Expert Spotlight: Jeff Gray on the Future of AI and IT Infrastructure

Jeff Gray joined the Tusker team in 2014 and has since become a cornerstone for our clients’ most challenging digital transformation, IT infrastructure, and artificial intelligence projects. With a passion for enhancing operational efficiencies, Jeff combines deep technical knowledge with creative problem-solving to drive organizational growth.

A Legacy of Technical Excellence

Jeff’s ability to manage complex IT environments is backed by a prestigious list of advanced certifications:

• Master ASE: Hybrid IT (Server, Storage, and FlexNetwork)
• Silver Peak: SDWAN (SPSP/SPSX)
• ASE: Synergy and ProLiant
• MCSE: Private Cloud

His role at Tusker ensures that clients achieve their goals through cutting-edge AI capabilities and modern, resilient IT infrastructures.

Q&A with Jeff Gray: Reshaping the Future of IT

From Atari to AI: A Unique Professional Journey

Q: Can you tell us about your professional background leading up to your current role at Tusker?

A: "I started my career in IT right after high school as a programmer and technician at Atari until the early 80s. After a detour in restaurant management, I returned to my true passion: technology. My path took me through telecommunications, running a consulting practice, and building an ISP before arriving at Tusker over a decade ago."

Pursuing Expertise in Artificial Intelligence

Q: Could you explain the journey that led you to pursue expertise in AI?

A: "I’ve been interested in neural networks since my teenage years. Professionally, my AI journey at Tusker began with an HPE-facilitated AI development class. This provided the foundational language and techniques needed to help a client source GPU servers for a specific machine learning use case. That success allowed me to transition into a lead role supporting IT departments and machine learning engineers in leveraging AI effectively."

How Tusker is Positioning for the AI Evolution

Q: How is the landscape of AI and IT evolving, and how is Tusker staying ahead?

A: "AI is transforming every industry. At Tusker, we are building a center of excellence focused on both current and emerging technologies. We aim to be a trusted advisor by offering customized AI solutions. By partnering with HPE and integrating top-tier technology, we provide the consultancy needed to navigate this changing landscape."

Real-World Success: AI in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Q: Can you share a success story where AI played a crucial role?

A: "One standout project involved deploying AI solutions for a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer. This project was recently featured at the HPE Discover conference. It demonstrated how AI drives massive efficiency gains and innovation in high-performance computing (HPC) environments."

Jeff’s Advice for Businesses Considering AI Integration

For organizations looking to start their AI journey, Jeff offers three key pieces of advice:

1. Identify Pain Points First: Don't implement AI for the sake of AI. Understand your specific operational goals and gaps first.
2. Strategy is Key: It is crucial to have a clear roadmap. Avoid "random acts of digital" by consulting with a center of excellence.
3. Start with Discovery: Assessments and discovery conversations are the essential starting points to ensure your implementation delivers value.

"The opportunities are endless. By upskilling employees and taking a proactive, consultative approach, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and drive meaningful innovation." — Jeff Gray

Partner with Tusker’s AI Experts

Ready to modernize your infrastructure or explore the potential of AI? Connect with Jeff Gray and the Tusker team today to begin your digital transformation assessment.