My Professional Path
I did not enter Information Technology through one traditional route. I first
built experience maintaining complex equipment, following strict procedures,
documenting work, and troubleshooting problems under pressure. I later made
a deliberate career change into IT while returning to school and gaining
hands-on support experience through Geek Squad.
Gas Turbine Systems Technician
United States Navy
2017–2021
I joined the Navy as an undesignated engineering sailor before
choosing the rate (job) of Gas Turbine Systems Technician Machanical (GSM) and advancing to E-4.
I worked around complex mechanical and technical systems worth millions of dollars aboard two
ships in demanding engineering environments.
The work required system diagnostics, preventative maintenance,
accurate logs, technical documentation, and strict operational and
safety procedures. Engineering personnel also carried major emergency
response responsibilities, so staying calm, communicating clearly,
and completing work correctly were always important.
I took initiative in daily work and preventative maintenance while
helping coordinate tasks and report progress to leadership. I also
completed annual cybersecurity training and followed security
practices for system access and data protection.
Outside Machinist
Aerotek supporting Huntington Ingalls Industries
2021–2023
After leaving active duty military life, I continued working in a technical
industrial environment as an outside machinist. I maintained and
repaired complex mechanical systems while supporting large shipbuilding
projects in Newport News, Virginia.
The job required coordination with engineering teams and other trades.
We had to diagnose problems, complete work within project timelines,
document what was done, and follow strict technical and safety
procedures.
I also worked in a secure environment that required a U.S. Secret
Security Clearance. This experience strengthened my ability to work
responsibly around sensitive operations and high-value equipment.
Consultation Agent
Best Buy – Geek Squad
2023–Present
Moving into Geek Squad was a deliberate step toward the career I wanted
to build. The position gave me direct experience diagnosing hardware,
software, and network issues across customer devices while I continued
my education in Information Technology.
I provide system setup, Windows-based troubleshooting, and general
technical support in a fast-paced environment. The role has also helped
me become better at explaining technical problems in a way that makes
sense to people with different levels of experience.
I regularly balance multiple clients and tasks while helping support
team workflow. This experience has strengthened both my troubleshooting
process and my ability to communicate professionally.
Education and Career Transition
I earned my Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology from the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College.
The program gave me a strong foundation in networking, operating systems, programming, databases, and technical support
while preparing me to continue into the bachelor's program.
I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Cybersecurity at the University of Cincinnati.
As I continue my education, I am expanding my knowledge of networking, system administration, cybersecurity, cloud technologies, and other areas of modern IT.
My expected graduation is August 2028.
Combining my education with nearly three years of experience at Geek Squad has allowed me to apply what I learn in the classroom to real-world technical support.
Along with my engineering background in the Navy and defense contracting, these experiences have strengthened my troubleshooting,
communication, documentation, and problem-solving skills while preparing me for a career in Information Technology and Cybersecurity.
2017–2021
United States Navy
Gas Turbine Systems Technician
2021–2023
Defense Contracting
Outside Machinist
2023–Present
Geek Squad
Consultation Agent
Completed
Associate Degree
Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology
Expected August 2028
Bachelor's Degree
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Cybersecurity
Professional Project
Personal System Security Audit
I conducted a Windows system security audit using Belarc Advisor and
built-in Windows utilities to review system permissions, installed
applications, and configurations.
I identified potential security risks and applied basic mitigation
measures involving the firewall, antivirus protection, and system
hardening.
I then documented my findings and recommendations in a structured
security report.
Technical Skills
These are the technical skills currently listed on my resume.
Technical
Windows, Linux/Unix, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs,
Network Troubleshooting, System Diagnostics,
Hardware Troubleshooting, and Software Troubleshooting.
Security
Network Security Fundamentals, Access Control,
Security Compliance, Incident Response,
Malware Identification, and System Hardening.
Tools
Wireshark, Nmap, Packet Tracer, PuTTY,
Remote Desktop (RDP), Belarc Advisor,
and SQL Server Management Studio.
Programming
Java, SQL, HTML, and CSS.
What I Bring Forward
My background gives me experience on both sides of technical work. I understand
physical systems, maintenance, documentation, safety, and operations. I am now
adding IT support, networking, systems, programming, and cybersecurity knowledge
to that foundation.
My goal is to continue building a career in Information Technology and grow
further into cybersecurity. I am interested in opportunities where I can keep
learning, solve real technical problems, and contribute to a team.