Aspiring cybersecurity professional with a solid foundation in IT support, networking, and system troubleshooting. Actively pursuing CompTIA Security+ certification to facilitate a transition into a cybersecurity role. Eager to contribute technical problem-solving skills, a proactive mindset, and a security-first approach to enhance team effectiveness and safeguard organizational assets. Committed to continuous learning and staying current with industry trends to ensure the highest standards of security are maintained.
Hi, I’m
Cassondra Bennett
Raleigh,NC
Summary
Overview
12
years of professional experience
4
Certification
Work History
Verizon
Network Engineer
01.2014 - 01.2025
Job overview
- Monitored and maintained 24/7 surveillance of Verizon's Power, Transport, and Unified Transport networks within a high-volume Network Operations Center.
- Troubleshooting of routing and forwarding protocols (IS-IS, OSPF, BGP, MPLS, DWDM).
- Experience in troubleshooting Layer-1, Layer-2, and Layer-3 networks and connectivity.
- Experience in operating and troubleshooting optical networks and equipment.
- Successfully resolved over 1000 major network outages, significantly minimizing downtime through proactive troubleshooting and efficient ticket management.
- Collaborated extensively with internal network operation teams and external vendors to coordinate and successfully resolve critical network incidents within service level agreements.
- Led efforts with external vendors on network projects, upgrades, and migrations.
- Proactively identified and mitigated potential network vulnerabilities through regular security assessments and updates of routing protocols, reducing the risk of service disruptions.
- Developed documentation for systems/network, troubleshooting guides, policies, and procedures, improving knowledge transfer and operational efficiency.
- Led troubleshooting efforts to resolve complex network issues, minimizing downtime for critical services.
- Established documentation standards for network configurations, ensuring consistency across projects.
- Performed troubleshooting for Juniper, Cisco, and packet analysis.
- Delivered end-user support by troubleshooting connectivity issues and providing guidance on proper usage of networking equipment.
- Managed, tracked, and coordinated problem resolution and escalation processes.
- Trained junior engineers on industry best practices, fostering a collaborative team environment that prioritized knowledge sharing.
Sears Holding
Supervisor
01.2013 - 01.2014
Job overview
- Supervised associates, enforced quality standards, and managed escalated issues.
- Trained staff on internal procedures, communication, and customer data protection.
- Facilitated performance improvement strategies, to continue building on performance KPI goals consistently.
- Supervised daily operations to ensure team efficiency and adherence to company standards.
- Trained and mentored new employees on operational procedures and safety protocols.
- Resolved customer complaints effectively, enhancing overall satisfaction and loyalty.
- Led cross-functional teams in special projects aimed at increasing operational productivity.
- Oversaw daily operations of the department, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks.
- Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
- Resolved conflicts among team members promptly, maintaining a harmonious working environment conducive to productivity.
- Demonstrated commitment to the organization''s core values, leading by example and fostering a culture of excellence.
- Collaborated with other departments to achieve organizational goals, fostering teamwork across various functions.
- Boosted team morale and performance, organizing regular training sessions and motivational meetings.
- Optimized scheduling to ensure full coverage during peak hours without overstuffing, balancing customer service with cost efficiency.
Education
Wake Technical Community CollegeRaleigh, NC
Cybersecurity AAS
University Overview
In Progress
Skills
- Network Protocols: LAN/WAN troubleshooting, TCP/IP, Active Directory, User Account Management, Group Policy, VLANS, OSPF, MPLS, DWDM, Switching Network Protocols
- Security Awareness: Basic security protocols, incident reporting, CCTV monitoring, access control, system protection
- Technical Tools: Windows (XP to 10), Linux, Mobile Device Support, Cabling Standards, Hardware Diagnostics
- Skills: Strong verbal/written communication, team training, performance monitoring, escalation handling
- Hardware: Ciena 6500 5170 3926, Cisco
- Tool: Putty, Microsoft office, MobaX, Google
- Network Monitoring and Management: MCP, Site Manager, BGW, CTC, EPMN
- Certifications in Progress: CompTIA Security, FAA Part 107 Drone License
- Network configuration
- LAN switching technologies
- Layer-2/3 protocols
- Network Troubleshooting Abilities
- OSPF routing
- Network device monitoring
Certification
- CompTIA Network +, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+ (In Progress)
- Microsoft Technology Associate: Networking Fundamentals Certification
- FAA Part 107 sUAS Drone Certification (In Progress)
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Elementary
Timeline
Network Engineer
Verizon
01.2014 - 01.2025
Supervisor
Sears Holding
01.2013 - 01.2014
Wake Technical Community College
Cybersecurity AAS