About Me | Richard Applegate

My name is Richard A., and I am hard of hearing with advanced proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL). I currently hold the roles of Maintenance Repair, IT, and Network Administrator at Anthem Coffee and Tea, as well as IT Manager at Joe Coffee. I am proud to contribute my expertise and technical skills to both organizations.

Outside of work, I am passionate about maintaining my personal server lab, which comprises three Linux Ubuntu servers running on Cloudron. I dedicate time to implementing system updates, strengthening security, and optimizing performance. I particularly value Cloudron’s robust feature set—its efficient backup system, in particular, has proven invaluable in simplifying server administration and saving me considerable time.

About my work experience:

Since 2019, I have worked as the IT and Network Administrator for Anthem Coffee and Tea, a vibrant and expanding coffee shop chain. In this position, I support eight unique store locations across two states—six in the bustling communities of Washington and two in the dynamic landscapes of Arizona. My primary responsibility is to ensure seamless IT operations throughout these geographically diverse shops, each presenting its own distinct challenges and needs.

In addition to my position at Anthem Coffee and Tea, I also serve as the IT Manager for Joe Coffee Mobile to Go, a successful mobile coffee service business that brings high-quality coffee experiences directly to customers. Managing these dual roles has given me a well-rounded understanding of both traditional storefronts and mobile retail operations, significantly strengthening my adaptability and problem-solving skills within IT.

Over the years, I have gained extensive hands-on experience in both the technical and operational sides of retail IT. One of my key strengths is deploying, configuring, and managing the Joe Coffee Point of Sale (POS) system, which is essential for streamlining transactions and inventory management across all store locations. I am also skilled at implementing the Joe Order Management (Joe Food/Drink KDS), which helps improve order accuracy and workflow efficiency for staff. As part of my ongoing responsibilities, I have successfully overseen the installation and maintenance of secure and reliable network infrastructure at all eight locations, handling everything from high-speed internet access to advanced wireless solutions.

Beyond these primary duties, my expertise extends to delivering a full range of IT and hosting services designed to optimize business operations in the retail sector. I provide robust email hosting solutions to ensure secure and efficient communication across team members. I also oversee security camera systems—including installation, setup, and real-time monitoring—to protect staff, customers, and assets. In addition, my web hosting services support a strong, professional online presence for the businesses I work with, and my background with Nextcloud enables secure, private file sharing and collaboration for staff and management alike.

For remote administration and technical troubleshooting, I use RustDesk, which enables efficient access to and management of systems from anywhere. I also manage DNS servers to ensure reliable connectivity and fast domain resolution. In addition, I oversee the deployment and upkeep of Omada network hosting, delivering enterprise-grade wireless networking solutions that are customized to the specific needs of each location.

Through these varied responsibilities, I have built a broad and adaptable skill set that empowers me to provide reliable, scalable, and tailored IT and network solutions. My approach centers on understanding and meeting the unique needs of each store and team, making sure technology forms a solid foundation for continued growth and success in a fast-paced retail environment. My commitment to excellence, along with my ability to communicate effectively in both spoken English and ASL, makes me a strong collaborator and a trusted resource for the businesses and communities I am honored to serve.