Meet our IT Solutions Team - Smart Dolphins IT Solutions Inc.

Andrew Rivett

Virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO)

Aria Zahrabi

Alliance Relationship Implementation Advisor

Avi Narayan

Support Team Specialist

Bernard Orellano

Lead Generation Specialist

Christopher Kelsall

Technology Ambassador

CJ Sapnu

Support Team Specialist

Dave Monahan

President & Chief Executive Officer

David Hamilton

Centralized Services

Client Success Advocate

Haley Doehnel

Administrative Coordinator

Ian Bird

Project Delivery Specialist

Jesse Smith

Chief Operations Officer

Joe Payne

Technology Success Director

John Hall

Project Delivery Specialist

Jushua Carpio

Support Team Specialist

Keaton Mckay

Support Team Specialist

Laiza Mazza

Support Team & Centralized Services

Luke Jovanovic

Service Coordinator

Mariola Czerkawska

CFO | Marketing & HR Lead

Matthew Pajot-Gibb

Support Team Specialist

The Procure-mentalist

Radi Trahanov

Virtual IT Manager (vITM)

Rajib Das

Sean Forseth

Project Delivery Specialist

Ty Hedden

Virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO)

Werner Baron

Senior Support Team Specialist

Andrew Rivett

Virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO)

I started with Smart Dolphins in 2012 coming from a background providing varied IT support for a range of business and personal needs. I currently act as a Virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO), focusing primarily on our proactive approach to IT. My mission is to reduce business risk, which I accomplish through regular meetings with clients where I identify areas where we can drive alignment with our best practices. I am a knowledgeable resource and business technology advocate.

IT Specialization:

Microsoft 365
IT consulting, planning and budgeting
Cybersecurity
Windows Server
Active Directory

Certifications:

Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals
AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
CompTIA - Network+
HDI-SCA (HDI Support Center Analyst)
SC-900 (Microsoft Security, Compliance, and Identity)

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Aria Zahrabi

Alliance Relationship Implementation Advisor

Having joined Smart Dolphins in 2023, I’m responsible for growing our business in Greater Vancouver as we expand as a regional player in Vancouver Island and BC’s South Coast. With over 20 years of experience in small and medium business development and a former small business owner, I strive to put myself in the shoes of business owners and leaders when looking at solving their technology challenges. My experiences have spanned a variety of industries including telecommunications, digital media, print & design marketing and IT. When I’m not solving IT challenges you can find me coaching my kids’ soccer teams, watching NFL football or spending time with my family!

Avi Naray

Support Technician

I started my career at Smart Dolphins as an IT technician. I will mainly be based in the Vancouver area while often visiting the Victoria offices and coordinating with my fellow Dolphins. I look forward to further growing myself as an individual and team member while further supporting our clients to the best of my capabilities.

IT Specialization:

Remote and onsite support
Client onboarding
Software and hardware support
Diagnosis

Certifications:

Scrum Master
CAPM

BERNARD ORELLANO

Lead Generation Specialist

Bio to come!

Christopher Kelsall

Technology Ambassador

I chose to join the Pod at Smart Dolphins IT Solutions because the company is like none other. From the top-down, as well as from inside to outwardly-looking, the organization evokes a spirit of high-level care and excellence. That spirit manifests in a quality ethos defined by its award-winning culture (as the 2017 Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Workplace winner, for example). Extraordinary results can be found here. I am proud to say that I represent one of the very best IT companies in the province.

With 30 years of experience in sales management and sales coaching as well as, marketing, event management and various roles in sport, I have learned what works for the now and what works for the common good, long-term. Smart Dolphins embodies the common good ethics from the bottom up and throughout the organization. Having a clear conscience while out cycling, kayaking, photo and video capturing, exploring and being involved with various sports around the city, allows my down-time to be freeing and meaningful and my up-time to being productive.

Specialization:

Communications
Business development
Marketing

CJ Sapnu

Support Team Specialist

Bio to come!

Dave Monahan

President & Chief Executive Officer

I founded Smart Dolphins IT Solutions on May 1st 2000 out of the back room of my house. Initially, Smart Dolphins was created to fulfill the work experience requirement of my technology schooling, but it was clear that I had started something that was valuable to the world and so I have continued to build this value over the past two decades.

As we’ve grown and hired more Dolphins, I have moved away from the technology side and now focus on working on the business. For me, the cup is ALWAYS half full – I’m happy with our success and growth, but I always know we can do more and do things better. I am thirsty for business knowledge and skills and I’m always looking to borrow ideas from others who have been successful. This has driven Smart Dolphins to continuously adapt and embrace new industry best practices and ultimately led us to adopting the world class managed IT services approach that we deliver today.

