Stephen Townsend
Raeford,NC
Summary
Results-driven communications and analysis professional with 19+ years of experience beginning in April 2006. Strong team player with expertise in information analysis, pattern recognition, satellite communications, digital networks, and structured personnel evaluation. Adept at simplifying technical concepts for non-technical audiences, delivering insightful reports, and collaborating across diverse teams. Experienced across global environments including Iraq, Afghanistan, Eastern Europe, and Africa.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Assessor / Training & Evaluation Specialist
U.S. Army – Special Forces Assessment & Selection
01.2021 - Current
- Evaluate hundreds of candidates annually using structured scoring systems, collecting data, and producing assessments.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams demonstrating teamwork, adaptability, and professionalism.
- Deliver instruction on leadership, problem solving, teamwork, and critical thinking.
- Produce detailed reports supporting decision-making.
Communications & Information Systems Specialist
U.S. Army Special Forces
01.2013 - 01.2021
- Managed satellite communications, digital networks, and secure data systems in dynamic environments.
- Conducted analysis of communication trends, outages, and performance metrics.
- Trained foreign partners simplifying complex technical information.
- Managed equipment valued over $10M with zero loss.
Technical & Operational Support Roles
U.S. Army
04.2006 - 01.2013
- Built foundational skills in digital communications, leadership, and operational planning.
- Completed rigorous training including survival, information protection, and instructor development.
Education
Associate of Arts - General Education
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Skills
- Data analysis and pattern recognition
- Team collaboration
- Satellite and network operations
- Technical troubleshooting
- Operational planning
- Instruction and training delivery
- Research and documentation
- Critical thinking
- Satellite communications
- Digital networks troubleshooting
- Encryption systems management
- Report writing and coaching
- Cross-cultural communication
Awards, Decorations & Badges
Bronze Star Medal; Army Commendation Medal (7); Army Achievement Medal (5); Meritorious Unit Commendation; Army Superior Unit Award; Good Conduct Medal (6); Afghanistan Campaign Medal (1 Star); Iraq Campaign Medal (2 Stars); GWOT Expeditionary & Service Medals; NCO Professional Development Ribbon (3); Overseas Service Ribbon (3); NATO Medal., Badges: Combat Action Badge, Parachutist, Military Freefall, Freefall Jumpmaster, Expert Rifle., Tab: Special Forces Tab.
Professional Military Education
- Instructor Development Course
- Senior Leader Course
- Advanced Leader Course
- Special Forces Qualification Course (Communications Sergeant)
- Special Operations Technical Exploitation SSE
- Special Operations Terminal Attack Controller Course
- SERE-C (High Risk)
- Airborne, Freefall, and Jumpmaster Courses
Languages
Russian
Professional
Timeline
Senior Assessor / Training & Evaluation Specialist
U.S. Army – Special Forces Assessment & Selection
01.2021 - Current
Communications & Information Systems Specialist
U.S. Army Special Forces
01.2013 - 01.2021
Technical & Operational Support Roles
U.S. Army
04.2006 - 01.2013
Associate of Arts - General Education
Fayetteville Technical Community College