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Our goal is to help you succeed. Whether you’re a Cisco professional, a Microsoft expert, or someone wanting to break into the growing computer technology field — this is the place to get all the information and support you need.
We cover a variety of topics in all areas of IT. Here’s what you can find in our daily posts:
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Kasia Grabowska is the editor in chief of Train Signal Training and a website manager here at Train Signal. She has a B.A. in Psychology from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and is currently working on her M.S. in Library and Information Science. |
| Kasia has written articles on a number of Microsoft Office topics and is currently working on her first IT Certification - the CompTIA A+. | |
| Read about Kasia’s experiences with preparing for the CompTIA A+ exams and follow along as she completes her first IT certification. | |
| Contact Kasia with any questions, comments, or suggestions for Train Signal Training and follow her on Twitter. | |
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Stelios Antoniou (CCNA, NET+, MOUS) holds a BSc in Electronic Engineering and an MSc in Communication Networks. He has over three years of experience in teaching MS Office applications, networking courses and GCE courses in Information Technology. |
| Stelios is currently working as a VoIP Engineer in a Telecom company, where he uses his knowledge in practice. He has successfully completed training on CCNP topics, Linux and IMS. His enthusiasm, ambition and knowledge motivate him to offer his best. | |
| Stelios has written many articles on a variety of Cisco topics including CCENT, CCNA, and CCNP. | |
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Bill Bullock is a recent graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science. At Train Signal, he works on the production of training videos, managing and editing course content, as well as helping with technical support. |
| Bill also writes how-to articles on a variety of topics and has written about his experiences with obtaining his CompTIA Network+ certification for which he used Train Signal’s Network+ course to study for the exam. | |
| Read about Bill’s experiences with preparing for and passing his CompTIA Network+ certification exam. | |
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R. Louis Costley III (MCP, MCDST, A+, Network+, Security+) currently works as a Contractor Associate for a Computer Services company whose main focus is the small and medium business community in Albuquerque. |
| He’s also working on a motion picture project called Damascus Road, of which he authored the screenplay, published a novel and released a soundtrack CD. Louis is a multitalented individual — an IT professional, a writer and a musician. | |
| Louis became a writer for Train Signal Training after winnning the Grand Prize in our Words for Training Contest. | |
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Ben “Coach” Culbertson (MCT, MCSA, MCDBA, CIW, A+, Net+, MOS) has taught thousands of people in the Chicagoland area, and brings ten years of training, web, print, and network consulting experience to the table. Serving a two year tour of duty as an inner city high school teacher, he motivated at-risk students to achieve excellence and learned how to teach high level concepts in a rubber-meets-the-road fashion. |
| He is also the Technical Editor and webmaster of ReliefJournal.com, a quarterly literary journal, and the Editor-In-Chief for Coach’s Midnight Diner, an annual genre anthology. | |
| Ben occasionally contributes articles to Train Signal Training and has written on SharePoint and Vista topics in the past. | |
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David Davis (CCIE #9369, CWNA, MCSE, CISSP, Linux+, CEH) has been in the IT industry for over 15 years. Currently, he manages a group of systems/network administrators for a privately owned retail company and authors IT-related material in his spare time. |
| He has written over fifty articles, eight practice tests and eight video courses and has co-authored one book. He offers articles and webcasts covering Cisco and VMware Virtualization topics at his website, HappyRouter.com. | |
| David is a casual contributor to Train Signal Training and has written articles on VMware, Vista, and Cisco topics. | |
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Gary Eimerman (MCP, A+) is an experienced Computer Hardware Technician and Support Technician. As a graduate from the University of Iowa, Henry B. Tippie College of Business with a B.B.A. in Management Information Systems, Gary brings hands-on experience with Network, Database, Project Management and Web development to the Train Signal team. |
| He also brings 5 years of teaching experience with Enhance Inc. where he taught technology in a hands-on environment. You will greatly benefit from his passion, aspirations and knowledge towards technology. | |
| Gary is the Director of Product Development and has written a number of articles on CompTIA A+, VMware, and Exchange Server. | |
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Gosia Grabowska (CCNA, Network+, MOS) is an experienced Network Support Specialist and an expert in Windows Server support. She graduated from DePaul University, Chicago with a Bachelor degree in Network Technologies with highest honors. |
| Gosia has over 8 years of technical and support experience and has worked as Systems Administrator for a high profile law firm, where she managed the Backup and Disaster Recovery plan. | |
