Our Team

Patty has many years of experience using accounting and scheduling software to streamline daily business operations. Besides taking numerous classes for web and graphic design, business practices and software applications, she also earned an Associate’s Degree in Fine Arts. Oil and watercolor paintings of animals and still-life are her favorites. When she is not crunching numbers, Patty spends time with family and friends and hangs out with her dogs, Buster and Augie.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Let me count the ways! The first thing that comes to mind is the professionalism and caring attitude of everyone I work with. They are pretty funny too!”

Travis graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Networking Information Technology and a Master’s degree in Technology Management. His first interaction with computers came when he was just four years old and his father brought home a laptop from work. His love of all things Star Trek also fueled his interest in technology. Travis’ goal is to always provide top quality customer service to assist clients in performing the tasks they need to complete their own jobs. In his free time, Travis enjoys Amateur Radio as a licensed “HAM”, photography, traveling, and spending time away from computers working on his car, a modified Volkswagen Jetta GLI.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“What do I love about working here? My co-workers are awesome. We all get along well and work well together. We enjoy hanging out with each other both inside and outside of work.”

Aaron is a graduate of Central Connecticut State University with a degree in Industrial Technology specializing in Networking. He always knew from an early age that he had an interest in computers and choosing IT as a major in college just seemed natural. Aaron also worked over 5 years in the hospitality industry making employee of the month and training other front desk employees. Aaron combines his skills from both industries, organization and multitasking, along with his extensive knowledge of the IT industry, to seamlessly delivery exceptional service to all customers at Charles IT. His goal is to problem solve with customers and to convey computer concepts to them in a way that makes them understand and feel comfortable with technology. When he is not in front of a computer screen, Aaron enjoys the outdoors, traveling, spending time with family and friends.

Rich is Lead Tech & Security Engineer at Charles IT and he specializes in web development and network security. Active in web development since the age of 13 and always interested in the latest and greatest technology, Rich holds a degree in Networking and Security with a concentration in Computer Science from Roger Williams University. Rich is an expert in many areas of technology and a valued member of the Charles IT team. He excels when given a challenge and is always able to determine a great solution to any IT or web-related problem. In his free time, Rich enjoys swimming, working out, and reading about and discovering new technologies and software.

Isaiah joined the Charles IT team in 2006 and has been a valued member ever since. Isaiah has always been interested in the latest technologies and gadgets. Even from a young age he would always be found after school tearing up old computers and installing the latest and greatest Microsoft products. In this digital age it was a natural decision to turn it into a career. His goal is to keep companies productive and moving forward through the implementation of the latest technologies. Isaiah is proficient in both Microsoft products as well as VMware, having experience with both companies’ latest products.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Our Friday lunches. It really allows us as a team to wind down from the week and hang out together for an hour. Plus, we get to try all sorts of food from different restaurants around CT, and on the house too!”

Kristina is a graduate of the University of Connecticut with degrees in English and Education. She was a high school English teacher for three years before joining the Charles IT team as the Service Operations Specialist. Kristina focuses her time on optimizing day-to-day operations and enjoys working with clients in making sure they are thrilled with the level of service that Charles IT provides. She focuses much her time on organizing workflow, communicating with clients and technicians, and improving processes. She also enjoys maintaining our unique office culture by coordinating team-building events. In her spare time, Kristina loves to travel and spend time with her family, friends, daughter Harper, and dog Jax.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Happy hours and outings!!”

If you ask Foster, the founder of Charles IT, what he loves to do the most, he will say helping people. Foster’s passion in life is providing his clients with accessible, cutting edge technology and showing them how IT can be an exciting and effective tool to help their businesses. He also loves nothing more than sharing exciting life experiences with his devoted team. From helicopter tours in the Grand Canyon to racing Ferraris in Hollywood, no outing is too grand and Foster makes these experiences a reality for his team. A true visionary, Foster is committed to growing his company and his people to be the best they can be and has created a team of individuals who are dedicated and proud of the work that they do. Foster is also very active in the community of Middletown where he heads up the Technology Committee and is actively involved in the Chamber of Commerce. When he’s not at the office, Foster loves to spend time with his family, especially his daughter Harper, and he enjoys swimming and Crossfit.

