Lessons in Adaptability: From the Dot-Com Boom to Leadership
Technology has been a driving force of change since the early ‘90s, and I’ve had the privilege of experiencing its evolution firsthand. The dot-com era was a defining moment—businesses rushed to secure domain names, launch online ventures, and build ad-driven revenue models. The excitement was palpable.
Then, it all collapsed.
The bubble burst, and countless companies disappeared overnight. While working in the DC Metro area, I saw the fallout firsthand. I was among the fortunate few who walked through the empty offices of failed startups, acquiring leftover assets—desktops, servers, even furniture. It was surreal to buy a once $10,000 server for just $500.
But the real lesson wasn’t in capitalizing on failure—it was in learning from it. The dot-com crash was a harsh but valuable reminder that businesses and individuals must be adaptable. As Warren Buffett put it, “Diversification is protection against ignorance.” Focus is crucial, but blind optimism in a single trend is risky.
Building a Strong Foundation in IT & Security
Rather than slowing me down, the dot-com bust gave me perspective. Around the same time, I was deepening my expertise in IT security, building network files for organizations like the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and firms like Case Design and Remodeling.
That hands-on experience solidified my understanding of security principles, infrastructure, and connectivity—knowledge that extended far beyond keeping systems running. I learned how technology powers business operations, from networking to server management.
Returning to San Antonio, TX, I quickly realized the value of these skills. At WellMed Medical Management, I applied everything I had learned, stepping into the role of an enterprise administrator for servers. My background in security, networking, and infrastructure came together, reinforcing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Stepping into Leadership: IT, Software, and Product Delivery
A pivotal moment in my career came when I joined IAS Claim Services as their Director of IT. This role was a milestone, but my responsibilities quickly expanded. Over time, I advanced to Vice President, overseeing multiple areas of the company.
While managing IT, I also took on the role of Software Development Manager—an opportunity that introduced me to product delivery. This shift was eye-opening. I realized IT isn’t just about maintaining systems; it’s about enabling business success through technology. Understanding how technology solutions align with business strategy transformed my approach to leadership.
My time at IAS reinforced a critical lesson: success isn’t just about technical expertise—it requires strategic thinking, adaptability, and the ability to lead teams through change.
Resilience and Lifelong Learning: The Keys to Growth
One thing I know for sure—we all get knocked down. Sometimes hard. But if there’s one lesson I’ve carried with me from the dot-com era to today, it’s this: winners get back up.
At my core, I’m a lifelong learner. I thrive on sharing knowledge, mentoring others, and guiding teams toward success. Over 20+ years, I’ve learned that the key to growth is a willingness to adapt, evolve, and stay open to new opportunities.
Let’s Connect—But Let’s Be Clear
If you’re passionate about technology, leadership, and innovation, I welcome the conversation. However, if you’re reaching out just to sell me a product or service, I encourage you not to call me.
I don’t make decisions in isolation—I rely on my team. We evaluate solutions together, ensuring they align with our business needs and budget. We don’t just buy products; we seek strategic partnerships that help us move forward.
Without a strong team, I’m just one person. But with my team, I’m a servant leader, committed to driving business success.
Looking back, the dot-com era wasn’t a failure—it was a learning experience that reshaped how we approach technology, investment, and innovation. The key takeaway? Success isn’t about chasing the next big thing—it’s about knowing when to pivot, diversify, and rise again.