| Gosia has been a part of the Train Signal team since 2006 as the Product Manager and has written many articles on a variety of topics, including Exchange Server 2007, Windows Vista, Small Business Server, and more. | |
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Dave Lawlor (MCTS, MCP, A+) has been working in the IT field since leaving the U.S. Army in 1996. Working his way up from printer hardware repair to running a corporate datacenter for a multinational corporation, Dave has seen many environments throughout the years. |
| Focusing on web sites and search engine optimization the last few years, with the release of Server 2008 it has renewed his passion for the Wintel platform and server technologies. David also runs Windows Server Training where he posts free videos and walk-throughs for a variety of server technologies. | |
| David currently works as a freelance technical consultant and writer for a variety of companies in the Chicago area. | |
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Zach Monroe (A+, MCTS) has a B.S. in Business with an emphasis in Computer Information Systems and a Pre-Law minor from Eastern Illinois University. |
| He has experience in many different areas, including construction of large scale Oracle databases, coauthoring and publishing business plans, and working as a licensed insurance agent, senior customer service representative and trainer for a major insurance company. He was also involved in nonprofit work for Big Brothers Big Sisters, designing and implementing databases and front end software using Visual Basic. | |
| At Train Signal Zach works in technical support and sales and writes articles on a variety of topics. | |
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Brian Nelson (MCSE, CNA) is a professional freelance writer and small business owner with ArcticLlama, LLC. Brian’s experience includes network and systems administration, financial planning and advising, and he even has a degree in Biochemistry. |
| Brian specializes in several areas of highly technical writing for ArcticLlama including technology, finance, and, science and medical. He lives in Colorado with his wife and daughter. | |
| Brian has recently joined the Train Signal Training Team and contributes articles on Windows Server 2008 and other related topics. | |
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Scott Skinger (MCSE, CCNP, CNE) is an experienced Windows 2000/Server 2003 instructor. He has taught dozens of courses on Windows 2000, NT 4.0, Novell Netware, Cisco Routers, Network Security, Computer Hardware and Project Management. |
| He has also worked in the trenches as a Network Engineer, Director of Technology and currently as an Independent Consultant through his own company, SAS Technology Advisors. Scott’s real-world knowledge, energy and thoroughness make any course he teaches both fun and rewarding. | |
| Scott occasionally contributes articles to Train Signal Training and has covered various topics including Vista and Windows Server 2008. | |
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Lisa Szpunar has a Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Iowa, and is currently working on a Masters of Science in Computer Science at Northern Illinois University. At NIU her areas of emphasis are computer networks, and systems design and analysis. |
| During her three years teaching in public schools she taught computer skills to students and peers, maintained the schools’ networks and hardware, ran the libraries, and helped to facilitated technology throughout the school district. | |
| At Train Signal Lisa manages the production of training videos, does video editing, and helps with technical support. | |
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Heather Ackmann is an accomplished instructor who has taught over 4,000 students at the high school, college, and adult levels. Specializing in computer applications, writing, and literature, she holds a degree in English and Secondary Education, an Illinois Type 09 Initial Teaching Certificate, and is a Microsoft Certified Master for Office 2003. |
| While her energetic and easy-to-follow style is ideal for beginners to computer applications, her knowledge, thoroughness, and foresight in potential problems will satisfy the more proficient user. | |
| On the side, she works as the Assistant Editor for the literary journal Relief: A Quarterly Christian Expression designing, editing, and proofing their print journal. She also maintains their Access Database, builds Excel and Word templates for their editors, and answers end-user questions for Relief’s online submission system. | |
| Heather is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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Chris Bryant (CCIE #12933) has extensive experience in both the practical and theoretical sides of Cisco and Networking technologies. You will benefit greatly from his detailed instruction and passion for helping others, especially since Chris has recently been “down the Cisco road”, passing his CCNA, CCNP and his CCIE! |
| Take advantage of Chris Bryant’s vast experience, wealth of knowledge and all-around good advice that will help you pass your certification exams and develop the hands-on skills that the market demands. | |
| Chris is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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Obaid Chhatriwala (MBA, MCSE, Security +, CNA) is an experienced technology consultant and instructor. Obaid has over 10 years of experience teaching a variety of computer courses in Active Directory, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Server 2003, Windows XP, Novell Netware, Cisco Routing & Switching, Network Security and Computer Hardware. |
