As an IT Account Executive at Pearl Technology, Austin Crayton works with clients to provide the custom IT solutions clients need, which might include data centers, backup, colocation, cybersecurity, AI, and IT management.
How He Serves
Working from the Peoria Heights headquarters, Austin joined the team in February. Though he admits he’s still learning all aspects of the business, Austin is excited about his experience and what he can bring to the company and clients.
“My experience in managing property, communicating with people, consulting on ways to handle different scenarios, handling contracts, and working in IT serves me well at Pearl Technology,” Austin said. “I enjoy relating to people, so my outgoing personality also helps!”
Austin was encouraged to apply for his role due to friends’ recommendations. One of those connections, Pat Venditte, felt his social skills and IT background might make him a good fit for a role at Pearl Tech. Now, his typical day involves meeting with clients and prospects to determine the services that work best for their business.
“I spend whatever time is necessary to discuss their IT requirements,” Austin said. “Then I recommend the solutions their business needs and help them to get the best ones for their budget.”
What His Experience Means
Prior to joining Pearl Tech’s team, Austin worked as Senior IT Technician at Rivian in Bloomington, Illinois, for a few years on the IT/networking team. Austin is certified in CompTIA, which is fundamental to the industry. This program helps bridge the gap between education and working in technology.
A lifelong resident in the Peoria area, Austin has worked as a property manager for his family’s business since 2018, eventually acquiring his own real estate. He is proud of being a landlord and owning/managing multiple properties.
“I have an outgoing personality, and I really enjoy how our team collaborates—even the disagreements—to meet clients’ and prospects’ needs.” Austin added that he primarily works with doctors and IT managers in his current role.
Austin hopes to contribute to Pearl Tech’s growth by ensuring long-term client relationships and helping the team meet sales quotas and exceed expectations. “Pearl Tech has a great name in Illinois, and I believe the company will dominate in the Midwest. We can always grow more, and we can do that by establishing long-term relationships that are based on trust in the services and technology we provide.”
What Sustains Him
“What gets me fired up and going each day is knowing how we’re beneficial to our clients and prospects,” Austin said.
As far as philosophies go, Austin is inspired by many. He admires Winston Churchill’s “Success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”
“Just because you get a win doesn’t mean your day is over,” Austin said. “Just because you fail doesn’t mean your life is over. You’ve got to keep pushing whether you’re on the top or the bottom.”
Austin is also inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s quote: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” He believes that determining what we can do for others helps to build the relationships that lead to success.
“Part of that involves spending time with people. As I do, I can discover what they need and how I can help them. Then I can recommend the solutions they most need for their business.”
Austin also loves learning, which is a great asset in technology. “It’s always changing, there’s so much variety, and I’m eager to learn about the latest technologies and services we can offer our clients. I want to keep growing in my knowledge, learning about our clients and prospects, and matching what they need with the custom technology solutions that fit their budget and business.”
His love and pride for family are evident. Expressing gratitude, Austin shared, “I would not be where I am without my parents. They sacrificed time and money to get me here. I learned from them how to treat people with respect, think strategically, and always put God first. I am also very proud of my brother, Kendall, who is an engineer/project manager for a large construction company.”
When Austin is not working, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying healthy, and keeping fit. He loves playing soccer, basketball, and golf.
Does your business need help with IT solutions, cybersecurity, data centers, or audiovisual integration? Contact us to see what technology solutions might work best for you.
