Employee Spotlight: Justin Torlone, IT Manager
Background:
I started IT right out of high school as a system administrator intern. I really liked helping people through technology. I went into the managed service provider (MSP) world, providing outsourced IT services for over 80 different companies. Then, I got to Makpar which was a much better fit.
Joining Makpar:
I first learned about Makpar through my wife Vanessa who had been working there for about a year and a half. We had a really good relationship with Seema and Mushtaq so it just felt right. I came in to create the internal IT system Makpar didn't have yet and support business development operations. Anywhere I was needed, I was there. Prior to me, Mushtaq and Kaamil bought and set up all of the laptops themselves. I got to create a scalable system for the whole company and have been building it up ever since.
How have you grown while at Makpar?:
I've been here 4 years in total. I've grown in many ways in that time. My professional approach to my emotions has grown. I've learned to deal with setbacks in a better way. I've learned a lot from being able to watch how I speak, which I picked up from working with recruiting. I've learned a lot of skills from working with different departments.
I went from being the IT manager to becoming responsible for all of Makpar's security, service desk efforts, and IT's ISO process. I got to learn hands-on by creating a scalable, secure internal IT system for Makpar.
What drew you to Makpar originally?:
I heard nothing but good stuff from Vanessa. It's a small company that I have seen grow in great ways. I felt like I could really help and make an impact. I love that there's a work life balance here with an emphasis on family-first.
What's your favorite thing about working at Makpar?:
Definitely the flexibility to communicate with management. The founders (Mushtaq and Seema) are always available to talk. I love being able to work from home, balance work with taking care of my kids. The family-first emphasis is great. I'll never forget Seema told me, "Work can wait. Be with your family."
Advice to new Makpar employees?:
Be vocal. Get involved. If you're vocal and find different ways to get involved, you'll stand out. There's plenty of opportunities to get involved in the corporate side, even outside of contracts. When small companies go places, they'll always remember who was there at the beginning.