Professional
Story

My Journey into IT and Cybersecurity

My path into the world of IT and cybersecurity has been driven by a passion for technology, problem-solving, and a deep-seated commitment to protecting digital landscapes. With a background in Operations Management and Information Systems from Northern Illinois University, I developed a strong foundation in business technology, which laid the groundwork for my transition into the cybersecurity domain.

As I pursued my Master’s degree in Cybersecurity at Metropolitan State University of Denver, I immersed myself in the complexities of cybersecurity frameworks, risk management, and incident response. This academic journey equipped me with the technical expertise and strategic mindset needed to navigate the complexities and vastness of the threat landscape.

My professional experience has been diverse and hands-on, spanning IT support, security operations, and consulting. At Intermountain Health, I provided critical technical support, troubleshooting hardware, software, and network issues while ensuring seamless IT operations. As a volunteer Cybersecurity Consultant for Denver Gonstead, I conducted security risk assessments, developed security policies, and provided cybersecurity awareness training. Additionally, my time as a Tier 1 SOC Analyst with Project PISCES allowed me to monitor security controls, respond to incidents, and collaborate with teams to enhance detection and response capabilities.

Beyond my professional roles, I have been deeply involved in community-driven cybersecurity initiatives. Founding CyberBridge, a student-led organization at MSU Denver, allowed me to create a platform for students to bridge the gap between classroom and career in the cybersecurity industry. Organizing events such as the Campus Catalyst Hackathon and achieving a top 1% ranking on TryHackMe further solidified my hands-on expertise and commitment to the technology field. I continued to develop my knowledge in Digital Forensics and Incident Response by hosting tabletop scenario exercises for students as an extracurricular activity, the IT team at MSU Denver, and students enrolled in classes. I also collaborated with professors to develop engaging and robust quizzes, assignments, and projects for the students in both undergrad and graduate level classes at MSU Denver in the CIS, CS, and Cybersecurity degree paths.

With certifications such as CompTIA Security+, ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC), and AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CCP), I continuously expand my knowledge to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry. My mission is to empower organizations with the knowledge and tools needed to strengthen their security posture, mitigate risks, and respond effectively to cyber threats.

My journey in IT and cybersecurity is one of continuous learning, adaptability, and dedication to making the digital world a safer place. Whether through hands-on technical support, incident response, or cybersecurity education, I am committed to driving positive change in the industry and contributing to a resilient cybersecurity landscape.

~ Formal Education ~

MS Cybersecurity - Metropolitan State University of Denver

BS Operations Management & Information Systems - Northern Illinois University

~Industry Certifications ~

CompTIA SECurity+
ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner