Alser Sugasawa

About Me

Hello, I’m Alser Sugasawa, a dedicated Systems Specialist based in Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada. With a professional journey rooted in the public sector and a deep passion for community engagement, I bridge the gap between complex technology and tangible, real-world solutions. My career is driven by a core belief: technology should empower people and strengthen communities.

From managing networks for the City of Whitehorse to my current role with the Yukon Government, I have spent over seven years implementing, supporting, and securing the IT infrastructure and services. I thrive on the challenge of ensuring systems are not just functional, but also resilient, efficient, and secure.

My journey is one of constant growth, both professionally and personally. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Major in History to deepen my expertise and am always looking for new challenges where I can apply my skills to make a meaningful impact.

When I’m not working with technology, I’m either on the soccer field or exploring the territory’s stunning wilderness by hiking in the summer and snowboarding in the winter. I’m a firm believer that active engagement builds a stronger community, a principle I put into practice through my volunteer work with local organizations.

Let’s connect. I am always open to discussing new opportunities, technology trends, or ways to contribute to our vibrant Yukon community. If you’d like to chat about technology, have an exciting opportunity to discuss, or are seeking mentorship, reach out via email or connect with me on LinkedIn — the first coffee is on me.

Technical Skills & Capabilities

I am committed to continuous learning and hold a robust portfolio of industry-recognized certifications. My technical expertise is concentrated in the following key areas:

Network Engineering & Administration

My foundation in networking is proven through hands-on experience and my Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. I am proficient in:

• Network design, implementation, and administration (LAN/WAN)
• Routing and switching protocols
• Network security fundamentals and troubleshooting
• Infrastructure management for enterprise and government environments

Cloud Computing & Virtualization

I stay current with modern IT paradigms, holding certifications in both cloud and virtualized technologies.

• Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (Standard & AI): Foundational knowledge of cloud services, solutions, AI workloads, and machine learning principles on Azure.
• VMware Certified Technical Associate (VCTA): Expertise in managing and operating virtualized environments, a cornerstone of modern data centers.

Systems & IT Support

My experience extends to the full lifecycle of system support, from deployment to user training.

• System Configuration & Deployment: Proficient in deploying and maintaining Windows, Linux operating systems at an enterprise scale. Experienced in implementing various proprietary and open source software. Adheres to software development standards and methodoligies such as Sofware Development Lyife Cycle, DevOPs etc.

• Technical Analysis & Support: Skilled in diagnosing complex issues, providing end-user support, and developing comprehensive documentation and user training manuals.

Core Competencies: Technology in Action

Beyond the technical specifications, my real value lies in applying these skills effectively. My extensive volunteer work has honed a unique set of professional competencies:

• Strategic Planning & Governance: As a Board Member for Yukon University and Big Brothers Big Sisters, I have contributed to strategic plans, provided oversight on HR committees, and helped shape organizational policy and financial roadmaps.
• Logistics & Disaster Response: My volunteer roles with the Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC) and the Canadian Red Cross provided direct experience in logistics, including resource tracking, inter-organizational coordination, and performing under pressure.
• Project Management & Leadership: I have spearheaded community projects from concept to completion, such as developing the “Introduction to Smartphone and Tablet” course for Yukon Learn and leading the “Project Solace” mental health initiative for the Yukon University Students’ Union.
• Communication & Training: From tutoring English language learners to teaching seniors basic computer skills, I have a proven ability to break down complex technical concepts for diverse, non-technical audiences.