About me

My name is Nelson Lopes. I was born and raised in Porto, Portugal, where I still live and work as an IT Director. I’m a Computer Engineer by training, passionate about technology since a very young age – curious, experimental, and endlessly fascinated by how things work.

My story with computers started long before I ever imagined working in IT.

I still remember using Windows 3.1, playing the original Prince of Persia, and being amazed by the launch of Windows 95. I learned to program in QBasic, witnessed the first steps of Google, and spent countless hours playing Elifoot and GTA, swapping floppy disks one by one as the computer asked for the next. Back then, connecting to the Internet meant listening to that unmistakable modem handshake sound – the digital heartbeat of an era that sparked my lifelong interest in technology.

My first formal steps came through Microcamp, a well-known computer school at the time, where I took courses in Introduction to Computing, Graphic Design, and Programming.

The Graphic Design course opened an unexpected door: a 10-year career in the textile industry, where I specialized in transfer production – both thermoplastic and sublimated, screen printed and digital – for the apparel sector.

In that role, I prepared photoliths for serial printing and worked in the dark red room, where no UV light could enter. I emulsified silk screens, exposed them under light, and revealed them with water – a mix of chemistry, precision, and patience that shaped my attention to detail and process discipline.

At the same time, between 2002 and 2008, I volunteered at #PTHelp, the official help channel of PTNet, Portugal’s largest IRC network, with the nickname dr_kyle. I started as a Wannabe (+), became a Helper (@), later a Trainer, and finally Co-Admin.

Those years were incredible: I learned endlessly about computers, shared knowledge, helped others, and made genuine friendships – some of which turned into real-life connections. It was my first experience in a truly digital community, and it taught me the value of collaboration and mentorship long before social media existed.

While working full-time in the textile industry, I studied Computer Engineering at night – a challenging but rewarding phase that ultimately set me on a new path.

In 2016, I transitioned fully into the IT field, where I have since focused on technology management, cybersecurity, ITSM, project management, and strategy. Over the years, my work has spanned networks, systems, Microsoft 365, cloud, software engineering, ERP, RPA, and VoIP, blending deep technical experience with leadership and operational vision.

Today, as an IT Director, I see technology as both a strategic enabler and a human discipline – one that requires efficiency, security, and empathy in equal measure. I hold multiple certifications, including CISSP, ITIL, PMP, C|EH, and MCSA, and I’m a member of professional organizations such as the Portuguese Order of Engineers, PMI, PMI Portugal Chapter, ISC2, and EC-Council.

This website is where I share what I’ve learned – from cybersecurity controls to IT leadership, AI tools, and the evolving landscape of modern technology. Whether you’re an IT professional, business leader, or simply curious about how tech shapes our world, I hope you find something here that informs, inspires, or sparks new ideas.

Outside of work, I stay active – sports have been part of my life since childhood. I practiced Taekwondo for several years (earning the Poom belt, the junior black belt), later played futsal, and now enjoy running, having completed a half marathon and aiming for a full one.

When I’m not in front of a screen, you’ll probably find me reading, spending time with family and friends, or walking by the sea – the place where I reset, reflect, and recharge.

So that’s my story – from floppy disks and dial-up modems to clouds and cybersecurity.

Welcome to my corner of the web.

Just think of it as “Nelson Lopes on the net” – nelsonlopes.net