Today, I continue to focus on thought leadership, growth and building an award-winning team and workplace. Trust me, you don’t want to ask me to resolve your IT challenges! There are REAL Smart Dolphins here for that!

Leadership Expertise:

IT leadership
IT management
Managed IT services
Business development
Thought leadership
Business systems and management
Change management

Education

Bachelor of Economics, University of Victoria
Application and Management of Information Technology Program (AMIT), University of Victoria

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David Hamilton

Support Team Specialist

I have been working with computers since the 3rd generation TRS-80. I began my IT career in the 1990’s with a focus on securing clients machines against malware. I moved to Victoria, BC in 2005 and I love working with a positive and experienced IT team.

IT Specialization:

Powershell
Windows Server
Linux Server
SQL Database

Client Feedback

"David was great! I think it was an unusual remote access issue and he professionally and efficiently solved it. He also showed me how existing VPN access was available which I wasn't aware of. Thank you David!" —Jonathan

"David was cheerful kind and helpful at 9pm on a Saturday evening on his son's birthday no less." — Shelley

"Everything - David was a delight and most helpful". — Lori

"David is always very understanding of my problems!" — Ranj

"David did another amazing job!. Thanks!" — Nicola

Haley Doehnel

Administrative Coordinator

Applying for a tech company was an exciting journey for me, as I had limited knowledge of MSPs, could not troubleshoot a computer, and had never worked outside of the hospitality industry. Fresh out of college, Smart Dolphins took me under their fins and provided me with the tools to learn and grow.

Now, while I still don’t troubleshoot computers, I’m behind the scenes in other ways – whether that’s remotely or in our physical office space. You can find me invoicing our clients, managing the AR, managing the office, organizing events for the company, keeping in touch with our clients, doing graphic design, assisting with marketing, leading the JOSH Committee, and assisting in various other capacities. I learn new things every day and I love being able to lend a hand wherever I can!

Certifications:

Executive Office Administration Diploma
Occupational First Aid Level 1

Ian Bird

Project Delivery Specialist

The bulk of my time is dedicated to ensuring that our clients’ IT processes and services are up-to-date. If I am not in someone’s doorway, I am usually in my office scanning through articles about the latest updates and tools that will improve Smart Dolphins’ processes and protect our clients. In my spare time, I balance my geekdom with my love for nature. I am a Dungeon Master (Dungeons and Dragons), a Commander of Armies (Warhammer, Warmachine, X-Wing) and I enjoy hiking through the many trails in the Greater Victoria region.

IT Certifications:

Project scoping and implementation
IT support
IT management

Certifications:

StorageCraft Engineer Fundamentals
LabTech Certification
CompTIA - Network+

Client feedback

"I am more than satisfied. Ian Bird is always an incredible help. Nothing is ever too much and he is very patient. Our migration to the cloud has been painless. thanks, Ian." — Ted "Ian Bird was able to help me out this morning in record time with a small IT issue, perhaps the best service I have received." — Jon

Jesse Smith

COO

I began my career with Smart Dolphins IT Solutions in 2004. Recently out of college, I was eager and confident; and those traits were magnified tenfold when I discovered Smart Dolphins. I was drawn here in a way that is difficult to describe, and began to view all other opportunities in a diminished light. This is where I wanted to be, and fortunately this is where I landed.

I am a problem solver with a talent for seeing the big picture. I am always looking for ways to improve. When I began here, I applied those traits in a technical capacity to help Smart Dolphins evolve its solutions. Nowadays, I apply my skills and vision in my COO role and work hard to improve our strategy, processes, and our people.

IT Specialization:

Microsoft 365
Cloud computing
Cybersecurity
IT consulting
IT management
IT leadership

Certifications:

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring
Microsoft Certified Professional
Small Business Specialist Designation
Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundations
Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals
MD-100

Education

Computer Engineering Technology Diploma, Camosun College

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Joe Payne

Technology Success Director

I moved to Victoria from Nelson in search of a job in the tech sector back in 2003. I first started with Smart Dolphins as an Onsite Technician. In this role, I performed tasks as simple as turning a computer off and on again and as complex as migrating a company's data and applications to new server hardware. After many years, I realized I enjoyed human interaction as much as technical work. This led to a natural progression into a consulting role. I now lead our Professional Service Team implementing technology solutions for our clients.

