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I’m a recent graduate in Engineering Technology with a specialization in Cybersecurity, currently advancing my skills through a Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity & Information Assurance. My academic projects gave me hands-on experience in vulnerability testing, network security, and building secure cloud environments using AWS and Kali Linux.

I enjoy solving technical challenges and applying a detail-oriented approach to risk assessment, system testing, and security documentation. I’ve also developed strong teamwork and communication skills through collaborative projects and professional roles, which I bring into every environment.

I’m passionate about technology, continuous learning, and protecting systems from evolving threats. My goal is to grow as a cybersecurity professional while contributing to organizations that value innovation, collaboration, and security.

 

Vision Statement
To contribute meaningfully to the growth and security of a forward-thinking organization by leveraging technical expertise and leadership skills. I aim to drive operational stability, deliver measurable results, and implement cutting-edge solutions while fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented culture.

Education

           Education

Keller Graduate School of Management | Naperville, IL 

Graduate Certificate  in Cybersecurity & Info Assurance:

                                                                      

  Expected Oct 2025

DeVry University | Naperville, IL

                     Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology (Electronics Specialization)                                                                                                                   

2022-2024

DeVry University | Naperville, IL

                 Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology & Networking                                  

2020-2022

Core Compentencies

Core Compentencies

Cybersecurity Best Practices | Network Security | Cloud Computing (AWS, Azure)
Risk Assessment | Vulnerability Management | Project Management | Technical Documentation
Security Audits | Compliance (NIST, CIS, GRC) | Virtualization | Process Automation
Communication | Analytical Thinking | IT Infrastructure Support

PROJECTS
TECHNICAL SKILLS

                                                              TECHNICAL SKILLS

Operating Systems: Windows, Linux, macOS
Security Tools: Wireshark, Malwarebytes, MFA/RDP, Vulnerability Scanning Tools
Cloud Platforms: AWS, Microsoft Azure
Software & Applications: Microsoft Office Suite, Visio, Multisim, Tinkercad, CAD, Microsoft Access,  Salesforce
Programming & Scripting: Python, MATLAB, SQLite
Other Tools: QuickBooks, Tableau, Power BI, SQL

IT Governance                                                                                                                                               09/2025 - 10/2025       

DeVry University | Naperville, IL

  • Increased my knowledge of how IT Governance aligns technology initiatives with organizational goals.

  • Gained insight into establishing accountability and effective decision-making structures.

  • Improved my understanding of how governance integrates risk management and regulatory compliance.

  • Strengthened my skills in policy enforcement for secure data lifecycle management in BYOD environments.

  • Expanded my understanding of the value of KPIs and audits for continuous improvement and oversight

Projects
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Project

E-Business Security Google Cloud Infrastructure Contingency Plan                                                                                  7/2025 – 8/2025

DeVry University | Naperville, IL

  • Implemented a multi-layered defense strategy for Google Cloud using Cloud Armor, WAFs, IAM, and monitoring tools

  • Applied the Zero Trust principles and least-privilege access controls to strengthen security posture across cloud infrastructure

  • Conducted cost-benefit analysis and KPI evaluations to demonstrate ROI and validate operational resilience.

  • Developed contingency and recovery plans, ensuring rapid response and business continuity during cyberattacks

  • Cloud security solutions with NIST and CIS frameworks to maintain compliance and industry best practices

Network Concepts Implementation Plan                                                                                                                          7/2025 – 8/2025

DeVry University | Naperville, IL

  • Designed layered defenses with CrowdStrike Falcon, Cisco TrustSec, and AI-based IDS & SOAR.

  • Applied threat modeling and security assessments to identify healthcare vulnerabilities.

  • Aligned cybersecurity solutions with HIPAA and NIST compliance requirements.

  • Evaluated security controls through cost-benefit analysis and pilot testing.

  • Produced professional reports with flow diagrams, KPI metrics, and clear recommendations

Network Concepts Case Study Reflection                                                                                                                         5/2025 – 6/2025

DeVry University | Naperville, IL

  • Network troubleshooting with CLI tools (Ping, Tracert, Ipconfig, Netstat, Nslookup)

  • Wireless network optimization using machine learning

  • VLAN and subnet implementation for network segmentation

  • AAA security deployment and access control

  • AI-based intrusion detection and attack classification

Cybersecurity Planning and Incident Response Case Study Reflection                                                                               5/2025 – 06/2025

DeVry University | Naperville, IL

  • Network troubleshooting and optimization using CLI tools and machine learning

  • VLAN and subnet implementation for secure network segmentation

  • AAA security deployment for identity and access management

  • AI-based threat detection for IoT environments

  • Digital forensics and forensic readiness planning

  • Risk analysis, legal compliance, and incident response strategy

  • Ethical and strategic communication with stakeholders

Fundamentals of Infrastructure and Security                                                                                                              04/ 2024 – 05/ 2024

DeVry University | Naperville, IL 

  • Deployed and managed virtual machines using Amazon Web Services (AWS), integrating core services such as compute (EC2), storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and security.

  • Configured and launched EC2 instances, verifying successful deployment and network connectivity through command-line ping tests.