| He has also designed and administered networks for a variety of industries, including healthcare and financial companies. Obaid’s enthusiasm and experience shines through in his teaching. | |
| Obaid is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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Ben “Coach” Culbertson (MCT, MCSA, MCDBA, CIW, A+, Net+, MOS) has taught thousands of people in the Chicagoland area, and brings ten years of training, web, print, and network consulting experience to the table. Serving a two year tour of duty as an inner city high school teacher at Roberto Clemente High School, he motivated at-risk students to achieve excellence and learned how to teach high level concepts in a rubber-meets-the-road fashion. |
| His versatility and high energy instructional style will not only educate you but also make you laugh along the way. Ben is also the Technical Editor and webmaster of ReliefJournal.com, a quarterly literary journal, and the Editor-In-Chief for Coach’s Midnight Diner, an annual genre anthology. | |
| Ben is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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David Davis (CCIE #9369, CWNA, MCSE, CISSP, SCSA) has been in the IT industry for over 12 years. He currently manages a group of systems/network administrators for a privately owned retail company and authors IT-related material in his spare time. |
| He has written over fifty articles, eight practice tests, and co-authored one book. David’s “real-world” experience combined with his diversity of skills (Windows, Cisco, Unix & Security) gives you a powerful learning resource that can’t be matched. | |
| David is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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Jon Hassell is an experienced IT professional with over 10 years of expertise in the industry. He is a published author, technical consultant, and speaker residing in Charlotte, North Carolina. Jonathan’s previous published works include RADIUS, Learning Windows Server 2003, Hardening Windows, and Using Small Business Server 2003 for O’Reilly and Apress. |
| His work is seen regularly in popular periodicals such as Windows IT Pro Magazine, SecurityFocus, PC Pro, and Microsoft TechNet Magazine. He speaks around the world on topics including networking, security, and Windows administration. | |
| Jonathan brings an enormous amount of knowledge to each of his courses and priceless experiences that he gracefully shares with you to assist you in your training. His love for technology and attention to details will help you manage the most complex network environments today. | |
| Jon is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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Bill Kulterman (CIW, MOS Master Certified) has worked as a web and graphic designer for over 6 years and has enjoyed teaching the Adobe/Macromedia Creative Suite since 2004. Although graphics classes are his favorite, he is also an award-winning Microsoft Office Instructor in Chicago. |
| His fun and easy going teaching style is engaging and allows for easy assimilation of new skills. When not recording the Best Computer Training on the Planet, Bill can be found at the opera or tending to his backyard pond. | |
| Bill is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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Scott Lowe (MCSE, CNA) is the Chief Information Officer at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri where he puts his 14 years of Information Technology experience to work serving the needs of the campus community. By night (and sometimes weekends, lunch, and everything in between!) Scott writes technical articles for CNet’s TechRepublic and Microsoft. |
| For TechRepublic, for whom he has written more than 500 articles, Scott writes the weekly Exchange newsletter tip as well as the biweekly storage newsletter. He is also the author of O’Reilly’s Home Networking: The Missing Manual and a coauthor of Microsoft Press’ Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 Administrator’s Companion. | |
| Scott is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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Dave Shackelford (MCSE, CCNA) brings 10 years of experience as a technology consultant, trainer and network engineer to Train Signal. He currently works as partner to a number of consultants and teaches technology classes as a contractor for the State of Washington. |
| He has been a contributing author to books on Windows Server, and a technical editor for books on Windows Security, Group Policy, and Windows Server.Dave has been a Microsoft MVP for four years lending his experience to shape future Microsoft products. | |
| His passion for technology can be seen by his students, clients, technical forum readers and all those who have had the chance to interact with him. | |
| Dave is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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Scott Skinger (MCSE, CCNP, CNE) is an experienced Windows 2000/Server 2003 instructor. He has taught dozens of courses, covering topics such as: Windows 2000, NT 4.0, Novell Netware, Cisco Routers, Network Security, Computer Hardware and Project Management. |
| He has also worked in the trenches as a Network Engineer, Director of Technology and currently as an Independent Consultant through his own company, SAS Technology Advisors. Scott’s real-world knowledge, energy and thoroughness make any course he teaches both fun and rewarding. | |
| Scott is the instructor for the following courses: | |
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