James Franks
Benton
Summary
Creative and results-driven professional with over 20 years of diverse experience spanning client advertising design, marketing, software and hardware installation, computer programming, database management, and customer service. Known for bringing energy, innovation, and technical expertise to deliver effective solutions and enhance client satisfaction.
Experienced with configuring and managing network infrastructures. Utilizes advanced troubleshooting techniques to ensure network reliability and performance. Track record of implementing security measures to protect organizational data and resources.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Network Specialist II
Little Rock School District
Little Rock, AR
01.2025 - Current
- Design and deploy innovative network solutions while optimizing performance of existing infrastructure
- Install, configure, and maintain network hardware, including routers, switches, proxy servers, WAN accelerators, DNS, and DHCP systems
- Source and procure network equipment and coordinate subcontractors for seamless installation and implementation
- Configure and manage firewalls, routing, and switching to enhance network security and efficiency
- Monitor network performance and perform proactive troubleshooting to ensure optimal uptime
- Plan and execute scheduled system upgrades with minimal disruption to operations
- Diagnose network issues and implement effective solutions to resolve faults quickly
- Provide comprehensive network administration and technical support across multiple IT projects
- Analyze and report on network performance, prioritizing critical issues and managing related initiatives
- Strengthen network security by developing, enforcing, and monitoring access controls and policies
IT Service Desk Specialist
Arkansas Department of Transportation
Little Rock, AR
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Stay current on emerging technologies, systems, and operational procedures to ensure effective support
- Serve as the primary point of contact for Tier 1 support, resolving user issues through active engagement in the IT Call Center
- Support installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of hardware and software as needed
- Contribute to technology initiatives by assisting with project tasks and implementation components
- Deliver timely, professional, and customer-focused support to end users
Commercial Driver
Waste Management
Little Rock, AR
01.2020 - 01.2024
- Operate heavy-duty trucks equipped with front- and rear-end load lift systems
- Perform timely collection of waste and recyclable materials from designated containers
- Safely maneuver and position wheeled containers for efficient pickup
- Inspect containers and report those requiring repair or replacement
- Accurately complete and submit customer service tickets using the onboard tablet (OBU)
- Fulfill assigned routes and collaborate with team members to ensure all customer needs are met
Software Support Analyst
Arkansas Department of Workforce Services
Little Rock, AR
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Develop and execute SQL programs to generate and submit Agency Leave Reports
- Perform data validation by cross-referencing files across multiple databases for the AR Works New Hire Report
- Design and maintain SQL database structures, including tables and relationships
- Write and optimize SQL queries to produce internal reports for staff and leadership
- Collaborate with developers to troubleshoot and resolve production issues within .NET applications
- Contribute to the full software development lifecycle, including development, debugging, testing, and implementation of .NET solutions
- Maintain and update legacy VB6 forms on the INET platform
- Test and validate .NET interfaces converted from legacy green screen systems
- Partner with DIS to identify and resolve production system issues
- Process and submit TOP data report files to the IRS in compliance with requirements
- Update and maintain the ADWS website on a regular (weekly) basis
Computer Support Analyst
Arkansas Department of Workforce Services
Little Rock, AR
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Collaborated with senior programming team to develop SQL queries for internal staff reporting
- Managed weekly website updates by publishing new data to the ADWS site using the WordPress platform
- Partnered with AJL on system updates and report generation
- Designed and updated forms using Adobe Creative Suite (CS4)
- Processed and submitted TOP data report files to the IRS in compliance with requirements
- Coordinated with developers to troubleshoot and resolve production issues in .NET applications
- Maintained and updated legacy VB6 forms on the INET website
- Contributed to the development lifecycle of .NET applications, including debugging, testing, and implementation
- Tested .NET interfaces converted from legacy green screen systems to ensure accuracy and functionality
- Worked with DIS to diagnose and resolve production-related issues
- Performed data entry and supported general administrative office operations
Lead Graphic Designer
Glazer’s Wholesale Distributors
North Little Rock, AR
01.2005 - 01.2014
- Led client consultations to assess marketing needs and develop tailored solutions
- Created and presented design mockups to local businesses, refining concepts to align with client goals and budgets
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including designers, developers, and technicians, to produce and deliver final products
- Designed and delivered creative marketing concepts to support business growth
- Installed and configured computer hardware and software systems for clients
- Provided on-site technical support, troubleshooting hardware and software issues with effective solutions
- Set up new users on company networks, including router installation, hub station configuration, and signal testing
- Managed shipping and receiving of materials and completed products
- Performed high-volume data entry and supported general office operations
Accounting Technician II
Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
Little Rock, AR
01.2002 - 01.2005
- Review, audit, and process invoices within the AASIS system to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Maintain and reconcile general ledger accounts for departmental operations
- Calculate and allocate funding for new and existing accounts or projects
- Develop and manage forms and documentation for specialized accounts
- Analyze and verify posted entries to ensure accuracy across ledgers and accounts
- Balance accounts and assist with month-end and year-end close processes as needed
- Perform high-volume data entry and support general administrative functions
Education
Associates of Applied Science - Computer Information Systems
Pulaski Technical College
North Little Rock, ARSkills
- Windows Operating System
- MS Outlook, Word, Excel
- IP Networking
- Hardware / Software Installation
- Visual Basic, Advanced Visual Basic
- AS400 and AASIS System
- Corel Draw 4
- Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, PDF
- Notary Public
- Eschool/Cognos
- Website Platforms: WordPress, Expression engine
Certification
University of Arkansas Professional ACDS Certification-SQL
Timeline
Network Specialist II
Little Rock School District
01.2025 - Current
IT Service Desk Specialist
Arkansas Department of Transportation
01.2024 - 01.2025
Commercial Driver
Waste Management
01.2020 - 01.2024
Software Support Analyst
Arkansas Department of Workforce Services
01.2018 - 01.2020
Computer Support Analyst
Arkansas Department of Workforce Services
01.2015 - 01.2018
Lead Graphic Designer
Glazer’s Wholesale Distributors
01.2005 - 01.2014
Accounting Technician II
Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
01.2002 - 01.2005
Associates of Applied Science - Computer Information Systems
Pulaski Technical College