  • Oversaw full instance lifecycle management, including provisioning, connecting, monitoring, and termination of instances.

  • Designed and implemented secure cloud architecture by configuring subnets, managing security groups, and applying best practices for virtual machine access control.

Cybersecurity Capstone Project – Fundamentals of Information System Security                                                                 11/2021 – 12/2021

DeVry University | Naperville, IL  

  • Built and secured a mock enterprise network using Kali and Ubuntu VMs.

  • Performed encryption, traffic analysis (Wireshark, Netcat), and vulnerability testing.

  • Implemented a stateful firewall, BYOD policy, and multifactor authentication.

Fundamentals Of Cloud Computing                                                                                                                               08/2021 –09/2021

DeVry University | Naperville, IL       

  • Deployed and managed virtual machines on Amazon Web Services (AWS), utilizing core services including compute, storage, networking, and security.

  • Configured and launched EC2 instances, ensuring successful deployment and network connectivity through command-line diagnostics.

  • Performed full instance lifecycle management: provisioning, connecting, monitoring, and decommissioning resources.

  • Designed secure cloud architectures by configuring subnets, managing security groups, and implementing best practices for access control.

Fundamentals of Information Technology & Networking                                                                                                 07/2021 – 08/2021

DeVry University | Naperville, IL 

  • Built virtual machines with integrated routers and firewalls to create secure, efficient networks.

  • Designed and documented network topologies using Visio, illustrating virtual machines, routers, switches, and key components.

  • Applied core networking concepts, including cabling, WANs, troubleshooting, IPv4, IP subnetting, VLANs, and network security.

Projects (Cont)

Introduction Into the Linux Operating System                                                                                                                10/2020 – 11/2020

DeVry University | Naperville, IL 

  • Installed and configured Linux, including creating, navigating, copying, and deleting files and directories.

  • Developed shell scripts, managed file permissions, and set PATH variables. Administered users and groups via CLI and GUI.

  • Connected Ubuntu VMs to networks, configured interfaces, and utilized network utilities.

  • Monitored system processes, user activities, and bandwidth usage to maintain performance and security.

Introduction Into Python Programming                                                                                                                          10/2020-11/2020

DeVry University | Naperville, IL  

  • Received and processed NOAA data using Python, Spyder, and SQLite for data analysis.

  • Designed and documented program workflows with Visio flowcharts.

  • Performed data cleansing to remove missing or erroneous entries.

  • Converted datasets to CSV format for further analysis.

  • Created temperature and humidity charts in Excel to visualize trends.

  • Analyzed and manipulated data to demonstrate practical programming applications.

Western Rim Constructors Inc. | Escondido, CA                                                                                                                     2/2022 – 1/2023

Office Administration

  • Designed comprehensive pre-qualification packets tailored to prevailing wage project requirements, enhancing the company’s competitiveness in securing new contracts.

  • Generated and processed invoices using company-specific accounting software, ensuring accuracy by verifying alignment with original landscaping and irrigation quotes.

  • Procured and coordinated the timely delivery of all landscaping materials, meticulously tracking each phase to keep projects on schedule.

  • Developed and implemented standardized operating procedures (SOPs) to improve productivity, streamline workflows, and enhance overall efficiency.

  • Reorganized and optimized the filing system to improve profitability and accountability, ensuring accurate invoice tracking and proper pricing documentation.

Health Dimensions | Carlsbad, CA                                                                                                                                          2/2015 - 1/2016

Office Manager

  • Established secure RDP access with MFA for a remote workforce, improving cybersecurity posture.

  • Developed PO tracking integrated with accounting software, recovering $600K+ in aged receivables.

  • Automated HR and finance operations with digital workflows, enhancing data integrity and auditability.

  • Applied cybersecurity-relevant data analysis techniques to identify anomalies in vendor transactions.

Son Energy, Inc. | Escondido, CA                                                                                                                                          2/2010 - 2/2015

Director of Operations /Office Manager

  • Directed office and field operations, optimizing accounting, IT systems, and back-office workflows.

  • Developed data-driven debt relief strategies, improving recovery rates and reducing delinquencies.

  • Led process optimization using Lean and Six Sigma, boosting profitability and cutting overhead.

  • Negotiated vendor contracts focused on cost control, compliance, and SLA performance

  • Automated P&L, ROI, and budget reports using SQL, Excel macros, and Power BI to improve forecasting.

  • Analyzed financial data with Tableau and Excel to reallocate resources, increasing efficiency by 30%.

  • Managed IT infrastructure, including VoIP systems, Windows Servers, backups, and patching.

  • Enforced NIST/CIS-aligned security protocols and created SOPs to strengthen physical and cyber security.

  • Streamlined workflows with business process modeling, increasing productivity, and reducing redundancies.

  • Digitized document management systems to improve data access, compliance, and accountability.

Certificates

Certificates

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Honors and Awards

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CONTACT ME

Thanks for submitting!

Polly Grissom

Phone:

760-975-6517

 

Email:

pollygrissom4@gmail.com

© 2020 By Polly Grissom. Proudly created with Wix.com

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