection.

Throughout my career, I've designed and implemented secure hosting environments, developed and maintained websites, and established reliable IT infrastructures tailored to meet diverse business needs. My expertise includes configuring virtualized environments like Proxmox, managing Linux and Windows server systems, and setting up secure VPN solutions. I take pride in building responsive and visually engaging websites, ensuring performance, accessibility, and security at every stage.

Beyond the technical aspects, I excel at team leadership, problem-solving, and translating complex technical challenges into clear, actionable solutions. Whether troubleshooting systems, optimizing hardware, or deploying comprehensive IT solutions, I'm driven by the goal of delivering high-quality results that align with organizational goals. If you're looking for a skilled professional who combines technical proficiency with a strategic approach to IT, I'd be excited to collaborate and contribute to your success. Let's create solutions that work seamlessly for your business!

Read my full Resume

Experience

June 2025 - Current

Volunteer IT and Software Team Lead

HSDE Canada
  • Provided leadership and strategic direction across IT operations and software initiatives to strengthen the organization’s technical capabilities.
  • Directed the successful migration from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365, ensuring seamless data transfer, user onboarding, and improved collaboration across departments.
  • Supervised ongoing administration of Microsoft 365, including Exchange, SharePoint, and Teams environments, while implementing policies for security and compliance.
  • Managed the organization’s Non-Profit AWS Lightsail Infrastructure, designing and maintaining virtual environments to support both internal operations and public-facing applications.
  • Deployed and configured Lightsail instances for hosting websites, internal portals, and application backends, optimizing performance and cost efficiency.
  • Set up managed databases, SSL certificates, and static IPs within Lightsail to ensure secure and reliable hosting solutions for organizational needs.
  • Oversaw domain transfers and DNS management using Route 53 and Lightsail DNS zones, maintaining proper routing for email, web, and API endpoints.
  • Implemented automated backup and snapshot routines in Lightsail to safeguard data and ensure rapid disaster recovery.
  • Introduced cybersecurity best practices, including MFA enforcement, IAM management, access auditing, and endpoint protection across all platforms.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align IT infrastructure with organizational objectives and support ongoing digital transformation efforts.
  • Oversaw software development initiatives, managing version control, deployment workflows, and coordination between developers, leadership, and stakeholders.
  • Provided mentorship and technical guidance to IT volunteers, enhancing team skill sets in systems administration, cloud hosting, and web technologies.
  • Improved operational reliability through proactive monitoring and maintenance of Lightsail resources, ensuring consistent uptime and optimized resource utilization.
November 2021 - Current

President

CloudLocal Technologies
  • Managed VPS for client hosting solutions
  • Configured and maintained Wazuh SIEM tools
  • Secured company desktops and servers with Bitdefender GravityZone
  • Developed and maintained websites using HTML, PHP, and WordPress
  • Managed MySQL and MariaDB databases
  • Led digital marketing efforts via Google Ads and Facebook Ads
June 2025 - August 2025

Venue Maintenance and Tech Specialist Contractor

Roar Communications Inc.
  • Hardware & Software Support: Diagnose and resolve technical issues with digital tablets and digital wall screens
  • Networking Solutions: Configure, install, and troubleshoot Wi-Fi networks
  • Network Diagnostics: Perform in-depth network diagnostics
  • On-Site Repairs: Repair or replace faulty components
  • Venue Engagement & Customer Relations
  • Inventory & Reporting Management
  • Collaboration with Support Teams
February 2025 - June 2025

Information Technology Sub-Contractor

Freelance
  • Partnered with leading IT firms to deliver technical support
  • Installed and configured critical networking hardware
  • Performed structured cabling and tested network reliability
  • Installed UPS systems to protect client infrastructure
  • Mounted and configured server racks
  • Installed, configured, and managed Windows Server environments
May 2023 - January 2025

Lead Information Technology Specialist

Wa-Say Healing Centre
  • Managed and maintained office systems, computers, and servers.
  • Set up self-hosted IT infrastructures, including VoIP phones and RMM tools.
  • Upgraded hardware components (e.g., SSD, RAM) for better performance.
  • Designed and deployed hosting environments using Proxmox, Cyberpanel, and AWS.
  • Installed and configured NVR and security camera systems.
  • Troubleshot and resolved end-user IT issues.
  • Managed and maintained a Microsoft 365 Non-Profit account acquired through TechSoup grants, including user provisioning, license allocation, and ongoing administration of Exchange, Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive.
  • Set up and managed a self-hosted WordPress environment.
  • Managed DNS configurations for smooth network operations.
  • Implemented office network infrastructure.
  • Created UI elements and designs using Adobe Photoshop and Canva.
  • Used WebRoot Cybersecurity and Imunify360 for security management.
  • Established WireGuard VPN Tunnels for secure remote access.
September 2022 - May 2023

