ABOUT ME
Born and raised amidst the serene farmlands of Franklin, Tennessee, I am John Fly, a lifelong learner passionate about technology and hands-on creation. My fascination with computers began early, leading me to pursue professional programming opportunities from age 15. Over the past three decades, I have amassed a wealth of hands-on experience complemented by a robust academic foundation - a powerful combination that has shaped my multi-faceted expertise. I've earned a Bachelor's degree in Computers & Information Systems and an MBA with a concentration in Technology Management. Currently, I am nearing the completion of my Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Liberty University.
This immersive journey, bridging theoretical concepts with real-world application, has honed my professional prowess and enriched my Christian faith's integration with my career, strengthening my ethical framework and a sense of purpose. As I've grown older, my perspective has evolved. While the satisfaction of personal creation remains, I've come to recognize that true legacy lies in nurturing the next generation and building teams that can outperform any individual effort. Throughout my career, I have held leadership roles such as CTO, VP of Engineering, and Director of Product Architecture, focusing on developing technical leaders and high-performing teams that drive transformative initiatives and organizational growth.
I share this journey with my wife and our grown son, who is also married. As a family, we embrace a frugal lifestyle, minimizing emphasis on worldly possessions. Over the years, we have found joy in renovating homes, each project allowing us to explore different living experiences. We value quality and sustainability, often finding treasures in second-hand stores, Facebook Marketplace, or Goodwill, reflecting our commitment to thoughtful consumption.
Beyond my professional life, I am an avid DIY enthusiast. Whether restoring a 1971 Corvette, tackling home repairs in plumbing, HVAC, or electrical work, or engaging in crafts like metalwork, woodworking, bladesmithing, and blacksmithing, I find immense fulfillment in the hands-on creation and problem-solving these activities offer.
Through this blog, I look forward to sharing insights from my extensive career in technology, the lessons learned from my academic pursuits, and the joys of my hobbies and family life. Join me as we explore the convergence of technology, ethics, and hands-on creativity and discover the richness of the balance between professional pursuits, personal passions, and leaving a lasting legacy.
EDUCATION
Doctorate - (DSL) Doctor of Strategic Leadership
Liberty University
05-2023 - Current
Liberty University’s Doctor of Strategic Leadership or DSL degree is a practical doctorate focused on applying effective leadership skills to solve business problems. Unlike many PhD programs, a DSL degree is a professional doctorate focused on applying your experience to real-world problems in business leadership. If you want to retool with new skills and strategies to apply your experience in new and effective ways, then Liberty University’s leadership program will help you get the training you need.
MBA - Information Technology Management
Bottega University
01-2010 - 2017-01-01
The MBA in Information Technology Management develops management skills for effectively using technology in the enterprise within the global environment. Information technology is built on technical and managerial skills drawn from business management, information technology, finance, economics, and quantitative methods.
Since I was mid-career when I started the program, and family life was also taking considerable time, focus, and effort, I proceeded very slowly through the program. However, since I had over a decade of experience going into the program, I knew the potential value of the education and ensured I took my time to learn and apply my learning.
As I write this, I'm nearing the completion of my doctorate, and that program has gone very fast. My son has grown, and I have more time to dedicate to academic endeavors.
Bachelor - Computer Information Systems
Excelsior University
01-2006 - 2008-01-01
I finished my bachelor's degree at Excelsior University.
CAREER & EXPERIENCE
Chief Technology Officer
FirmPilot AI
12-2023 - Current
As the Chief Technology Officer at FirmPilot, I lead the strategic and operational technology efforts for our AI-powered marketing services. My role encompasses developing and implementing cutting-edge technologies and ensuring these solutions are secure, compliant, and optimized for performance.
Strategic Technology Leadership
I am responsible for guiding FirmPilot's technological direction to ensure we stay ahead in a competitive market. This involves continuous research and adopting emerging technologies and methodologies that can enhance our AI models and marketing tools and allow us to deliver superior client results.
Technology Development and Implementation
I oversee using advanced technology stacks within an AWS hosting environment, including Python, .NET, and Next.js. I focus on creating robust architectures that support scalable and secure applications, essential for running high-performance AI and marketing solutions.
AI Model Enhancement
Working closely with SEO experts, I spearhead the training and refinement of our AI models. Our goal is to leverage modern machine learning techniques to improve search engine rankings for our clients significantly, outperforming larger, more traditional marketing firms.
Leadership in High-Performance Team Management
I am committed to fostering a culture of excellence within our technology team. By implementing Kanban and continuous delivery practices, I enhance productivity and ensure our team members are supported and empowered to meet high expectations.
Information Security and Compliance
I oversee all aspects of information security and regulatory compliance at FirmPilot. Establishing secure and performant business practices that protect our company and clients and comply with all relevant laws and regulations is crucial.
Engagement with Stakeholders
As a technology leader, I regularly engage with customers, stakeholders, and external partners to communicate the value of our technology innovations. I strive to translate complex technical details into actionable insights, demonstrating our competitive edge.
Quality Assurance and Performance Metrics
I am dedicated to maintaining the highest quality standards and continuously measuring our technological impact through crucial performance metrics. This focus ensures that we meet and exceed our client's expectations and remain leaders in our industry.
Ambassador, Gartner Peer Community
Gartner
07-2023 - Current
The community selects Gartner Peer Insights Ambassadors as the experts on selected topics. Ambassadors are sent a curated list of questions on topics for which they are experts. Their answers are featured before the world's largest community of technology executives.