The RiTA Thesis
Too many consumers of integrated technology systems end up with an expensive product that doesn’t fulfill their needs. This outcome is often due to the lack of practical knowledge held by the audience that is responsible for translating the customer’s expressed requirements into a working product. Therefore, a game of telephone begins between a sales team, project managers, project engineers, and technicians as they scramble to formulate a solution. With each new individual added to the process, important details describing the customer’s unique requirements are lost. In the end, this inefficient operation will push the final product closer to a simplified cookie-cutter result instead of the custom-tailored solution that each customer deserves.
Working with RiTA removes the aforementioned roadblocks that plague most solutions providers. It gives you access to someone who has not only designed systems, but managed their deployment, programmed them, wired them up, and maintained them. Because of this, you can be assured that your needs and wants will always be translated into a detailed, thorough, and distinct solution that satisfies your desires.
Andrew’s Story
Andrew entered the world of low-voltage integration in 2001 while studying Audio Arts & Acoustics at Columbia College in Chicago, IL. While studying the art of recording and mixing music he noticed his attention shifting to the wiring, design, and setup of the plethora of equipment he was using in the studio. After taking a few classes in system design, CAD, and computer programming, he was hooked and looking for a job. A killer candidate that could record and mix your album, wire your studio, explain the benefits of a star grounding scheme, and troubleshoot your DAW.
Unfortunately, attempts at breaking into the world of commercial A/V were unsuccessful until one day where a resume submitted received an interesting response. The company was looking to hire, but was also moving away from A/V and into the world of security. After meeting with the prospective employer, Andrew was convinced to give it a shot, and his career was born.
The security world would meet him with open arms, letting him transfer all of his knowledge in signal flow, block diagrams, and troubleshooting, into a whole new world. Working initially as a Technical Sales Engineer for a successful Manufacturer’s Rep Firm, his introduction to the industry gave him the opportunity to get to know industry stalwarts, local integrators, and multiple notable clients. As he gained experience, he became familiar with the structure of the world of systems integration.
In the following twenty-five years Andrew would spend time with multiple successful low-voltage integrators and consulting firms, holding titles such as Project Engineer, Technical Support Manager, Project Manager, and Senior Consulting Engineer. During that timeframe, he would work closely with numerous prestigious clients in multiple sectors including Insurance, Real Estate, Professional Sports, Retail, Education, Technology, and Museums. His expertise was put to use on integrated Access Control, Intrusion Detection, and Video Surveillance systems, working on projects of all sizes, including multiple enterprise solutions that spanned across the globe.
With each project, his direct experience with end users informed him of the deficiencies in the world of integration. Too often, he found that customer’s needs were not met. These encounters compelled him to start RiTA to apply his unique abilities to both listen to and document customers needs as well as implement the best solutions.
RiTA Technology Services suggests that you to ask a simple question: If you have needs, why not talk directly with the man who can craft your solution? Someone who wants to determine the best plan of action, execute that plan, and get back home to play with his dogs as soon as possible. A win-win in a world that needs it.
Certificates & Qualifications
While education and certificates don’t tell the whole story, they certainly do help. With that in mind, I’m proud to document my qualifications to help provide a look into my background.
Education:
Columbia College Chicago
Bachelor of Arts in Audio Arts & Acoustics
Graduated in 2003
DeVry University
Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology
Graduated in 2016
Manufacturer Certifications:
Genetec – Security Center Omincast Technical Certification
Genetec – Security Center Synergis Technical Certification
LenelS2 – OnGuard Certified Associate
Milestone Systems – Milestone Certified Integration Technician
Software House – CCURE 9000 Advanced Integrator
Additional Certifications:
CompTIA Network +
CompTIA Security +
EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (Master)
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals