In 2006, Andy Potanin enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, immersing himself into the data and cyber operations realm. He earned the Warrior Award and a Meritorious Promotion after graduating from data school. Recognized by his peers and superiors for his character, leadership, and academic abilities, he served as a networking engineer in the 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion and was later promoted to Data Chief, where he oversaw data operations of critical importance. Concurrently, while enlisted, Potanin was deployed to Fallujah, Iraq, as a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and worked with Navy Seals on critical peace and stability missions. During this time, he also pursued a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology Management & Security at Campbell University, merging his practical military experience with theoretical knowledge.

Following an honorable discharge from the Marines in 2010, he transitioned into the civilian tech sector, joining Northrop Grumman as a defense contractor, where he gained substantial experience in logistics and supply chain management.

At Northrop Grumman, Potanin led the major project of developing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. This system included significant modules like Customer Relationship Management (CRM), helpdesk, and asset management. The project was a significant success and was adopted by the US Marine Corps Logistics Command.

In 2011, leveraging his military, academic, and professional experiences to create Usability Dynamics which evolved into UDX – a Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB). Initially focused on user interfaces and human interaction with business systems, UDX expanded into Ukraine in 2012. Over the following decade, the company achieved significant regional growth until the invasion of Ukraine by Russia brought an unfortunate halt to progression.

A significant milestone was their collaboration with Lockheed Martin on programs like SBIR and STTR. In 2018 UDX was contracted by Blackboard to lead cloud-native DevOps on Mobile Credential for Apple Pay. The project's success led Transact Campus to assign UDX all of its cloud automation duties.

As a seasoned veteran in cloud automation managing large-scale projects for over a decade at Transact Campus as Senior Manager of Cloud Automation. Recognizing the value of continuous learning Andy enrolled in an executive MBA program at UNC Kenan-Flagler gaining invaluable business strategy insights.

These insights have equipped Andy with a deeper understanding of business strategies which he now utilizes to steer UDX toward a sustainable future. Beyond managing UDX and Transact Campus Andy advocates for transitioning military veterans into the tech industry.

Andy's journey - from serving as a Marine to founding a thriving tech company - reflects his resilience and commitment to innovation. His mission continues as he strives to push boundaries within the tech industry.