A Journey of Innovation, Dedication, and Growth
Welcome to the first chapter of DAFTitude's story—a tale that begins with me, Kyhl Hines, a passionate technologist, a lifelong learner, and the proud CEO of DAFTitude. My journey is one of evolution, shaped by over a decade of IT experience, a dedication to mastering emerging technologies, and a steadfast commitment to helping others navigate the complex world of data, analytics, and technology.
I began my professional career with the United States Army, where I honed my skills as a Local Area Network Manager, Systems Administrator, and IT Analyst. These roles introduced me to the intricate world of military IT systems, including managing NIPR and SIPR networks, troubleshooting high-stakes technical issues, and supporting mission-critical operations. Along the way, I became a certified paratrooper, which not only taught me discipline and resilience but also showed me the value of teamwork and trust—qualities that continue to shape my leadership style today.
The transition from military IT to civilian tech roles was a pivotal moment in my career. As a Network Administrator and later a Senior Desktop Support Analyst at Jacobs, I embraced new challenges, such as configuring LAN/WAN devices, deploying servers, and managing large-scale IT networks.
My hands-on expertise spans everything from virtualized environments like VMware to backend database management systems such as Oracle, MySQL, and PostGres. This period was a defining chapter in my story, as it allowed me to merge my military discipline with the demands of corporate IT environments, building a unique skill set that sets me apart.
While my professional life has been rewarding, my journey has always been underpinned by a love for learning and innovation. Currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering from Western Governors University, I’m continually expanding my knowledge base and keeping up with the latest advancements in technology.
My certifications—ranging from the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) to the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)—reflect my commitment to staying at the cutting edge of the industry. These achievements have equipped me to tackle challenges head-on, combining technical knowledge with problem-solving finesse.
At DAFTitude, I’ve taken everything I’ve learned—my military discipline, my corporate IT expertise, and my creative instincts—and channeled it into a mission: to simplify technology, empower users, and deliver solutions that matter.
DAFTitude isn’t just a business; it’s a philosophy of being Daring, Analytical, Forward-thinking, and Tenacious in everything we do. Whether it’s helping a client optimize their network, troubleshoot devices, or design data-driven solutions, DAFTitude is about making technology accessible and impactful.
When I’m not immersed in work, you can find me exploring new ideas, spending time with family and friends, or lending a hand in my community. Whether it’s assembling furniture, setting up a smart home device, or mentoring a budding technologist, I take pride in being a resource for those around me.
It’s this blend of technical acumen and personal connection that fuels my vision for DAFTitude. This is just the beginning of the DAFTitude story, and I’m excited to see where it takes us.