Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Accomplishments
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Timeline
Generic

DOWAYNE COLQUITT

Pickerington

Summary

A highly accomplished and results-oriented Information Technology and Cybersecurity Leader, recognized for exceptional leadership in managing cyber incident response teams, directing highly skilled cybersecurity personnel, and safeguarding critical information systems within complex, global organizations. Proven ability to excel as a Section Chief through proactive coordination of IT programs, meticulous oversight of multiple IT projects, and unwavering commitment to the rigorous application of information security and information assurance policies, principles, and practices. Expertise in risk and vulnerability assessments, incident management, and international collaboration across diverse technology environments, including Enterprise, Hybrid, and Cloud. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrated by a consistent record of effectively briefing senior leadership, articulating complex technical concepts concisely, and fostering a culture of security awareness across diverse audiences. Eager to leverage extensive experience, proven leadership abilities, and a deep commitment to national security as Section Chief, Cyber Incident Response Team, contributing directly to the enhanced security, resilience, and operational readiness of critical IT infrastructure.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

NOC Lead - IT Specialist (GG-12)

Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)
07.2020 - Current
  • Directed and supervised cyber incident response activities, leading a team to rapidly contain and remediate critical outages affecting FVEY partners (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States), directly safeguarding warfighter capabilities and maintaining international collaboration.
  • Managed and mentored a team of technicians responsible for the proactive maintenance and security of FVEY Special Services, including classified web applications, email, and chat platforms, ensuring robust, reliable, and secure communication channels for global collaboration.
  • Coordinated and oversaw multiple critical IT projects related to REL DMZ and Pegasus account management, access control implementation, and security compliance adherence, leveraging Active Directory and Microsoft Exchange to enforce stringent security protocols and minimize unauthorized access.
  • Developed and implemented enhanced security policies and procedures for incident reporting, escalation, and resolution, utilizing Remedy to track, analyze, and resolve network and service disruptions, ensuring timely and effective communication with stakeholders and minimizing operational impact.
  • Conducted comprehensive risk and vulnerability assessments of Pegasus and REL DMZ services, collaborating with US DoD and non-DoD entities to identify vulnerabilities, prioritize mitigation strategies, and minimize potential security breaches, strengthening overall cybersecurity posture.
  • Prepared and delivered high-impact briefings to senior leadership, presenting weekly and monthly metrics on incident trends, security posture, and overall system performance, providing actionable insights to inform strategic decision-making and optimize resource allocation.
  • Served as a trusted advisor and subject matter expert, providing daily support to FVEY partners, compiling comprehensive situational reports, and facilitating monthly meetings to proactively address emerging threats, enhance collaborative security efforts, and promote a culture of shared responsibility.
  • Championed information system reliability and accessibility, serving as a Change Coordinator to ensure seamless implementation of authorized service interruptions for system maintenance and security patching, minimizing disruption to critical operations and maximizing system uptime.
  • Spearheaded the development and delivery of comprehensive core training to the new CSOG Organization, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to achieve Initial Operating Capability (IOC) and effectively defend against unauthorized access to systems, networks, and data.
  • Consistently recognized for exceptional performance, receiving a "5" (Outstanding) on annual employee evaluation, reflecting exemplary achievements in customer support, communication, teamwork, cyber workforce development, organizational support, administrative duties, and incident management.

Director of Operations / IT Networking Engineer T3

CACI Technologies
06.2014 - 06.2020
  • Oversaw day-to-day production activities, ensuring alignment with business objectives as a System Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) contractor.
  • Collaborated closely with the Government Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) for the Aerostat program, ensuring diligent oversight of contractual obligations and adherence to quality standards.
  • Provided technical oversight of a multi-site enterprise-level WAN/LAN, including planning, implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities.
  • Oversaw digital security protocols, ensuring compliance with cross-domain violation (CDV) and discharge of classified information (DCI) policies while maintaining operational security (OPSEC).