IT Specialist Contractor

ITspace DoITRight Inc.
  • Managed client systems using RMM software
  • Provided IT support and troubleshooting
  • Administered server environments for clients
  • Worked with Windows, Linux, and MacOS console commands
  • Configured NAS backups and RAID systems
February 2022 - September 2022

Web and IT Specialist

Bullwhip Logistics
  • Set up VoIP phone systems and integrated RingCentral
  • Developed CRM modules in SuiteCRM
  • Managed WordPress website updates
  • Integrated APIs for real-time package tracking
June 2021 - February 2022

Web and Software Designer

Volleyball Winnipeg
  • Used ZOHO and SuiteCRM for client management
  • Managed cloud hosting environments
  • Designed and implemented CRM modules
  • Developed eCommerce systems

Education

Red River College Polytech

Cybersecurity

2025

Murdoch Mackay Collegiate

Honour Roll

2015 - 2019

Skills

HTML / CSS
Cybersecurity
SOC Infrastructure
IT Infrastructure
Microsoft 365 Administration
JavaScript
Python
WordPress
Server Management
Ubuntu / Debian
Windows Desktop / Server
Network Management
Kali-Linux
Proxmox / Hyper-V
NVR Systems

Projects

Proxmox Project

Proxmox Virtualization

Project Overview

The tower PC on the right serves as the Proxmox server, hosting multiple virtual machines (VMs). Proxmox provides an efficient platform for running and managing VMs, optimizing IT and SOC resources.

Key Features:
  • HP laptop connects to VM running on Proxmox
  • ThinkPad runs Proxmox web interface for management
  • WireGuard VPN hosted on AWS for secure remote access
  • Encrypted communication preventing RDP exposure
  • Hosting Wazuh and Suricata for an in-depth mini SOC Infrastructure.
CloudLocal Website

CloudLocal Technologies Website

Project Overview

I designed and developed the official website for CloudLocal Technologies using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, and JavaScript.

Key Features:
  • HTML & CSS: Structured content and visually appealing design
  • Bootstrap: Mobile-first framework for responsive layout
  • JavaScript: Enhanced user interaction
  • Cross-Device: Optimized for all screen sizes

Retail Store Server Rack & Network Infrastructure Upgrade

Project Overview

Upgraded back-office IT infrastructure for a major retail store to ensure improved network reliability, power redundancy, and future scalability.

Key Deliverables:
  • Server rack overhaul with APC Smart-UPS installation
  • Business-class router with VLAN and QoS capabilities
  • Managed PoE+ switches for IP devices
  • Structured cabling with Cat6 and professional organization

Cloud Corp Phishing Awareness Test

Project Overview

A React-based phishing awareness game that simulates realistic email scenarios and challenges users to spot red flags. Designed as a fun, interactive way to teach cybersecurity fundamentals.

Key Deliverables:
  • Interactive phishing email scenarios with increasing difficulty.
  • Dynamic feedback system that explains why emails are safe or malicious.
  • Mobile-friendly UI and accessible layout.
  • State-managed game flow using React hooks.
Why I Made It

Phishing remains one of the most common attack vectors. I wanted to create a hands-on learning tool that feels more like a game than a lecture, blending my interests in cybersecurity and front-end development.

View Project →

Designs

Elmwood Supply Company

Elmwood Supply Company

View Website
Wa-Say Healing Centre

Wa-Say Healing Centre

View Website
Travality Consulting

Travality Consulting

View Website
IATech

IATech

View Website
Talentry Gaming Solutions

Talentry Gaming Solutions

View Website

Interests

Apart from my professional life in IT and Cybersecurity, I spend most of my time working out at the gym, hanging out and talking with friends, I love eating food, and cooking as well. I am a master chef in the kitchen for protein-based meals.

A fun fact about me is that I lost almost 145 lbs (325lbs to 180lbs) since 2022. I believe that with hard work and dedication, you can make anything happen.

I've also been actively involved in the Game Design scene in my free time, and have a separate portfolio regarding that for a game I worked on in 2021. See here.

Certifications

  • Google Cybersecurity Professional
  • Board Infinity - Kali Linux Certificate
  • Murdoch Mackay Honours in Computer Science and Interactive Web

Let's Work Together

I'm currently open to freelance opportunities and contract gigs. Whether you're a business needing technical expertise or a designer looking to collaborate on IT or Web projects, I'm always open to new and exciting challenges. Let's build something great together.

🖥️

IT Infrastructure

Server management, network setup, and system optimization

🔒

Cybersecurity

Security audits, SIEM configuration, and threat protection

🌐

Web Development

Custom websites, WordPress, and responsive design

📧 Email Me 📱 Call Me

Contact

📱
Phone
(204) 290-3267
📍
Location

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada