Edward E. Bradley
IT Manager | Systems & Security Engineer | Creator
I’m an Information Technology Manager and Systems Engineer with a deep passion for designing, securing, and modernizing infrastructure — both in the enterprise and in the lab.
Over the past 25 years, I’ve built my career at the intersection of network engineering, cybersecurity, and automation, helping organizations evolve their IT environments with efficiency and purpose.
Most of my professional experience comes from leading IT operations for Executive Mailing Service, Inc. (acquired by Marketing.com), where I oversaw the modernization of multi-site infrastructure, implemented enterprise security tooling, and deployed hybrid-cloud integrations across distributed facilities.
My work has included:
- Complete facility rewiring and fiber network design
- Building new Active Directory domains and DNS infrastructure
- Rolling out enterprise-grade security stacks including Fortinet, Cisco Meraki, SentinelOne, NinjaOne, AlienVault/LevelBlue, and NetBird
- Developing custom internal tools, such as a FortiGate Threat Intelligence API, and an automated Data Collection & Bonus Tracking System for production workflows
🏗️ Building My Home Lab
Outside the enterprise, I apply those same principles to my home lab, which serves as a testbed for real-world architectures: VLAN segmentation, firewall integration, Zero-Trust connectivity, and network automation.
My ongoing blog series — Building My Home Lab — documents the process of constructing a scalable, secure, and fully observable environment modeled after an enterprise datacenter.
💡 Beyond IT
Beyond networking and security, I’m also a software developer and automation enthusiast, fluent in Python, PowerShell, and .NET, and I enjoy exploring how code can streamline infrastructure and security operations.
I’m equally passionate about blending technology with creativity — as DJ edb, I produce and mix deep, soulful, and tech house music, a nod to the rhythm and structure I find in engineering.
🎓 Education & Focus
- B.S. Computer Science, Northern Illinois University
- Ongoing professional development in:
- Networking & Systems
- Programming & Automation
- Data Security
- Leadership & Team Management