Wayne is a graduate of the University of Hartford with degrees in Interactive Information Technology and Management Information Systems. Wayne enjoys sharing his 11 years of IT experience to help businesses become more productive and profitable. He is also a Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert. Prior to joining Charles IT he led a Managed Services Practice and was tasked with leading projects involving Security and Auditing as well as Business Impact Assessments and Disaster Recovery Planning. In addition to Microsoft technologies, Wayne has in-depth experience working with offerings from Symantec, Dell, HP, Lenovo and IBM. In his free time Wayne enjoys traveling. He is also an avid baseball fan and has a goal to visit every existing Major League baseball park.

Stephanie is a graduate of Fordham University with degrees in Italian Language and Literature and International Economics. Before joining Charles IT, Stephanie worked as an editor and Quality Assurance Manager in the pharmaceutical translation industry. This background has given her extensive experience in ensuring that day-to-day operations run efficiently, while simultaneously delivering high-quality services and customer care to our clients. When she’s not traveling to visit friends and family in Italy, Stephanie loves exploring new cities around the country and keeping active through a soccer league.

Tommy recently moved to the area from Albuquerque, New Mexico where he is originally from, and joined the Charles IT team in early 2018. By trade, he is a certified BMW mechanic, but transitioned to the realm of IT Support in 2011. He’s always had a strong determination to understand how computer systems work and is always “under the hood” to learn the ins and outs. From a young age, Tommy has always had a certain affinity for all things technology. From antique mechanical watches to do-it-yourself home electronics projects, he is almost always tinkering with one thing or another. In his free time, Tommy likes to read and spend time outdoors with his Golden Retriever, Desmond.

Dereck is a graduate of Central Connecticut State University with a degree in Computer Engineering. He is a 3cx Certified Engineer and Security + certified, and he has 7 years of experience working with Apple Computers. Dereck's expertise also includes effectively using technology to support education and learning. His career goal is to develop an expertise in network engineering, which he is able to actively pursue while working with Meraki and networking equipment here at Charles IT. Dereck, who grew up in Middletown, enjoys mountain biking, snowboarding, craft beer, and video games.

Chris graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering. A Middletown native, Chris has loved computers since he first got one at the age of 7. Chris loves learning and working on a broad range of different systems including Windows, Mac, GNU/Linux, Android, and iOS. His career goal is to become a lead system administrator where he could design and configure entire systems and networks. He strives to provide excellent customer service and ensures all clients' technical needs have been met. In addition to technology, Chris is also a car enthusiast who enjoys working on his Subaru WRX STI. He is also an avid snowboarder and a die-hard Chicago Bears fan.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Epic outings are hands down the best perk. It really shows the true culture of Charles IT and allows us to really get to know each other and bond. Plus, it’s kind of neat that we have NO idea where we are going until we get to the airport. My favorite outing was when we had the chance to drive exotic sports cars on the streets of LA! Being able to say you have an office kegerator is also pretty awesome!"

Matt's love of technology goes back almost as far as he can remember. When he was five years old, his mother bought a brand new desktop with Windows 98 installed, and the passion was ignited. Twenty years later, the equipment has changed, but the love has not, his house now has two servers as well as an array of automation equipment. At Charles IT, Matt's favorite part of the job is staying on the cutting edge with developments in technology and helping our clients understand and navigate it. In his free time, Matt likes to cook and work on his project car, a 1991 Chevrolet Camaro.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Definitely the outings-aside from having fun, they bring us all together and help create a strong bond!”

Ray has always had a fascination with science and electronics since he was 10 years old. When he was in middle school he obtained his first PC from his uncle, and with his guidance learned the fundamentals of how computers function. By the time he reached high school, Ray's fascination became a passionate interest that drove him to find and fix all the PCs he could get his hands on. By the time he graduated high school in 2012, Ray owned and maintained over 10 computers, his own server, and had self-taught himself in all Windows operating systems since Windows 3.1. Through self-determination and natural mechanical inclination, he turned his passion into a career, obtaining real-life experience in several IT environments prior to coming to Charles IT. In his personal Life, Ray enjoys spending time with family and friends, is an avid Star Trek fan, and is a fan of the Boston Red Sox.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“FREE BEER! But also, the people. We have a great group of people that work here at Charles IT, and I am proud to be working alongside them all.”

Jeff grew up in Berlin, Connecticut and graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems. He has been using and fixing computers since he was a young child and has had a passion for IT. His first job was at computer build and repair shop at the age of fifteen and he has been employed in the industry ever since. At Charles IT Jeff’s number one priority is to provide top-notch customer support. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys spending time with his wife Shannon and going hiking with their dogs.

