Mark LaCore
As a technologist with over 25 years of experience in IT, I bring a unique blend of broad technical knowledge and specialized expertise to any team. My passion lies in automating tedious tasks and creating innovative tools in the IT and cloud space. With extensive experience across various public and private cloud technology stacks and cloud services, I excel at designing and implementing tailored solutions for organizations. I'm not just an asset for an IT team, but also a cybersecurity expert with deep knowledge of both offensive and defensive security practices.
I'm thoroughly enjoying leveraging the new AI tools available that allow us to code more efficiently, securely, and creatively, transforming how we approach complex technical challenges. Whether at work developing security microservices or in personal projects reviving old codebases, I use AI-assisted development tools to clean up existing code, refactor large systems that have grown unwieldy over time, and accelerate the development of innovative solutions.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I'm an avid maker with a home lab where I experiment with various technologies. This hands-on approach not only fuels my continuous learning but also enhances my problem-solving skills in professional settings. I maintain a sophisticated testing environment where I can safely explore new security tools and techniques.
As a hacker at heart, I enjoy participating in Capture the Flag competitions where I can exercise my extensive knowledge of the tools necessary to perform on both red and blue teams. This competitive cybersecurity experience keeps my skills sharp and provides practical experience with the latest attack vectors and defensive strategies.
In my personal life, I'm a devoted husband and father. I find joy in playing guitar, often accompanying my favorite bands. As a gaming enthusiast, I enjoy connecting with friends through video games. My curiosity extends to the world of microdrones, where I find building and flying them to be an exhilarating hobby.
This diverse set of interests and experiences allows me to approach technical challenges with creativity and adaptability, making me a valuable asset in dynamic IT and cybersecurity environments.
Core Competencies
- Cloud Technologies (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Automation & DevOps
- Virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V, KVM)
- Infrastructure as Code
- Full-Stack Development
- Windows & Linux Administration
- Security & Compliance
- CI/CD Pipelines
Professional Experience
Sr. Software Engineer at Apple Cupertino, 2017 - Present- Developed and maintained security tools and microservices for automatic onboarding of Windows systems into internal security platforms.
- Built and maintained SCCM environment for Windows systems.
- Created PowerShell-based "Minimum Security Requirements" telemetry tool.
- Implemented Python-based ServiceNow ticket/work order automations.
- Designed web service for software signing of PE binaries and MSI files with Microsoft Authenticode certificate in HSM.
- Applied red team methodologies and offensive security knowledge to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen defensive capabilities across enterprise systems.
- Leveraging modern AI development tools to enhance code quality, security, and maintainability across legacy systems while accelerating development cycles for new security initiatives.
- Managed Configuration Manager for ongoing configuration management, reporting, patch management, and compliance enforcement.
- Developed zero-touch computer provisioning task sequences for Desktop team.
- Designed Retail/Wellness Center IT support infrastructure.
- Implemented System Center Orchestrator to automate IT processes, including new hires and terminations.
- Provided customer support for Windows Client/Server environments.
- Worked with System Center Configuration Manager, Microsoft Exchange, Linux, Active Directory, and Citrix.
- Developed and maintained custom tools for internal use.
- Designed entire network infrastructure based on Active Directory, Exchange, and BlackBerry.
- Provided comprehensive IT support for all users.
- Provided IT support for all users and maintained McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator.
- Performed server rack & stack for IT and user systems.
- Provided 2nd-tier desktop support to local users.
- Assisted in the deployment of Windows 2000.
Technical Proficiencies
- Cloud: Amazon Web Services , Microsoft Azure , Google Cloud Platform , Private Cloud, Hybrid Cloud
- Virtualization: VMware, Hyper-V, VirtualBox, Parallels, KVM, QEMU
- Containers: Docker , Kubernetes
- Languages: Python , PowerShell
- AI-Assisted Development: Proficient with modern AI coding tools for code generation, refactoring, debugging, and security enhancement
- Cybersecurity: Penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, red team/blue team operations, CTF competition experience
- Security Tools: Metasploit, Nmap, Wireshark, Burp Suite, OWASP testing frameworks, various exploitation and defensive tools
- OS: Windows , Linux , MacOS
- Other: Git, Active Directory, Microsoft System Center, Exchange, IPv4/IPv6 Management
Certifications
- CISSP - ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional
- CC - ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity
- MCSE - Microsoft Certified System Engineer
- MCSA - Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate
- MCITP - Microsoft Certified IT Professional
- RHCSA - RedHat Certified Systems Administrator
- RHCT - RedHat Certified Systems Technician
Additional Skills
- 3D Modeling & Printing
- Electronics & Prototyping
- Home Automation
- Maker Technologies (Arduino, Raspberry Pi , Micropython)
Professional Preferences
- Flexible working arrangement: Home office, 7AM - 4PM
- Open to hybrid arrangement if office is in Downtown San Jose
- Seeking a mutually supportive team environment
- Interested in companies valuing diversity and inclusion
- Competitive compensation and benefits appropriate for Silicon Valley
Note: Not currently seeking new employment, but open to hearing about opportunities that align with my preferences and skills.
