Building Custom Solutions with Quality at the Core

As a System Integration Technician at SealingTech, my team and I are responsible for building custom defense systems that are not only powerful but also tailored to the unique needs of our customers. From selecting the right hardware specifications to configuring the complex systems into a carry-on compliant Cyber-Fly-Away Kit, we focus on optimizing performance, scalability, and reliability. 

Every system we build is designed to meet specific operational goals. Whether the customer requires a system for high-speed data processing, large-scale storage, or enhanced networking capabilities, we select each component to ensure optimal performance. This involves selecting RAM, storage, and processors to meet the customer’s use case. Each system is not just assembled; it is carefully crafted to be a reliable and efficient part of the customer’s current infrastructure. 

Our process goes beyond component selection, we also focus on optimizing cable management and component layout to improve airflow and make future upgrades and maintenance easier. These small details make a big difference in the overall performance and longevity of the systems we build adding efficiency and value for our customers. 

From Managing a Team to Building Networks 

Before joining SealingTech, I was a General Manager at a popular food chain where I developed critical problem-solving, time management, and team leadership skills. My responsibilities included running the day-to-day operations, which involved troubleshooting network issues with our point-of-sale systems and ensuring everything ran smoothly. Much like my current role, I had to handle problems quickly and efficiently, although my work now takes place behind the scenes rather than in front of customers. 

Alongside my work experience, I’ve earned several certifications, including CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+, which have provided me with a solid foundation in IT and cybersecurity. These certifications have been key in helping me transition into my role at SealingTech, where I now get to apply both technical knowledge and teamwork in a new way. 

Constructing Systems Tailored to Client Needs 

Our experienced team of System Integration Technicians builds systems that are engineered to meet the specific needs of each customer including switches, servers, and our unique Cyber-Fly-Away Kit 3U and 4U Cases. Our process begins by understanding the customer’s use case and requirements. Whether it’s more processing power, increased storage, or improved network performance, we carefully configure each system based on those requirements; we select components to provide the required memory and storage capacity, processing speed, and networking interfaces to ensure the system meets and exceeds the customer’s expectations. During the assembly phase, we meticulously assemble each component, from installing CPUs onto motherboards to securing RAM modules and storage drives. Each part is carefully fitted, ensuring proper alignment and tight connections. We use precision tools to install components like heat sinks, fans, and power supplies, paying close attention to the thermal dynamics to prevent overheating. 

In addition to selecting and installing the right hardware, our meticulous attention to detail helps ensure reliability, supporting our cyber-warfighters in their missions. 

“Our production team excels at managing challenging and fast-paced workloads by relying on well-established, standardized processes. This approach ensures that we maintain consistent quality and efficiency, even under pressure, allowing us to meet tight deadlines without compromising our high standards.” 

—Andrew Witt, Production Manager 

Inside the SN 7100: A Look at the Customization Process 

The SN 7100 is my favorite server to build so far and is a great example of how we approach customization. Its system is designed with a focus on both processing power and data storage to meet the client’s most demanding requirements. Each component of the system is carefully selected to meet specific performance targets without overloading or underutilizing the hardware. 

One of the most important aspects of building the SN 7100 is the internal cable management. We work to ensure that the cable management is not only efficient, but also organized in a way that minimizes interference between the various components while allowing for ease of maintenance. Cooling is a key focus, with the layout designed to maximize airflow, keeping the system running smoothly even under heavy workloads. 

Precision in Assembly and Layout 

Our production processes include a precise approach to how systems are physically assembled and organized. We carefully plan how wiring is routed, the power distributed, and airflow optimized to maintain system efficiency and prevent overheating. In addition to airflow, we pay attention to every detail during assembly. For example, by using a thread locking compound to secure each screw, we ensure every component stays firmly in place during rough handling typically seen during transport and extended use in austere environments. This extra step guarantees that the system remains durable, reliable, and complies with our ISO 9001:2015 quality standards. 

We also ensure that each Cyber-Fly-Away Kit is modular and organized to facilitate future upgrades and maintenance. Some customers need configurations that allow for quick drive swaps or expanded storage. By ensuring our systems are modular, we make it easier for them to adapt their systems as their needs grow. 

Quality Assurance: Ensuring Every System Meets ISO 9001 Standards 

At SealingTech, we instill quality into every phase of our process. Our expert team adheres to ISO 9001 standards to ensure every system meets strict performance and reliability benchmarks. From the start, we check the system’s hardware clock, serial numbers, and basic input/output system (BIOS) configurations to ensure everything is set up correctly. We verify that the baseboard management controller (BMC) password, firmware, and system memory are updated and functioning properly, ensuring security and stability. 

Next, we dive into rigorous hardware testing. This includes verifying that the expected RAM is installed and functional, and monitoring the health of all storage devices, checking metrics such as gigabytes (GB) written, temperature, and power-on hours. We also run diagnostics on the network interface cards to confirm their speeds and ensure firmware stays up to date. 

For stress testing, we run tools like Prime95 and FIO to push the CPU and drives to their limits. We closely monitor temperatures, fan speeds, and system stability under heavy loads. For example, in one test, we confirmed that network interface cards were delivering gigabit speeds without interruption, and the power supply remained stable throughout extended stress testing. Another test demonstrated that the CPU stayed below 95°C during peak performance, and the storage drives handled over 100GB of write operations per hour without degradation We also log data from temperature sensors throughout the system, ensuring it operates within safe thresholds. 

By the end of testing, every system passes through detailed checks, ensuring that it is ready for delivery and meets all quality standards. This comprehensive process ensures our systems are reliable, efficient, and built to last. 

“Quality assurance is a company-wide effort at SealingTech. Our team’s process focuses on preventing defects and ensuring consistency. We rely on documented processes to guide our work, carefully track nonconformances, and monitor corrective and preventative actions. By using documented procedures and working closely with suppliers, we ensure that our products and services continue to exceed customer expectations.” 

—Madeline Clements, Quality Assurance Manager 

“When we do QA, it’s not just about checking boxes. We verify that the system can perform under real-world conditions, whether it’s heavy loads or unexpected failures.” 

—Jessica Lewonick, Systems Engineer 

Building Toward the Future  

As I continue my journey at SealingTech, I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Each project presents a chance to dive deeper into complex system designs and tackle unique customer requests, further honing my technical expertise. One of my key goals is to expand my skill set by earning additional certifications like the CompTIA CYSA+ and the Offsec OSCP, which will strengthen my cybersecurity knowledge and open doors for me to transition into a Cybersecurity Analyst role in the future. 

In addition to advancing my technical skills, I’m committed to continuing my education at University of Maryland Global Campus. This ongoing learning will not only help me grow as a technician but also enable me to contribute more effectively to my team. SealingTech has provided an incredible platform for me to evolve as both a problem-solver and a professional, and I’m eager to apply these new skills in ways that exceed client expectations. 

As I work toward my goal of becoming a Cybersecurity Analyst, the combination of hands-on experience, advanced certifications, and SealingTech’s focus on quality will be key to my success. I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve, always aiming to deliver solutions that go beyond what our customers envision.

Learn more ways SealingTech’s quality products and solutions work to defend your system and network from cyberattacks. Contact our team.