Sal is our Finance and Operations Manager, he has a degree in accounting from Southern Connecticut State University and an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. Sal is a numbers guy through and through as he is also currently a Certified Fraud Examiner. His favorite part of working here at Charles IT is learning about all the newest technology and figuring out ways to improve processes. As a Middletown native, he is very active in the community as a coach for the Middletown High School Ultimate Frisbee Team. In his spare time he enjoys playing Ultimate Frisbee and basketball, and hanging out with his Fiancé Libby and two dogs Maya and Booker.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“My favorite thing about working at Charles IT is having the dogs around to break up the day! #maya”

Like many of our team members, Patrick has been working with computers from a very young age. When he was only thirteen, he almost gave his father a heart attack when he was found taking apart and reassembling their family’s computer. He has since gone on to receive a degree in Network Technology from Manchester Community College. His goals for the customers of Charles IT is to find the right solutions that best serve their needs. In his spare time, Patrick enjoys watching sports and spending time with friends and family.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Free Beer!”

A programmer for over 15 years with expertise in many different programming languages, Lucas is a natural in his role as Lead Programmer on the Charles IT team. Lucas is particularly skilled in C, C++, and Python and well versed in all things Unix/Linux. He is crafty with databases, MySQL and Postgres in particular, and he is familiar with the server side of web frameworks with a strong preference for Django/Ruby on Rails. Some of Lucas’s accomplishments include building robots for which he wrote the embedded code in C and assembly that controlled them, contributions to a variety of open source projects including CEGUI and Wikipedia bots, and avidly contributing to Wikipedia articles. Since the day he was born, he would learn systems and their components by breaking and fixing everything around him. In his spare time, Lucas enjoys hiking the highest mountains, brewing beer, reading Wikipedia, and learning trivia facts.

Joe joined the growing Charles IT team in early 2016 as our Technical Service Coordinator. Joe loves technology and his interests range from electronics and car audio to anything that connects to the internet. Joe served for 4 years active duty in the US Navy working in communications and later returned to his home in Middlesex County to work in retail for 18 years. Joe is very active in the Middletown community and you can usually find him volunteering in some way, shape or form. Joe lives in Cromwell with his wife Jamie and they enjoy spending time with their Jack Russell, Batman. When he's not volunteering or playing with the latest technology, Joe enjoys riding his must-see fully loaded Can-Am Spyder with an incredible sound system.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“My teammates!”

Born and raised in upstate New York, Leigh has an insatiable love for everything Fall. Being a football coach’s wife and a mom of a young, spirited son, life is quite hectic at times and most Saturdays during the season are usually spent on the field. Leigh has over 10 years of retail management and customer service experience, and most recently spent the last couple of years in the IT world. She absolutely loves to cook and feed people as her Italian heritage and large family have taught her to do!

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Other than the people I work with…I love the small moment I get when speaking with clients as they call in to be as friendly, nice or accommodating as I can. I know it makes a difference and that always makes me feel good!”

Tom has spent his entire career working with computers, starting in the financial industry before later moving to Charles IT and choosing to work with a more diverse set of clients. He enjoys working with companies to make technology something they have to think about by utilizing his strong communication and planning skills. Outside of work Tom is an avid sports fan, rooting for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Chicago Blackhawks. Your best chances of finding him on the weekends are beside his charcoal grill, BBQing for his wife and son, or out playing Disc Golf.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Off the top of my head…

1. Kombucha – Keeping me full of that good bacteria (and healthier than soda)

2. Close Group – I have never worked somewhere with such a close group of friends. Nobody here is a ‘Co-Worker’ – I don’t think I could find that elsewhere if I tried

3. Outings – Work Hard Play Hard!

Zach has had a passion for technology since his parents got their first computer when he was two years old. He loves playing around with new and old technology and trying to figure out how to push it to its limits. Zach is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross where he worked for the school’s IT department while studying music and computer science. His favorite part about working at Charles IT is being able to help people while constantly learning new things about technology. In his spare time, Zach enjoys cooking and playing bass guitar.

Katie is a graduate of Massachusetts College of Art & Design. Before joining the Charles IT team, she worked as a buyer for an e-commerce jewelry retailer. This background in the fast paced fashion industry gave her the experience to take on the ever changing technology world. Katie comes from a family rooted in IT, as a kid her dad was determined to teach her to repair computers. They both quickly learned that she was better at shopping than computer repair and she found a knack as a buyer. In addition to procuring the latest and greatest technology, Katie is a car enthusiast and enjoys working on her two Ford Mustangs. When she’s not in the garage, she also enjoys spending weekends hiking with her dog Coby.

