We interviewed Carnell Smith, one of MindPoint Group’s Automation Engineers. As one of our resident automation experts, you’ll hear from what it is like to work directly with customers to solve some of their greatest security challenges.
What is your through the typical day like?
I typically start my day going through email and checking in on tickets. Once I’m done with that, I switch over to Jira to see what tickets I’m going to be working on for the day. From there, I deep-dive into the automation process. I’ve currently been working on a lot of customer-facing documentation like FAQs, how-to docs, which have been really cool.
What are the biggest challenges you face in a day?
The biggest challenge I face in a day is finding a solution to a security problem that is going to be easy enough for a customer to follow. I try to find a solution where they can read the documentation and pick something up right away.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Even though creating these solutions can be a challenge, it’s also my favorite part of the job. I love that I get to be creative every day, and use problem-solving skills. I also get to have a voice in what we’re providing to the customer and it’s cool to work with them to experiment on developing custom solutions. We’re providing a lot of value to our customers on a daily basis, so it’s really awesome to be a part of that.
How did you get started with working in technology/security?
I started with technology when I was just 14 years old. My dad had me create a program to code a basic computer language print statement. It was from there that I realized technology was a way to be creative and help people. I went on to get several degrees in computers, including a Masters in Computer Information Systems.
All throughout my career, I either created or managed systems. Time and time again, I kept seeing that security was left out of those processes and plans — or only added in as an afterthought. I wanted to be a part of changing that and showing the importance of security.
Why do you love cybersecurity?
I love security because when it’s done correctly, it’s amazing what difference it can make for a customer. There are a million ways to do something in most cases, but security only works well if you incorporate it from the beginning of the cycle. Being a part of that cycle is so interesting to work on.
All throughout my career I either created or managed systems, and I kept seeing the security part was left out of that. A lot of times people want to add the security later, if you add it in the beginning, you are securing that data and have it from the full lifecycle
A million ways to do something, but the only way to do security is to incorporate security at the development cycle.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m a husband and father which is my biggest priority. I also love to ride motorcycles, travel, and do any outdoor activities, like fishing!
What is your favorite part of MindPoint Group?
My favorite part about MPG is that the company really allows you to have input in everything you do. Not only do they let you have input, but they stand behind you on that process as well.,
I also really like the importance they place on developing your skillsets. They offer training and opportunities for growth so you can really tell they believe in their employees.
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