James Jakubowski: Sr. Systems Engineer
At Fairdinkum, we’re fortunate to work with people who bring curiosity, resilience and a genuine love of problem-solving to everything they do. James Jakubowski, Sr. Systems Engineer, is a great example of that mindset—someone who approaches technology with intention, keeps learning long after the workday ends and believes strongly in focusing on what you can control.
Turning Curiosity into a Career
James’s path into technology wasn’t a straight line, but every step along the way added something valuable. His earliest jobs ranged from painting rusty propane tanks as a teenager to working in grocery stores across multiple departments. Those experiences taught him discipline, adaptability and how to work with people from all walks of life.
While studying film at Michigan State University, James discovered a growing interest in computers and how systems work behind the scenes. Moving to NYC for work at a commercial video editing house, he found the perfect balance between structured problem-solving and constant learning. After several years in the field, James decided to pursue a more direct IT career path—one that would let him continue building technical depth while helping others work more effectively.
Where Technical Rigor Meets Client Support
As a Systems Engineer, James supports a wide range of client environments, helping ensure systems remain secure and reliable. He enjoys the technical challenge of troubleshooting and improving systems but equally values the service side of the work.
When asked what he enjoys most about the role, James points to problem-solving and continuous improvement. Technology never stands still, and neither does he. Whether it’s digging into new tools, refining existing processes or helping clients navigate complex challenges, he brings a thoughtful, steady approach to his work.
Training the Body, Challenging the Mind
Outside of work, James is deeply committed to fitness, personal growth and making the most of his time. In recent years, he trained for and completed two marathons, dedicating countless hours to running and preparation. After checking that milestone off his list, he shifted his focus toward strength training and overall health—always setting new goals and pushing himself in thoughtful ways.
When he’s not training, James enjoys gardening and watching long-form content to learn something new or hone a skill. While many people bounce between streaming services, his go-to is YouTube, where he has the ability to explore everything from home improvement to science, fitness and inspiration in one place. He also enjoys tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, which combine collaboration and storytelling.
Originally from Michigan, James spent 12 years in NYC and now finds himself in Pittsburgh, where he recently reached a major personal milestone: purchasing his first home. After years of moving and renting, settling into a place of his own—with a yard and a strong sense of community—has been especially meaningful.
Looking ahead, James keeps a growing bucket list that includes travel, endurance events like triathlons or ultramarathons, and tackling long-term financial goals. He’s always focused on what’s next.
A Mindset Built for What’s Next
James approaches both work and life with a clear philosophy: focus on what you can control and don’t lose energy on the rest. That mindset fuels his motivation, pushing him to keep learning, improving and setting new goals. From engineering reliable systems to training his body and mind, he’s driven by the idea that growth is ongoing. There’s always something new to strengthen or explore—and that forward focus is what makes him such a strong part of the Fairdinkum team.