Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
Projects
Education/Certifications
References
Timeline
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Blake Blackwelder

Indian Trail,NC

Summary

Highly motivated and detail-oriented professional pursuing a career in cybersecurity, with a strong foundation in risk management, incident response, and security best practices gained through military service and targeted training—my experience in the U.S. The Navy has equipped me with a disciplined, mission-focused mindset, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain effective under pressure, supported by an active Secret Security Clearance. Additionally, my background in the food and beverage industry has developed my communication, teamwork, and customer service skills, along with a high level of adaptability and professionalism in fast-paced environments. I am eager to bring this combination of technical knowledge and interpersonal strength to a cybersecurity team committed to protecting digital infrastructure from emerging threats.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

Bartender Supervisor

The Club at Longview
Waxhaw, NC
08.2024 - Current
  • Supervised a team of bartenders and staff, ensuring efficient service and adherence to health standards.
  • Created and crafted innovative cocktail recipes that increased drink sales by 35%.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and network issues to maintain system functionality and minimize downtime across multiple workstations.
  • Conducted risk assessments and vulnerability testing on bar management software.

Bar Manager

Portrait Gallery Restaurant and Bar
Matthews, NC
02.2023 - 08.2024
  • Managed and trained a team of bartenders and servers on cocktail preparation and customer service.
  • Implemented inventory management systems that reduced waste and improved cost efficiency by 15%.
  • Developed and enforced strict compliance with alcohol laws and regulations, ensuring a safe environment for patrons.

Bartender/Security

Lucky Dog Bark n Brew
Charlotte, NC
12.2022 - 01.2023
  • Conducted ID checks and enforced age restrictions to maintain compliance with local laws.
  • Trained new employees on bartending techniques and bar safety protocols.
  • Incorporated security measures to ensure a safe environment for patrons and staff.

Bartender/Barback/Server/Security

Pins Mechanical
Charlotte, NC
09.2021 - 09.2022
  • Conducted ID checks and monitored guest behavior to ensure a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.
  • Trained new staff members on service protocols and bar operations to enhance team efficiency.
  • Monitored customer behavior to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment, intervening in potential conflicts as needed.

Sales and Operations Coordinator

Herc Rentals
Charlotte, NC
10.2018 - 12.2021
  • Coordinated sales and operations activities to enhance efficiency and productivity.
  • Analyzed sales data to generate reports and provide insights for decision-making.
  • Oversaw inventory management and ensured accurate stock levels to meet operational demands.

Petty Officer 3rd

United States Navy
San Diego, CA
01.2013 - 01.2017
  • Conducted comprehensive risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and threats, developed and implemented proactive measures to mitigate risks, and enhanced the security posture.
  • Responded swiftly to security incidents and emergencies, coordinating with team members and external agencies to contain threats, minimize damage, and restore normal operations.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in operating and maintaining security equipment and technology, including surveillance, intrusion detection, and encryption tools.
  • Held a Secret Security Clearance, highlighting the ability to handle sensitive information with utmost confidentiality.

Skills

  • Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
  • Linux
  • Python Programming Language
  • SQL
  • Security Audit
  • Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)
  • Risk Assessment
  • NIST Cybersecurity Frameworks (CSF)
  • Network Security
  • Risk Analysis and Evaluation
  • Compliance and Regulation Adherence (NERC CIP, SOX, HIPAA)
  • Incident response

Projects

  • Home Network Enhancement, Cisco Packet Tracer, Routers, Switches, Firewalls, Access Points, VLANs
  • Hack the Box, VM labs & tools for cybersecurity challenges that simulate real-world hacking scenarios to help users build and test their ethical hacking skills in a legal, virtual environment.

Education/Certifications

  • CompTIA Security+ Certification, 10/01/24, 10/01/27, Charlotte, NC
  • Google Cloud Cybersecurity Certificate, 08/01/24, Charlotte, NC
  • Google Cybersecurity Certificate, 03/01/23, Charlotte, NC
  • CPCC (Broadcasting and Production), 08/01/22, In Progress, Charlotte, NC

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Bartender Supervisor

The Club at Longview
08.2024 - Current

Bar Manager

Portrait Gallery Restaurant and Bar
02.2023 - 08.2024

Bartender/Security

Lucky Dog Bark n Brew
12.2022 - 01.2023

Bartender/Barback/Server/Security

Pins Mechanical
09.2021 - 09.2022

Sales and Operations Coordinator

Herc Rentals
10.2018 - 12.2021

Petty Officer 3rd

United States Navy
01.2013 - 01.2017
Blake Blackwelder