With no previous experience in Tech/IT, Alex joined the Charles IT team February of 2019 and has already moved his way up the ladder from Intern to Desktop Support Specialist!

Alex is a graduate from Full Sail University with a degree in Film. At a young age, he was taking apart and building his own computers and playing around with the extra hardware, but now, he is finally getting his hands dirty! Alex is always on the move, whether it be running to Starbucks for his colleagues, or configuring a workstation for a client, he’s always willing to help anyone in need, and thrives on the support he is providing.
When he’s not in the office, Alex enjoys long walks on the beach…yes, we know this is not a dating website…playing video games and baseball.

Favorite quote:
The odds of you being born are 400 trillion to 1. Make the most of it.

What would your last meal be?
Beef Stir Fry from Liuzzi Deli

Ashley is a graduate of the University of Connecticut with a degree in Design/Technical Theatre and also has her Culinary certificate from the Lincoln Technical Institute. Before her start at Charles IT, Ashley came from 8 years in the hospitality and wedding industry. Ashley has strong roots in Middletown, CT (born and raised) and is on the board for the Elizabeth Swaim Arts Enrichment Fund that helps to support the afterschool String Program for grades 1-5 in the Middletown Public School system. Currently, Ashley’s favorite activities include playing Overwatch, designing and making things on her laser cutter, and also creating costumes and props for herself, family, and friends.

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“It changes every day. Today, my favorite part was Liam, but other days I really love that I don’t have to do my laundry because of the free dry cleaning.”

Michelle is a graduate from Central Connecticut State University and has her degree in Public Relations and Marketing. She has over seven years of experience in Marketing, Social Media and Event Planning. Michelle has always loved the creativity that came along with the Marketing field and spends a lot of her time researching the latest trends and applying that into her everyday role. In her spare time, you’ll be sure to find Michelle hiking with her pup Gunner or reading in her hammock!

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“To me, the best part about working at Charles IT, besides having dogs in the office, would have to be the positive environment and amazing team that I work with. Foster created such a comfortable and collaborative setting where you are always given the opportunity to speak your mind and share your ideas (which are never shot down). We are always working together as a team to provide our clients with the best experience possible, and Foster is always making sure we have what we need in order to succeed.”

Bourbon or Wine?
Wine!

What is your go to ‘sing in the shower’ song?
Wayward Son or This Is Me from The Greatest Showman

Zak graduated from Lincoln Technical Institute and shortly after joined the Charles IT team! Through his experience on our team, Zak has learned that many principles including honesty and integrity go hand in hand with our core values here at Charles. In his free time Zak loves to trail walk, play his guitar and collect books!

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“My favorite part about CIT is the people. Everyone is happy to see one another, the office always has a happy, positive attitude, and everyone loves to share their own interests outside of IT with everyone. I learn new things every day!”

Favorite quote:
“You either get busy livin’, or you get busy dyin’”

If you could be in a movie of your choice, what movie would you choose and what character would you play?
The Matrix – Neo (of course)

Maya is a 5 year old Black Lab Mix who was rescued in Iowa. Maya boasts an impressive background in the intruder alert field, 5 years to be exact. Maya ensures the safety of all Charles IT employee's by letting them know someone is at the door, then proceeding to force them to pet her. Outside of work she spends most of her time sun bathing or surveying the neighborhood through her large bay window in the living room. She also loves to play in her fenced in backyard with her brother Booker in between tanning sessions.

Favorite Food:
Whatever dad is eating

Favorite Show:
Sportscenter

Favorite Activity:
Nap time

Liam is a 10-year-old Italian Greyhound specializing in napping and food begging. Nothing can wake Liam up out of a deep sleep faster than a cheese stick wrapper opening. Some of Liam’s skills include sitting, paw, requesting frequent walks, keeping to himself and not reciprocating other dog’s attempts at play time. Liam insists on joining every Charles IT meeting and employee interview to make sure that there is continuity with service delivery. When not at work as a full-time dog, Liam enjoys walks and hikes in the summer, sitting by the gas fireplace in the winter, and sunbathing.