IT Certifications:

Microsoft 365
Cloud computing
Project planning
IT consulting
IT management

Certifications:

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
Microsoft Certified Professional
Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuration
Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundations
Microsoft 365 Certified Fundamentals

Education

Computer and Information Systems Diploma, Selkirk College

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John hall

Project Delivery Specialist

Ever since beginning my studies in IT, I've been draw to the world of networking and the role it plays in facilitating communication between people. My first few full-time IT roles were at satellite Internet Service Providers, before I made the move into the world of Managed Service Providers as a network specialist.
I love working in the places where the physical meets the digital, where our thoughts and words become a billion little electron flicks per second across tiny pieces of copper and glass and flying through the air.

Jushua Carpio

Support Technician

I recently joined the team as an IT Support Technician. I used to be a team leader for a service desk, but I enjoy being a support technician so here I am. I am learning and doing what I am passionate about and that for me is key!

IT Certifications:

IT troubleshooting
Customer service
User administration

Certifications:

Bachelor of Science (Computer Science)

KEATON MCKAY

Support Team Specialist

Hi, I’m Keaton, your Rapid Response Technician at Smart Dolphins! I am ready to dive into your technology with my strong grasp of computer hardware, software, and network troubleshooting! As a recent newcomer to Victoria, I offer a fresh perspective to the Pod and bring my friendly attitude to every call and meeting. I look forward to continuing to provide top-notch technology solutions to our clients and am excited to continue growing with the team! When I’m not delivering top-notch solutions for our clients, you can find me digging into the latest SMART technology or hanging with my friends and family.

Laiza Mazza

Support Technician

I have been in the IT industry for more than 5 years now. I love helping people in resolving their technical issues. Every day is a challenge since there will be some issues that you have not encountered before and you need to be resourceful in finding the resolution.

IT Specialization:

Troubleshooting
User access management
Office 365 administration
Software installs

Certifications:

Associate Degree in Computer Engineering Technology
ITIL V3 Foundation

Luke Jovanovic

Service Coordinator

I’m originally from Australia and I have been in customer service roles for many years and worked with a variety of clientele. I believe in going beyond merely communicating to ‘connecting’ with people. My passion for technology drew me to Smart Dolphins IT Solutions and I plan to use the skills and experience I learn to elevate Smart Dolphins' customer experience. I currently work on the IT helpdesk.

Client feedback:

"Awesome solutions on short notice to get me through while my workstation is being worked on. Thanks Luke!" — Sandy"Luke is awesome." — Matt "Luke, thank you for going the extra mile and asking some extra questions to help facilitate this process. Always a pleasure to work with you!" — Britt "Luke was great....timely, patient and problem solved." — Ted

Mariola Czerkawska

CFO | Marketing & HR Lead

I have been with Smart Dolphins since 2006. My primary focus is accounting but my passion for our team has also led me into the HR development role. My mind is in the details and my job is translating them into the big picture - so I can do my part in navigating our company towards it’s intended mission and goals. You will no longer find me at the Victoria HQ, I have been working remotely since 2014. My military partner has taken me from Victoria to Colorado Springs, to now Ottawa. I am extremely fortunate to be able to say, I love what I do, but more importantly, I love where I work!

Education

Bachelor of Science, PCP Certification, PEP CPABC Candidate

Matthew Pajot-Gibb

Support Technician

I was born and raised in Manitoba. I’ve always had an interest in everything computers. After nearly a decade of customer service experience, I decided to take the leap and turn my hobby into something more, pursuing a technical diploma in the summer of 2019. With a bit of experience under my belt I decided to move out to the west coast of Victoria BC, knowing IT was right for me. I’ve found a home on the Smart Dolphins support team assisting in a variety of ways, from onsite visits to remote work as well.

IT Specialization:

Microsoft 365
Windows Server
Active Directory
Exchange Server

Certifications:

AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
MS-900 Microsoft 365 Fundamentals

Client feedback

"Matthew was helpful and attentive to our needs. Appreciate his service." — Adam
"Matt is always excellent Thanks, Matt!" — Roya
"Matthew's response was very quick and solved the issue immediately. I like his calm manner and letting me know the estimate time of recovery of the problem. Thank you, Matthew!" —Chieko
"The setup was done efficiently. Matthew made sure that the new/second monitor is working and provided feedback on using it." —Mirko
"Speed of response and solving problem quickly. Thanks Matthew." —Marilyn

THE PROCURE-MENTALIST

With a knack for pairing the perfect products with their ideal owners, they're like the Cupid of the procurement world. Armed not with arrows, but with a keen eye for quality and a heart full of client needs, they're here to ensure every purchase is a tailor-made masterpiece. When they're not orchestrating product symphonies, you might find them fine-tuning their inventory harmonies or hosting procurement brainstorming sessions (okay, maybe not the last one, but it's a thought!). Just remember, when you see them in action, be prepared to witness some procurement magic like never before!

