Resume
Franco Lopez
IT Manager | Full-Stack Developer | Infrastructure & Cloud Architect
Raleigh-Durham, NC | LinkedIn | jfranco.lopez@outlook.com
Summary
IT Manager & Software Engineer with 15+ years of experience leading high-impact IT initiatives across manufacturing, logistics, and enterprise environments. Proven success in scaling IT operations, driving automation, and aligning IT with business goals during rapid growth and transformation. Bilingual in English and Spanish, with excellent communication and collaboration skills for diverse, global teams. Currently exploring the use of LLMs (Large Language Models) for internal automation, documentation, and developer tooling. Creator of the dealer quote tool StartBlue (Django + React + PostgreSQL), currently used by 350+ dealerships across the U.S. and Canada. Passionate about DevOps, automation, coding, homelabs, and open source.
Technical Skills
- Languages: Python, JavaScript, Bash, SQL, FileMaker Claris
- Leadership: Digital Transformation, IT Budgeting, Vendor Management, Multi-Site IT Operations, Team Building, Mentoring.
- Frameworks & Tools: Django, ReactJS, Node.js, GitHub Actions, Helm, FluxCD
- Infrastructure: Kubernetes, Docker, Proxmox, Ansible, Enterprise Network Architecture, Cybersecurity, Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery
- Cloud & Virtualization: Azure, AWS, Linode, Hyper-V, VMware ESXi, KVM
- Networking: Fortinet, Cisco IOS, Meraki, UniFi, pfSense, VLANs, IPSec VPN, SD-WAN
- Storage: Unraid, TrueNAS, ZFS, NFS, Longhorn, Ceph
- Security: SSO (Azure AD/Entra ID), Microsoft 365 Compliance, Role-based Access
- Monitoring: Grafana, Tailscale, Traefik, Vault
- MDM: Scalefusion, Jamf (beginner), Google Workspace Admin
Experience
LS Tractor USA – IT Manager & Software Developer
Raleigh, NC / Battleboro, NC | 2022–Present
- Leading North American IT operations for an LG Electronics subsidiary, overseeing multi-site infrastructure, security, and cloud strategy for manufacturing and corporate environments.
- Spearheaded modernization, reducing downtime by 40% and improving system performance by 35% through security enhancements and infrastructure upgrades.
- Managed budgeting & vendor negotiations, cutting annual expenditures by 20% while enhancing service capabilities.
- Led multiple large-scale migrations, including transitioning 200+ users from legacy on-prem AD to Microsoft Azure, improving scalability by 40% and cutting costs by 30%.
- Achieved zero security breaches in 2+ years, implementing MFA, next-gen firewalls, EDR, and network segmentation.
- Designed and implemented the infrastructure for two new manufacturing sites ensuring compliance with industry standards.
La Moderna USA – Information Technology Manager
Cleburne, TX | 2017–2022
- Spearheaded IT operations for a new $80M pasta manufacturing facility, designing and implementing a robust infrastructure to support 24/7 production, ensuring 99.5% uptime.
- IT infrastructure, networking, and cybersecurity best practices.
- Used Fusion 360, 3D printing, and electronics (Arduino/RPi) for prototyping projects.
- Led automation engineers to integrate IT with MES and PLC systems, reducing manufacturing downtime.
S.R. Traffic Service Inc. – Software Engineer
Laredo, TX / 20010–2017
- Developed and implemented a Warehouse Management System (WMS) that improved logistics efficiency and reduced errors.
- Designed APIs and backends for mobile and web apps.
- Automated shipment tracking & data analytics, reducing manual data entry by 80% and improving operational visibility
- Contributed to business process improvements through technology.
- Designed & maintained databases for real-time inventory tracking and cross-border logistics.
Projects
- StartBlue Quote Tool: Internal Django + React app used daily by 350+ dealerships.
- LLM Automation (WIP):: Experimenting with OpenAI and local LLMs (like Ollama) to streamline internal documentation, and IT ticket classification.
- Mow it Like Jose (WIP): Open source FPV lawnmower controller with 3D-printed parts, electronics.
- Homelab GitOps Cluster: 6-node bare metal Talos Linux cluster with Flux CD, Vault, and Traefik.
- Fedora Workstation - Post Install script: My personal Fedora installation script.
Education & Certifications
- B.S. in Systems Engineer – [Universidad del Valle de Mexico]
- Microsoft Azure - credential ID l169-8499
- CompTIA A+ - credential ID COMP001021996867
- CompTia Network + - (in progress)
- HPE SimpliVity 380 System Administration – VMware
- Engineering Cisco Meraki Solutions
Interests
- 3D Printing & CAD (Fusion 360, Prusa MK3S MMU2S, Creality 3Pro)
- AR/VR Development (Oculus Quest, HTC Vive)
- LLMs (Large Language Models): Prompt engineering, local models (Ollama), OpenAI API, use in IT automation.
- Crypto & Self-hosted Finance Tools
- Music: Piano & Saxophone
Languages
- English (Fluent)
- Spanish (Native)