About Me

My name is Chance Gearhart and I’ve spent my career in IT, with a focus on network engineering, systems administration, and information security. Since starting my career in IT in 2006, I’ve developed a deep passion for networking, which I’ve nurtured through hands-on experience, continuous learning, and a commitment to technical excellence.

How I Got Here

My journey in IT began with a drive to learn and grow. Early on, I was working as a last-mile wireless technician when I started training in networking. That training paid off when my job became obsolete, but I was able to transition to a networking role—a move that changed my career trajectory. In 2011, I earned my CCNA with a 97% score, and while it expired in 2013, the knowledge I gained has carried me through numerous challenges and opportunities in the years since.

Career Highlights

I’ve had the privilege of working on projects that have pushed my skills and broadened my expertise, from simplifying network infrastructures to supporting national security initiatives.

• Expeditors International of Washington, Inc. (2025 - Present):  As a Data Centers Network Engineer, I am responsible for the design and implementation of a large enterprise network with 350 locations and over 19k employees. As a member of a Data Centers' Networking Team, I design and integrate networks for new branches and data centers. I also configure, support and troubleshoot the Expeditors global and local networks. Wireless solutions include Cisco WLC’s and Juniper MIST. Wired solutions include Cisco Nexus and HP/Aruba switching.

• Umatilla Electric Cooperative (2020–2024): As a System Administrator, I managed Windows and Linux servers, administered VMWare and Proxmox environments, and implemented Docker for scalable deployments. One of my proudest achievements here was reducing firewall rules from 1,600 to 400, streamlining management, and enhancing our cybersecurity infrastructure. I also created thorough documentation of complex connections, with around 150 unique points, ensuring that systems were well-maintained and operations ran smoothly.

• University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center (2016–2019): Serving as one of two lead network engineers, I supported over 7,000 employees and 10,000+ weekly visitors across multiple hospital and academic facilities. I led a critical two-day migration of a 12-rack, 100-server data center, which required detailed pre-planning and minimal downtime. I also implemented BGP, DNS, and QoS solutions that ensured security and high-quality telehealth and telecommunication services.

• Sandia National Laboratories (SAIC) (2014–2015): Supporting Sandia’s national security projects as a Computer Infrastructure Specialist was an honor. I worked on the Department of Energy’s and Department of Defense’s high-security initiatives, contributing to non-proliferation projects and setting documentation standards for sensitive nuclear defense operations. This role taught me the importance of detailed documentation and rigorous system hardening, especially in high-stakes environments.

• Cricket Communications (2012–2013): I was tasked with reprogramming over 1,200 routers in six months, but I completed the job in just 1.5 weeks by reengineering procedures and using automation. It’s a feat I’m still proud of, and it’s a testament to my dedication to efficiency and innovation.

• New Mexico Department of Information Technology (2006-2012) I was a critical employee for DoIT's infrastructure, being on call 24/7/365 for networking, network security, and fixed wireless.  I received several accommodations from Cabinet Secretaries and District Court Judges and I was on call for the Governor's mansion, along with other critical government entities and infrastructure.

Technical Skills and Approach

My work spans a range of protocols and tools, from foundational ones like OSPF, BGP, MPLS, VRRP,DMVPN, and STP to specialized applications like Wireshark, Nmap, SSH, and Syslog. I have extensive experience with virtualization and containerization technologies, including Docker, VMWare, Proxmox, and Kubernetes. My expertise also includes network security tools, such as Cisco ASA, Palo Alto, Juniper, and other firewalls, and advanced monitoring solutions like SolarWinds Orion and Splunk.

One thing that sets me apart is my meticulous approach to cable organization and network design. I’ve been recognized for creating cabling that is neat, easy to follow, and a huge asset for troubleshooting.  I have been scrupulous about my cabling since I was a BICSI certified cable installer. I not only keep cables organized and documented, I teach others how to do it themselves, spreading good habits and having equipment to be proud to present to others.

Commitment to Learning

Learning has always been key to my growth. In 2021, I trained in Docker and Kubernetes, paying out of pocket because my boss didn’t see its value. Currently, I’m pursuing knowledge in Ansible, Python, and observability tools like Grafana, ELK, Traefik, and Prometheus. My goal is to master these technologies and deepen my automation skills to stay competitive and effective in the evolving IT landscape.

Where I’m Headed

I’m working toward becoming a distinguished infrastructure engineer and solutions architect. I want to be a high-end consultant, drawing on my skills in servers, networking, and security to solve complex challenges and adapt to changes across industries. While I have taken on management and supervisory workloads in the past, I love working as a technical subject matter expert and I prefer staying in the technical realm, rather than moving into management eventually.  My strengths lie in hands-on problem-solving and technical expertise, where I can apply my passion and focus to create effective solutions.

My Approach

To me, solving networking problems is like working on a puzzle, and I’ve developed a unique set of tricks and methods over the years. I’m always thorough, using the OSI model as a foundation and carefully verifying each step before moving forward. If I encounter a roadblock, I quickly research solutions, but I’m also willing to patiently repeat and adjust my approach until I reach the desired result. This dedication, coupled with a vast range of experience and a continuous drive to learn, has allowed me to make a lasting impact on every role I’ve held.