Help Desk Administrator

Exelis
11.2013 - 06.2014
  • Resolved escalated technical issues, serving as a subject matter expert and providing advanced troubleshooting support to end-users.
  • Provided comprehensive help desk and field support to customers accessing network services and resources, ensuring seamless user experience and minimizing operational disruptions.
  • Troubleshoot network connectivity issues, resolving complex problems with standard network equipment, protocols, and interfaces.

Communications Unit

US Air Force- Dept. Of Defense
03.2012 - 05.2013
  • Briefed unit leadership on operational readiness, providing clear and concise updates on training progress, equipment availability, and personnel deployments.
  • Developed and presented training modules on essential communications tasks, ensuring personnel were equipped with the knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively.
  • Oversaw the operational readiness of 168 communications and support personnel, ensuring full compliance with Air Force standards and readiness requirements.

Intelligence Support Unit

US Air Force- Dept. Of Defense
03.2011 - 03.2012
  • Managed system configurations and antivirus updates for 300 information systems, ensuring consistent availability, security, and compliance with IT directives.
  • Oversaw the Customer Service Team trouble ticket database, ensuring timely resolution of troubleshooting and repair tasks for Command, Control, Communications, and Computer Systems (C4) supporting Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
  • Developed and implemented local policies governing system access, network rights, and physical security, enforcing adherence to quality assurance (QA) standards and security protocols.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Communications And Information Technology

The Ohio State University
Columbus, OH
01-2024

Associate of Arts - Project Management

University of Maryland University College
Adelphi, MD

Associate of Arts - Project Management

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach, FL

Skills

  • Cyber Incident Response Leadership: Directing Incident Handling & Management, Overseeing Malware Analysis & Forensics Investigation, Integrating Threat Intelligence, Managing Security Event Analysis & Prioritization, Implementing & Monitoring Corrective Actions, Leading Incident Response Drills & Exercises
  • Cybersecurity Program Management: Developing & Enforcing Security Policies, Ensuring Information Assurance & Compliance, Conducting Security Audits & Assessments, Designing & Delivering Security Awareness Programs, Managing Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS), Implementing & Administering Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Solutions, Safeguarding Critical Systems, Developing Policies and Procedures
  • IT Program & Project Management: IT Project Planning & Execution, Schedule Development & Monitoring, Deliverable Oversight & Quality Assurance, Benefits Realization Management, Life Cycle Management, Program Governance & Reporting, Budget Management, Resource Allocation
  • Team Leadership & Personnel Management: Serving as Section Chief, Directing Technical Personnel, Supervising & Evaluating Employees, Conducting Performance Management, Providing Training & Mentoring, Resolving Conflicts & Mediating Disputes, Delegating Tasks & Empowering Team Members, Strategic Planning & Execution, Fostering Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Communication & Interpersonal Effectiveness: Delivering Oral Presentations & Briefings, Crafting Technical Writing & Documentation, Practicing Active Listening & Providing Feedback, Utilizing Non-Verbal Communication & Building Rapport, Exhibiting Interpersonal Skills & Diplomacy, Delivering Clear & Convincing Communication to Technical and Non-Technical Audiences
  • Technical Expertise: Mastery of IT Principles & Emerging Technologies, Deep Understanding of NIPR/SIPR/CENTRIX, Expertise in REL DMZ/PEGASUS, Proficiency in CWAN/CDES, Skilled in High-Speed Guards (HSGs)/CDGs, Expertise in Defense Collaboration Services (DCS), Proficiency in Solar Winds, Microsoft Office Suite, Windows/Linux Administration, Active Directory/Microsoft Exchange, Enterprise/Hybrid/Cloud Architectures
  • Risk Management & Vulnerability Assessment: Conducting Comprehensive Risk & Vulnerability Assessments, Performing Advanced Threat Modeling & Analysis, Identifying & Prioritizing Vulnerabilities, Developing & Implementing Effective Mitigation Strategies, Promoting Security Awareness
  • Qualifying Experience: Managing Cyber Incident Response, Managing Information System Security, Using IT Principles and Emerging Technologies, Providing Technical Leadership, Safeguarding Critical Systems, Supporting Enterprise, Hybrid, and Cloud Technologies, Leading Technicians
  • IT troubleshooting
  • IT documentation
  • Information security
  • Troubleshooting
  • Application support
  • Technical issue analysis
  • Technical reporting
  • Project implementation
  • Technical support
  • Staff education and training
  • Windows 10
  • Videoconferencing
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Decision-making
  • Data entry
  • Analytical thinking

