Cybersecurity Specialist · USAF Reserve SSgt

Charles Walker

// Protecting assets. Securing systems.

A passionate and highly skilled cybersecurity professional with over four years of experience protecting organizational assets across DoD, Air Force, Space Force, and Missile Defense Agency environments. Specialized in vulnerability management, RMF compliance, incident response, and security automation.

Colorado Springs, CO
Active TS/SCI Clearance
Charles Walker

Experience

Aug 2021 – Present Sonalysts Inc.

Cybersecurity Specialist

Supports cybersecurity operations across Air Force, Space Force, and Missile Defense Agency programs in classified environments. Manages system security and compliance in accordance with the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), ensuring authorization and accreditation of critical DoD systems.

Develops and deploys physical and digital security policies to maximize security posture across multiple classified sites. Leverages enterprise cybersecurity platforms and self-developed PowerShell scripts and Microsoft Power Platform solutions to automate compliance workflows and improve vulnerability remediation timelines.

RMF / NIST Vulnerability Management Nessus / Tenable Splunk PowerShell Power Platform Active Directory TS/SCI Clearance
May 2019 – Aug 2021 Colorado Springs Police Dept.

Community Service Officer

Completed 150+ police reports assisting sworn officers in investigating non-suspect informational calls. Responded to traffic and medical emergencies, providing support to on-scene emergency personnel. Cultivated community relationships by responding to calls for service and maintaining a visible presence within an assigned Area of Responsibility.

Oct 2018 – Feb 2019 GardaWorld Inc.

Armored Truck Driver

Safely transported cash, valuables, and other assets between banks, ATMs, businesses, and GardaWorld facilities. Followed designated routes and schedules to ensure timely, secure deliveries and pickups.

Feb 2017 – Dec 2017 G4S Secure Solutions

Armed Security Guard

Responded promptly to emergencies including medical, fire, and security incidents at a hospital facility, coordinating with hospital staff and local emergency services. Monitored and controlled entry and exit points, checking identification and managing visitor logs. De-escalated conflicts and disturbances involving patients, visitors, and staff using strong interpersonal communication skills.

Jul 2014 – Aug 2014 Frontier Airlines

IT Intern

Supported ongoing IT projects ranging from system upgrades and network enhancements to the imaging and deployment of 70+ new workstations. Collaborated with infrastructure, network, security, and application development teams to gain cross-functional experience.

Education

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Bachelor of Innovation in Computer Security — GPA: 3.32
Graduated May 2021
  • Studied computer science fundamentals including architecture, programming, and networking.
  • Programmed in Python, Java, C#, MIPS assembly, and C.
  • Led a team to develop and market a cybersecurity virtual reality training game for a local business.
  • Collaborated with Ent Credit Union to develop a targeted cybersecurity recruiting plan.

Skills

Security

  • Vulnerability Management
  • Risk Management Framework (RMF)
  • NIST 800-53 Compliance
  • STIG Implementation
  • Incident Response
  • Penetration Testing (CTF/HTB)

Tools & Platforms

  • Nessus / Tenable.sc
  • Splunk
  • Windows Server / Active Directory
  • RHEL / Linux
  • SharePoint
  • Microsoft Power Apps / Power Automate

Languages & Scripting

  • PowerShell
  • Python
  • C# / Java
  • Assembly (MIPS)
  • Bash / Linux Scripting

Certifications

Additional certifications in progress.

Interests

🔐

Cybersecurity

Regularly completing Capture the Flag challenges on Hack The Box and exploring new security tools and techniques.

🏔️

Snowboarding

Hitting the slopes at Breckenridge and Vail most winters. Always chasing fresh powder in the Colorado mountains.

🥾

Hiking & Golf

Exploring trails around Colorado Springs in spring and summer, occasionally squeezing in a round of golf on weekends.

🎙️

Podcasts & Audiobooks

Listening to cybersecurity, Formula 1, and foreign policy podcasts, plus sci-fi and military audiobooks.

🏋️

Fitness

Regular gym sessions with cardio through running and swimming to stay sharp and mission-ready.

🎮

Gaming & Media

Unwinding with video games, movies, and TV shows when not deep in a CTF rabbit hole.

Military Service

3P071 · Security Forces

Security Forces — Fireteam Leader

310th Security Forces Squadron · Schriever SFB · Jan 2016 – Nov 2022

Served as a Security Forces Member and Fireteam Leader in the U.S. Air Force, developing strong leadership, decision-making, and tactical skills in high-pressure environments. Responsible for overseeing and coordinating fireteam actions during security operations, enforcing security protocols, conducting threat assessments, and implementing defensive strategies to protect assets, personnel, and facilities.

  • Deployment to Kuwait — 2018
  • Completed Desert Warrior Training — 2018
  • Completed Jungle Warrior Training — 2021
1D774 · Data Engineering

Data Engineer

302nd Communications Flight · Peterson SFB · Nov 2022 – Present

Oversees organization, storage, and dissemination of vital information using platforms like SharePoint to ensure effective communication and operational efficiency. Manages records and information systems, ensures data is secure and accessible to authorized personnel, and trains personnel in information management best practices.

  • Exercise African Lion — 2024
  • Exercise Falcon Thunder — 2024
  • Exercise Overtorque — 2023