Personal Website

Rene Kärkkäinen

Welcome to my digital abode! I'm a tech enthusiast and student navigating the landscape of information technology with a security-first mindset. Here, you can explore some of my projects and experiences. Settle in!

About me

Experienced in server network construction, network security and little in IT management. Developed skills in IT infrastructure, cyber security and software development over the past 5 years. Native Finnish speaker and proficient in English, with a strong interest for technology and a commitment to growth and survival in the ICT field.


Contact me via your preferred method:

Work Experience

Managing Director
Rene Investments Ab, Vantaa, Finland
Dec 2024 - Present | Hobby

Managing investments, accounting, and ensuring a slow and steady growth of investments.

IT Manager
Nordiska Partners Limited, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong SAR
Jun - Jul 2024 | Internship

I was responsible for overseeing IT operations and creating new security measures to strengthen the company's security posture. I optimized the budget and managed vendor relations.

Information Technology Trainee
WithSecure Oyj, Helsinki, Finland
Oct - Dec 2023 | Internship

Maintained computer systems and hardware, analyzed customer data to ensure accuracy and integrity, troubleshooted internal IT issues, and wrote documentation for hardware installation procedures.

Nursing Home Assistant
City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
Jun - Jul 2022 | Summer Job

Brightened residents' days with walks, reading time, and fun outings like disco nights, bingo games, and trips to parks.

Store Assistant
K-Market Rekola, Vantaa, Finland
Dec 2021 | Internship

Contribute to efficient store operations by assisting with sales, shipment logistics, providing customer service, and ensuring the store maintains a clean and organized environment.

Education

Bachelor of Engineering, Information and Communication Technology
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
Jan 2025 - Present

High School
Töölön Yhteiskoulun aikuislukio
Aug 2022 - Present

Vocational qualification in ICT specialized in Cyber Security
Business College Helsinki
Aug 2022 - Dec 2024

Random Stuff

Taitaja Competition Participant | ICT Specialist
Skills Finland ry
Jan 2025
What is Taitaja?

Junction 2024 Participant | Kone x Granlund Challenge
Junction Oy
Nov 2024
What is Junction 2024?

Slush 2024 Volunteer | Sustainability Team
Slush Oy
Nov 2024
What is Slush?

LähiTapiola Hack Day 2024 | Hacker
LähiTapiola Palvelut Oy
Oct 2024
What is LähiTapiola Hack Day?

Technical Skills

Diving into the Tech Wonderland, I transform ideas into IT magic!

Network Administration

Configuring and maintaining secure and efficient network infrastructures.

Cyber Security

Implementing robust security measures to protect against cyber threats.

Server Environments

Managing server environments, using software like ESXi, Proxmox, Puppet and Jenkins.

Linux Systems

In-depth knowledge of Linux systems, including system hardening and proficient troubleshooting skills.

Virtualization Technologies

Skilled in using virtualization platforms like VMware ESXi, Hyper-V, Proxmox and XCP-ng for efficient resource utilization.

IT Infrastructure

Designing and maintaining reliable and scalable IT infrastructures.

Scripting and Automation

Adept at scripting languages to automate repetitive tasks and enhance workflow efficiency.

Team Collaboration

Proven ability to collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams for project success.

Troubleshooting

Effective problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail for identifying and resolving issues.

Experimenting with Technology

Server Lab
Where Ideas Take Flight

Gained valuable insights into networking, virtualization, server management, and hardware configurations. The art of running servers, understanding how networks work, and the importance of adaptability in the tech landscape were among the many discoveries.

Experimented with a variety of software tools including Jenkins, Puppet, Git, pfSense, Suricata, OpenVPN, unbound, Nextcloud, NGINX and Apache.

FPS Multiplayer made with Unreal Engine 4
Inspired by Counter-Strike Series

In 2021, I developed 'Beryllium,' an online multiplayer tactical first-person shooter using Unreal Engine 4. The game features competitive gameplay where two teams, Attackers and Defenders, engage in strategic encounters. Attackers aim to achieve specific objectives while Defenders employ various tactics to protect key positions and thwart their opponents.

Haven't looked at the source code since 2022 nor have I any game servers running anymore but if you would like to test the game locally send me an E-Mail and I will send you a Steam redeem code ;)

Software Development

In programming, comfort is key. I navigate through languages like Python, JavaScript, C++, C# and beyond with ease, using them as tools to bring ideas to life. From exploring frameworks and libraries to tackling real-world problems.

My projects range from software to IoT hardware. I've developed tools such as a search engine for my vinyl record collection and a concept for a peer-to-peer digital banking system. On the hardware side, I've transformed an old Japanese flip-clock to run on USB power using Arduino, which also controls my room's audio system (and will eventually function as an alarm clock).

Let's work together

Seeking opportunities in IT infrastructure from all over the world!