Mike Bailie is one of Charles IT’s Sr. System Administrators. Joining the team in May of 2019, Mike brings to the team 14+ years of experience. Mike’s education and credentials are vast, including: CISSP, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Server+, and Alienvault USM Technician. A Tech guy through and through!
When Mike is not in the office, you’ll most likely find him somewhere outdoors either camping, fishing, boating or R/C car racing! Thanks for being a valued member of our team, Mike!

Bourbon or Wine?
Neither… Beer!

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
New Hampshire Mountains

Jr. Systems Administrator, Christian graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Computer Networking and Cybersecurity from Champlain College and has been with the Charles IT team since 2019! As a valued member of the CIT team, Christian brings his many years of experience to the table and is always striving to provide the best service to our customers.

When Christian is not providing excellent customer service to our clients, you’ll usually find him ice racing, camping or flying RC planes!

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“Flexible lunches.”

Favorite day of the week:
Thursday

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Northern Alaska

Pat joined the Charles IT team in August of 2019 (a day before his birthday to be exact!) and comes to us with more than 8 years of IT experience, and a degree in Networking from Gateway Community College, CCNA Certification.

Pat has been a great addition to the team, and constantly shares his knowledge which helps Charles IT continue to grow and succeed!

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
“My favorite part about working at Charles IT would have to be the Friday lunches. It’s really awesome to be able to try a new place each week and really expand my palate! It’s a great way to bring the team together after a long week.”

Bourbon or Wine?
Bourbon

“Chrispy” has always loved technology and spent a lot of his days tinkering with computers and setting up game servers…until one day he realized…people get paid to work on computers! Chris went back to school for his M.S. in Computer Information Technology (Networking) at CCSU and never looked back! He also has a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Hartford, very well rounded!

Chris takes pride in his customer service and analytical skills, and during his free time, you’ll catch him cooking a delicious meal, working in his HomeLab, trail running, reading and most of all, traveling!

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?

“The people and the culture are hands down my favorite aspect, but there is a lot to love. I feel like I have a real path for my career and both Charles IT and I are going to grow like crazy.”

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

On a cruise ship!

Shaun joined Charles IT in September of 2019 with over nine years of experience in IT! He graduated from Sacred Heart University in 2017 with his degree in Computer Science…go figure!

His tip skills include Windows PC/Server Management, Active Directory Management, Exchange/Office 365, Linux PC and more. These are all good things for you!

When Shaun is not in the office you can find him going HAM at the gym powerlifting or playing video games. He’s also a horror movie buff so he may be caught watching his favorite movies, Halloween or Nightmare on Elm Street.

Shaun knew he wanted to work with Charles IT, when he first heard about the company a few years ago. He deeply admired the core values, and the ideals that Charles IT instills, with providing the best service, for their clients. He felt this is the ideal place to grow and develop his skills.

Favorite Food:
Popcorn is my favorite snack food of all time! (I considered myself to be a popcorn connoisseur).

What is your favorite thing about working at Charles IT?:
Definitely the people. Since I’ve started, everyone has been super helpful, and supportive of my onboarding process. And if I have any questions/problems, there’s always someone to go to. Everyone’s been incredibly nice and welcoming!

And there’s always something to learn, or a new technology to play with!

Pat joined the Charles IT team in August of 2019 (a day before his birthday to be exact!) and comes to us with more than 8 years of IT experience, and a degree in Networking from Gateway Community College, CCNA Certification.

Pat has been a great addition to the team, and constantly shares his knowledge with his teammates.

Krys Velez joined the team in mid-2019 as an IT intern, and quickly moved up the ladder! Originally from Durham CT, Krys went to school at Vinyl Tech and then moved on to The University of New Haven.

Krys brings much to the table here at Charles IT. Not only tech and IT related, but he brings his many years of mechanical knowledge with him too! He’s Charles IT’s personal mechanic! With his vast knowledge Krys has been a great addition to the team!

Favorite Movie:
Star Wars Episode II

What is your favorite part about working at Charles IT?
My coworkers, everyone is extremely intelligent, kind, and fun to work with!

Gunner is a Boxer Mix who came all the way from Mississippi when he was just a pup. Gunner went seven whole years living off Mom and Dad, until 2019 when Mom told him he needed to get a job, so he joined Charles IT!

With no previous experience, Gunner quickly mastered the art of being nosy and involving himself in everyone’s business, whining and crying until someone pays attention to him.

When not in the office, you’ll be sure to find Gunner chasing away the bumblebees that live on his porch, visiting friends, or hiking with Mom.