Brandon Alward
Mount Vernon,WA
Summary
Highly reliable professional with 10 years of U.S. Navy service as a Cryptologic Technician, recognized for rapid advancement, exceptional performance, and leadership under pressure. Deployed 10 times, including service as Leading Petty Officer on four deployments overseeing teams of 20–40 personnel. Brings proven strengths in attention to detail, critical thinking, teamwork, and stress tolerance. Currently pursuing a degree in Biochemistry while working in a university work-study role managing high-volume student records, customer service, and administrative operations. Known for accountability, adaptability, and the ability to perform in complex, fast-paced environments.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Work Study Student
Veterans Affairs
Bellingham, WA
03.2023 - Current
- Assisted veterans in navigating benefits applications and services, enhancing client satisfaction.
- Collaborated with team to streamline appointment scheduling, improving operational efficiency.
- Conducted research on veteran programs, supporting development of informational resources for staff and clients.
- Provided administrative support, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with agency policies.
- Trained new interns on office procedures and systems, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- Input data into spreadsheets and databases.
- Promptly received and forwarded incoming communications, such as phone calls, emails, and letters, to appropriate staff.
- Developed training materials for peer onboarding, standardizing processes across the department.
Cryptologic Technician (Technical)
Department Of Defense
Oak Harbor
08.2013 - 01.2023
- Analyzed complex cryptographic data to support national security initiatives.
- Developed and implemented procedures for secure communications protocols.
- Optimized signal collection strategies through careful assessment of environmental factors and target behavior patterns.
- Upheld code of conduct and maintained professionalism in stressful situations.
- Trained in conflict resolution among subordinates, equals and superiors.
- Provided critical support during high-stakes missions, enabling swift decision-making under pressure.
- Supported mission planning efforts with detailed analysis on potential vulnerabilities in adversary communications infrastructure.
- Mentored junior team members, fostering a culture of excellence and professional growth within the unit.
- Tested equipment, networks and servers for signal strength and security vulnerabilities using specialized equipment.
- Maintained strict confidentiality of information.
- Maintained awareness of subordinates' personal problems and shortcomings, supporting personal and professional growth.
- Dealt with inter-company conflicts to remove obstacles to troop readiness.
- Increased situational awareness by effectively managing complex arrays of sensors and receivers during operations.
- Maintained high standards of security by ensuring strict adherence to information assurance policies.
- Developed innovative solutions to emerging challenges in the field of cryptography and electronic warfare.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Western Washington University
Bellingham, WA06-2027
Skills
- Excellent communication
- Creative thinking
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- Flexible and adaptable
- Multitasking
- Customer service
- Team collaboration
- Attention to detail
- Decision-making
- Organizational skills
- Task prioritization
Timeline
Work Study Student
Veterans Affairs
03.2023 - Current
Cryptologic Technician (Technical)
Department Of Defense
08.2013 - 01.2023
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Western Washington University