Joseph W. Embers

Topeka, KS · [email protected] · linkedin.com/in/topekasystemadmin

Summary

IT professional with 20+ years of experience in systems administration, infrastructure modernization, and enterprise security across major public and research libraries. Since 2022, I have served as the primary IT lead at Linda Hall Library, guiding enterprise upgrades, cloud migrations, and Zero Trust security implementations while carrying responsibilities previously handled by multiple staff members.

My commitment to growth is demonstrated through annual attendance at Microsoft TechMentor (2023, 2024, 2025), where I train in Microsoft 365, Intune, cloud security, automation, and enterprise IT best practices.

Core Competencies

  • Microsoft 365 & Intune
  • Azure AD
  • Zero Trust Security
  • Endpoint Security (Defender, Arctic Wolf)
  • VMware & Nutanix
  • SAN & Enterprise Wireless
  • Vendor Management
  • Automation / PowerShell
  • Digital Transformation

Professional Experience

Systems Administrator (Acting IT Lead)

Linda Hall Library — Kansas City, MO | Apr 2022 – Present

  • Sole administrator after departmental transitions; carried responsibilities of multiple staff.
  • Migrated 100+ endpoints to Intune, cutting provisioning time by 40%.
  • Integrated Apple Business Manager with Intune for compliance and management.
  • Deployed Microsoft Defender + Arctic Wolf for advanced security monitoring.
  • Directed VMware, SAN, Meraki networking, wireless, and access control systems.
  • Negotiated vendor contracts, generating cost savings and improving uptime.
  • Aligned IT infrastructure with the Library’s Strategic Plan.

Systems & Security Administrator

Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library — Topeka, KS | 2008 – 2022

  • Oversaw IT infrastructure for one of Kansas’s largest libraries, supporting thousands of patrons.
  • Managed Microsoft 365, Active Directory, VMware, SAN, and enterprise wireless.
  • Strengthened cybersecurity with endpoint protection and compliance measures.
  • Directed kiosk and lifecycle management for hundreds of public-use computers.
  • Coordinated vendor relationships and large-scale upgrades.

IT Specialist | Systems Administrator

Kansas City Public Library — Kansas City, MO | 2001 – 2008

  • Maintained servers, network infrastructure, and endpoints across multiple branches.
  • Administered Active Directory, Group Policy, and Microsoft core systems.
  • Supported early VMware / virtualization rollouts, improving efficiency.
  • Implemented upgrades and ensured reliable patron computer access.

Certifications

  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
  • CompTIA Security+
  • VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV)

Education & Professional Development

  • BA in Studio Arts — Bethany College, KS
  • Microsoft TechMentor (2023–2025): Microsoft 365, Intune, Azure security, automation, cloud security