Benjamin Grifka | CompTIA A+ Certified IT Professional

IT Experience Overview

As a CompTIA A+ certified IT professional with a Computer Science background, I have developed strong skills in hardware troubleshooting, system administration, and technical support through hands-on projects and self-directed learning.

I have extensive experience with computer hardware, operating systems, networking, and system maintenance through various personal projects. My programming background provides me with a unique perspective when approaching technical problems.

Computer Hardware

Troubleshooting

Operating Systems

Network Basics

Peripheral Configuration

Docker

CompTIA A+ Certified

Technologies & Skills

IT Fundamentals

Computer Hardware

Troubleshooting

Operating Systems

Network Basics

Peripheral Configuration

Technical Background

Computer & System Architecture

Docker

SQL

Data Structures

Git

Communication

Customer Service

Verbal Communication

Technical Documentation

Problem Solving

User Support

Professional Experience

Apr 2021 - Present

Store Associate, In-House Technical Support

The UPS Store – Los Angeles, CA

Strong customer service skills through daily interactions with diverse clientele
Primary retail associate handling customer transactions and store operations
Troubleshooting technical support for in-store systems and common hardware/software issues
Maintain efficient equipment function through rapid troubleshooting of systems and devices
Problem-solving skills to resolve technical issues that impact store operations

Personal Projects & Technical Experience

PC Building & Maintenance

2015 - Present

Designed and built 8+ custom computer systems tailored to specific performance needs, troubleshooting hardware compatibility issues
Perform maintenance and upgrades on laptops and pre-built systems
Diagnose and troubleshoot hardware failures, compatibility issues, and performance bottlenecks

Home Server Administration

2018 - Present

Built and maintain Windows 11 home lab server running Docker with Portainer, PiHole, and custom applications to enhance network security and service management
Host Plex media server, Ollama LLM service, and game servers
Developed a custom web application that automated timesheet generation from Apple Calendar data, eliminating manual entry and calculation errors

Smart Home Integration

2024 - Present

Configured and maintain Home Assistant for smart home automation and monitoring
Set up automation for lighting control, presence detection, and remote management
Implemented 3D printer integration with notification systems for print status and filament monitoring
Working on implementing Wyoming satellites for local LLM voice assistant capabilities

3D Printer Customization

2024 - Present

Installed Klipper firmware on Raspberry Pi to replace stock Marlin controller on Ender 3 V3 SE
Configure and maintain the 3D printer hardware and software for improved performance
Designed and printed custom upgrades to enhance printer functionality
Troubleshoot and resolve issues with print quality, calibration, and firmware updates

Education & Certifications

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

California State University, Northridge

2023

Certifications

CompTIA A+

CompTIA

April 2025

Artificial Intelligence A-Z 2025: Agentic AI, Gen AI, and RL

Udemy

Expected May 2025

The Complete Python Bootcamp From Zero to Hero in Python