Week 3 of "Saturday Spotlight with Layer 2 Computers" is here!
This Saturday, we're thrilled to introduce you to Collin, one of our Technology Specialists. Join us as we uncover Collin's talents and dedication to providing top-notch tech solutions. Enjoy getting to know a little more about Collin!
What is your role & how long have you been with Layer 2 Computers?
Technology Specialist, just over 18 months! It’s flown by, I’ve learned a ton and I feel like I still have a world of knowledge to learn.
What inspired you to pursue a career in tech support?
My love of PCs at home sparked my interest, and once I began building PCs for myself/friends/family, it seemed like a no brainer. I tried nursing – it was not for me, but I still wanted to help people. This seemed like a perfect fit, since I loved to work with computers already!
Are there any memorable moments or experiences from your career that you'd like to share?
Working with clients at businesses to get employees or services up and running is always satisfying. I also enjoy and remember every gaming PC build that we are asked to put together! Those are really fun and are basically building a dream PC, so building gaming PCs is satisfying when it’s all finished and working well.
How do you stay up-to-date with the constant advancements in the tech field?
Through research/browsing at home, recommended articles from Google re: the latest hardware/sales. I usually like to look at what’s out there every few months to look for price drops or a good deal, and I find new things that way.
Do you have any favorite tools or software that you use at work?
Fabs auto backup is a wonderful tool for transferring data and I would be lost without it! Other than that, CoreTemp is great for testing CPU temperatures on new builds. It’s lightweight and does what it says! Teams is also very enjoyable, because of my wonderful coworkers who are always there to help or laugh or support as needed.
Tell us about life outside of work
I was born in Toledo, and moved to Centerville as a child, where I graduated. I moved back up to Toledo for a few years for school and work, met my now-wife, and moved back down to the Centerville area where we are currently saving for our first home! We have 2 perfect (in our eyes) cats, named Pin and Pepperjack.
What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?
Video games, of course – although the busier the work day, the more I want to read a book or just spend time with my wife or cats! We love to go on nature walks to get fresh air, and we often spend time with my mother watching Jeopardy!
What's your favorite travel destination or dream vacation spot?
Of the places I have been, Grand Cayman has been consistently the best experience and I always love to go back. The water is crystal clear all around, you can pet stingrays, and there is a ton of great food and shopping on the island after you’re tired of the beach! My dream vacation would be to Poland, where my great grandparents were born.
Are there any books, movies, or TV shows you're currently enjoying or recommend?
I love animated comedies like Futurama (my favorite by far) and American Dad, as well as It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. I should read more, but I am currently reading “Goodbye, Eastern Europe” by Jacob Mikanowski – a nonfiction about the history and current status of Eastern Europe, from the earliest records to the modern day.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with our audience, whether it's a fun fact, a favorite quote, or a simple message?
Favorite quote/proverb: “Blessed is he who plants trees under whose shade he will never sit.”