Special Skills

Certifications

Product Alchemy: They possess the ability to transform ordinary procurement into extraordinary partnerships, like turning lead into gold (figuratively, of course).
Client Whisperer: Their talent for deciphering client needs is so uncanny that they can hear what clients really want, even when they're not saying it out loud.
Inventory Maestro: They can conduct an inventory symphony, orchestrating the perfect blend of products to meet client demands, and the result is always a harmonious success.
Detail Divination: No detail is too small to escape their notice. They have a sixth sense for spotting quality and ensuring nothing slips through the procurement cracks.
Creative Connector: While they may not host procurement brainstorming sessions (yet), their ability to connect the dots and find innovative solutions sets them apart.

Certified Product Whisperer: Awarded by the International Society of Procurement Mystics for the uncanny ability to communicate with products on a spiritual level.
Doctorate in Clientology: Graduated magna cum laughter from the University of Client Understanding, with a dissertation on "The Humorous Side of Client Needs."
Ph.D. in Sourcing Sorcery: Awarded by the School of Sourcing Secrets for the profound knowledge of finding hidden treasures among suppliers.
Certified Inventory Symphony Conductor: Given by the Melodic Materials Management Institute for turning every inventory into a harmonious symphony of products.

Radi Trahanov

VIRTUAL IT MANAGER (vITM)

I was drawn to technology in the late '90s and I knew that I wanted to build my career in IT. In 2001 my brother and I opened our own internet cafe where we set up the computers - the cafe became my second home. My passion for tech has never faded. In my free time, I focus on ongoing IT learning and I am especially interested in new trends and technologies. Above all, I enjoy sharing my passion of technology with others, resolving IT problems and developing great rapport with those I interact with. I am happy to bring my skills to Smart Dolphins IT support team.

Client feedback:

"Radi was very pleasant to deal with." — Bethany "Radi was very prompt and professional. Problem was solved in an acceptable time frame." — Hunter

Sean Forseth

Project Delivery Specialist

My interest in technology started with a Tandy 3000, when I was 9 years old. In 2003, I completed my diploma in Windows Administration and Network Infrastructure. It took a few years after that to land my first job in the IT sector. I started working for another IT company doing government IT contracts. This involved mainly desk-side support for all the various ministries. In 2007, I joined the Pod. I started out as an Onsite Technician doing desk-side support and projects. Most of my time consisted of project work for our clients performing small business migrations, workstation deployments, and network setups. I then progressed into the Net Admin.

During my time at Smart Dolphins, I have always enjoyed the project side of IT. I am now a Project Engineer at Smart Dolphins. This role consists of a variety of work, including email migrations to Office 365, moving infrastructure to hyper visor platforms, data/application moves and implementing new hardware.

Certifications:

AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator
Microsoft Server Certification Associate
Windows Server 2012
CompTIA – Network+
Microsoft Certified Professional

Education

Windows Server Administration and Network Infrastructure Diploma, CDI College

Ty Hedden

Virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO)

Originally from PEI and after living in many parts of BC, I decided to settle down on my second island home in Victoria. The year-round mountain biking and outdoor opportunities made it an easy decision.

With nearly a decade of experience at Smart Dolphins, I’ve filled a variety of roles in the company, including a service desk manager, network admin and today, as a Virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO). I translate technical needs and options into business strategy allowing business owners to “get out of the IT business” and focus on their own success. It’s a great balance of technical work and working with people.

IT Specialization:

Microsoft 365
IT consulting, planning and budgeting
Cybersecurity

Certifications:

Microsoft 365 Certified Fundamentals
SC-900 (Microsoft Security, Compliance, and Identity)
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Fundamentals
Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundations
HDI-SCA (HDI Support Center Analyst)

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Werner Baron

Senior support team specialist

I work closely with Smart Dolphins’ clients, to get them out of the IT mediocrity spiral, through proactive management and onsite support. I know how to assess, proactively manage and protect office networks and systems from threats, I believe in preventing issues before they occur, and doing things right the first time.

I have worked for 20 years in the IT industry in numerous facets from local ISP, PC repair, support, and for a large service provider in an infrastructure support and troubleshooting role. I am trained on Windows servers and workstations, medium size networks, and extensive training in ISP Infrastructure support; I am currently working on certifications to support my background in a more official manner.

IT Specialization:

Centralized services
Automation and monitoring
Business continuity (backup and disaster recovery)
Cybersecurity

Certifications:

Technical Specialist 2 Certification
StorageCraft Certified Engineer
CompTIA – Network+
Connectwise University - Certificate of Completion

Education

Bachelor of Arts, Vancouver Island University

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