I'm thrilled to share our latest member spotlight! This series is dedicated to showcasing stand-out individuals within the Okta Community. Today, we delve into Aleksey Shchukin's journey with Okta, exploring how he discovered the Okta Community, the invaluable insights he's gained, and his top tips and tricks for leveraging Okta's products and solutions.

Can you share a bit about yourself? Your role, company,  how long you’ve been there, and what your typical day looks like? 

I work at General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) in the information technology department within the healthcare division. My main responsibility is integrating cloud-based services such as Okta, Zscaler, and Zoom for our federal government contract with the HHS agency. Day-to-day, I handle tasks like user provisioning, multi-factor authentication management, and troubleshooting. Okta plays a central role in providing single sign-on across our various cloud applications, which adds excitement to my work as the IT landscape continually evolves.

What's your journey with Okta like?

For the past six to seven years, we've heavily relied on Okta’s suite of tools, particularly the Workforce Identity Cloud. Its seamless integration with our primary business application, G Suite, has made it a dependable solution for us. We've appreciated the flexibility and ongoing expansion of the Okta Application Network. While initially facing challenges with integrating new services, we found helpful support through Okta's Support and Community resources.

Speaking of the Okta Community, how long have you been a member, and how do you use it? 

 I've been part of the Okta Community since day one. It's a great place for finding solutions to common issues, exploring new use cases, and troubleshooting in real time. While I do utilize the Okta Support team, engaging with like-minded users in the Community not only brings fresh perspectives but also fosters valuable networking opportunities. Furthermore, it serves as a helpful channel for posting questions and seeking advice from peers encountering similar challenges.

 Have you encountered any memorable interactions or stories in the Okta Community? 

While I can’t recall specific stories, I've had numerous beneficial interactions with fellow community members that have helped me tackle challenges in my role. Regular participation in discussions relevant to my responsibilities, particularly in the Admin Community Discussion Group, has provided me invaluable insights and advice. The collaborative nature of the community has essentially extended my team, allowing me to tap into a wealth of expertise and knowledge.

Can you share some key learnings or insights you've gained from your interactions in the Okta Community?

Actively engaging with the Okta Community has provided me with valuable tips and best practices for optimizing our Okta deployments, ultimately leading to smoother integrations and better user experiences for our GDTI workforce.   

Any advice you'd give to fellow IT admins utilizing Okta's solutions, especially those just starting out?

 I've found that staying updated on Okta’s latest features and developments through the Okta Community is crucial for staying sharp in the ever-evolving security landscape. For instance, I recently learned about Okta's implementation of tighter security measures for admin sessions, such as enforcing MFA and secure admin sessions. As an IT admin advancing in my career, it's vital to continually expand my knowledge and adapt to these evolving security standards. The Okta Community equips me with the insights I need to enhance my technical skills, improve my proficiency in security practices, and progress as a leader. It's been an invaluable resource in my professional growth. 

On the note of growing your proficiency and becoming an Okta expert, do you hold any Okta certifications? 

While I haven’t obtained any Okta certifications yet, I recognize the value they hold, especially with the support provided by programs like the Okta Community Catalysts program, which offers opportunities for complimentary training and certification. I have plans to pursue these certifications in the coming months.

Anything outside of work you enjoy?

 Oh, I'm into DIY home improvement. Queens offers a good mix of urban and residential vibes, so there's always something to tinker with around the house.

Thank you, Aleksey, for sharing your professional and personal journey with us. Our entire community truly appreciates your contributions, ongoing support, and evident passion for Okta. 

If you’d like to share your story, get in touch with Community@okta.com. 

Visit the Okta Community today!