Certification

  • CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) | Exp. Aug 2028
  • PMP (Project Management Professional) | Exp. Nov 2029
  • CompTIA Security+ CE Certified, current
  • CompTIA Server+ CE Certified, current
  • Microsoft Project Certified

Accomplishments

  • Demonstrated leadership in restoring critical communications infrastructure for New Zealand (NZL) within the FVEY network, ensuring seamless information flow and unwavering support for the warfighter during a significant service disruption.
  • Exercised technical expertise in troubleshooting and resolving a critical SVOIP outage impacting all FVEY nations, coordinating with multiple agencies (CSOG, UCNNOC, USAF, UK, CAN, NZL, AUS) to restore services rapidly and maintain operational readiness.
  • Improved data integrity and accuracy by proactively clearing outdated incidents from CommandNet, providing leadership with a clear and accurate view of the organization's security posture and facilitating informed decision-making.
  • Orchestrated the scheduling and coordination of all Authorized Service Interruptions (ASIs) for April, ensuring proactive system maintenance and minimizing disruptions to critical services, demonstrating exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Contributed significantly to strategic planning and international collaboration as a key participant in AUSUK meetings, fostering alignment on critical IT initiatives and strengthening global security partnerships.
  • Spearheaded the restoration of GVSC services for the Department of Energy – NNSA, collaborating with T3 level support (IPNOC) to resolve complex technical issues and ensure uninterrupted access to critical resources for national security missions.
  • Enhanced communication and transparency by designing and delivering impactful briefings to DISA leadership, effectively communicating complex technical information, and providing actionable insights to inform strategic decision-making.
  • Elevated DoD cybersecurity posture by expertly coordinating and overseeing mission-critical Authorized Service Interruptions (ASIs) across REL DMZ and PEGASUS environments, facilitating the critical IronPort tech refresh and mitigating potential vulnerabilities, strengthening the resilience of the DoDIN.
  • Streamlined operational processes by developing a comprehensive TTP for the ASI submission process, enhancing team efficiency, ensuring consistent application of security protocols, and reducing administrative burden.
  • Maintained unwavering operational awareness by meticulously completing MPCO operational status Quads, providing leadership with clear, concise, and accurate reports on the health and security of critical systems.
  • Demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills by personally managing a high volume of incident tickets, contributing directly to the overall security, stability, and operational efficiency of the organization's IT infrastructure.
  • Successfully served as Acting Section Chief for HC3511, Special Services LOB, demonstrating the leadership capabilities, technical expertise, and interpersonal skills necessary to manage a team and oversee critical operations effectively.
  • Conducted risk and vulnerability assessments of planned and installed information systems to identify vulnerabilities, risks, and protection needs, promoting awareness of security issues among management.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • United States Air Force Veteran
  • Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated
  • 90% Disabled Combat Veteran
  • ISC2 Member
  • PMI Institute Member
  • Holder of current Top Secret clearance with ability to obtain Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance
  • Willing to travel up to 15% CONUS and OCONUS

Timeline

NOC Lead - IT Specialist (GG-12)

Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)
07.2020 - Current

Director of Operations / IT Networking Engineer T3

CACI Technologies
06.2014 - 06.2020

Help Desk Administrator

Exelis
11.2013 - 06.2014

Communications Unit

US Air Force- Dept. Of Defense
03.2012 - 05.2013

Intelligence Support Unit

US Air Force- Dept. Of Defense
03.2011 - 03.2012

Associate of Arts - Project Management

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach

Bachelor of Arts - Communications And Information Technology

The Ohio State University

Associate of Arts - Project Management

University of Maryland University College