Welcome — I'm Julian Q. R. Smith.

IT Leader & Tech Strategist

In my professional world, I bring 15+ years of hands-on experience in Information Technology and leadership. I’ve built a reputation for turning complexity into clarity, creating lasting partnerships, and driving transformational results — all while keeping cool under pressure.

I’m also a lifelong learner and passionate mentor, driven by the belief that people often outperform their own expectations with the right guidance and mindset. My goal? To inspire, elevate, and create impact — wherever I go.

Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, I’m a proud husband to the amazing Kirsten and a hands-on dad to three awesome kids. Whether I’m out on the road clocking miles on my bike, capturing moments through my camera lens, exploring new places with my wife, or coaching my sons from the sidelines, I believe in showing up fully — for family, for life, and for purpose.

My approach blends technical expertise with emotional intelligence, making me a trusted leader and go-to problem solver.

Education

A showcase of my formal collegiate education and continuous professional credentials.

Master of Science 4.0 GPA

Mississippi State University

Information Systems • 2020 — 2023

Specialized graduate curriculum covering advanced information systems management, information security policies, database design, telecommunications, and IT project governance.

View Program Structure
Bachelor of Science

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Management Information Systems • 2005 — 2010

Undergraduate degree centering on business management, software development paradigms, system analysis & design, systems execution, and quantitative business foundations.

View Major Curriculum

Professional Certifications

AL-CTO

Alabama Leaders in Education Technology | March 2021

Microsoft Certified Professional

Microsoft | April 2012

Google Certified Associate

G Suite Administrator | 2017 — 2019

Nimble Technical Professional

Nimble Storage | 2015 — 2017

Presentations Showcase

A compilation of slide presentations I have designed and delivered on cybersecurity, identity management, and workstation security.

Creating A Cyber Secure Culture Slide Presentation
Cybersecurity

Creating A Cyber Secure Culture

Delivered during my tenure at Hoover City Schools, this presentation outlines the strategy and practical steps for establishing a security-first culture among district staff, students, and stakeholders.

Passwords & MFA - Keeping Bad Actors Out Slide Presentation
Identity & Access

Passwords & MFA — Keeping Bad Actors Out

A deep dive into password policies, password managers, and multi-factor authentication (MFA) implementation to protect critical educational and organizational infrastructure.

Workstation Security - Lock It Before You Leave Slide Presentation
Cybersecurity

Workstation Security — Lock It Before You Leave

Employee awareness deck promoting workstation safety practices and workstation locking shortcuts (Win + L) to secure data.

Professional Experience

IT Leader with 15+ years of experience guiding technology strategy and execution across public and private sectors.

November 2021 — Present

Director of Information Technology

Arlington Holding Company
  • Served as technology subject matter expert for Arlington Development, Arlington Holdings, Arlington Properties, Arlington Construction Services, & Professional Building Services.
  • Spearheaded comprehensive technology infrastructure upgrades, including a VoIP system, wireless access points, switches, fiber internet, and firewalls.
  • Elevated cyber awareness through a training program via KnowBe4 and implemented Multifactor Authentication.
  • Pioneered the deployment and management of iPad devices with a mobile device management solution.
  • Consolidated Active Directory / Azure AD environments and established comprehensive IT systems documentation.
  • Leveraged Power Automate for business process automation, resulting in higher operational efficiency.
April 2018 — November 2021

Coordinator of Information Technology

Hoover City Schools
  • Coached and managed a team of 12 professionals by implementing company policies, protocols, and training.
  • Revolutionized cybersecurity posture through a multi-faceted approach and strategic alliances with key stakeholders.
  • Provided project management oversight for vital system upgrades within the HR and Payroll departments.
  • Implemented Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager for OS and application deployment automation.
  • Served as a leader within statewide technology group, Alabama Leaders in Educational Technology, in domains of student data and cybersecurity.
May 2016 — April 2018

Database Administrator

Hoover City Schools
  • Maintained and supported databases for a K-12 school district serving 15,000 users.
  • Conducted ETL operations, consolidating data from various sources (SIS, ERP, inventory systems).
  • Assumed responsibility for state and federal district reporting, ensuring data accuracy and compliance.
  • Developed and implemented scripts and processes for database data integration for over 80 software products.
  • Administered Active Directory and Google Suite for Education.
April 2014 — May 2016

Data Specialist / Systems Administrator

Trussville City Schools
  • Managed information requests, handling public and protected data with high precision.
  • Supported the student services department, transitioning to online student registration and enrollment.
  • Played a pivotal role in establishing the district's Data Governance policy.
  • Served as the Windows administrator, overseeing DNS, DHCP, Active Directory, and SharePoint environments.
  • Spearheaded the migration from on-premise Exchange/SharePoint to Office 365.
November 2011 — April 2014

Senior Support Technician

Trussville City Schools
  • Configured hardware, devices, and software, setting up workstations for employees.
  • Proactively identified and removed malware, ransomware, and other security threats.
  • Conducted in-depth analysis of network and system issues to implement swift troubleshooting resolutions.
  • Streamlined repair processes and updated technical procedures to ensure support consistency.
September 2010 — November 2011

PC Technician

Trussville City Schools
  • Responded promptly to support requests from end-users, providing patient guidance.
  • Documented transactions and support interactions to build a local IT knowledge base.
  • Conducted post-engagement follow-ups to ensure high customer satisfaction.

Interested in working together?

Download my full resume for a complete look at my experience, skills, and qualifications.

Download Resume (PDF)

Consulting Services

Strategic IT consulting tailored for small businesses. I bring 15+ years of hands-on leadership experience to help you build, secure, and scale your technology — without the overhead of a full-time hire.

IT Strategy & Digital Transformation

Develop a clear technology roadmap aligned with your business goals. From cloud migration to infrastructure modernization, I help you make smart investments that drive growth.

Cybersecurity Consulting

Assess your security posture, develop policies, and train your team to recognize threats. I help small businesses build a culture of cyber awareness from the ground up.

IT Leadership Coaching & Mentoring

Guiding emerging IT professionals and teams to reach their full potential. I offer one-on-one coaching rooted in real-world experience and emotional intelligence.

Engagement Options

Discovery Call

$150 / 1 hour
  • Initial technology assessment
  • Identify pain points & gaps
  • Actionable recommendations
  • Follow-up summary email
Get Started

Ongoing Advisory

$2,000 / month
  • Fractional CTO / IT Director
  • Up to 10 hours per month
  • Ongoing strategic guidance
  • Vendor evaluation & oversight
  • Priority email & phone access
Get Started

Let’s Talk

Ready to elevate your technology strategy? Fill out the form below and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours.