Vertex Pharmaceuticals

Cybersecurity Principal Engineer

Northrop Grumman

Principal Cyber Systems Engineer

US Navy

Provides expertise in cybersecurity, information technology, command and control, communications, networks and space systems through the planning, acquisition, operation, maintenance and security of systems.

Information Professional Officer

Responsible for establishing, monitoring, and maintaining radio frequency communication systems, as well as operating and maintaining global satellite telecommunications systems. Duties include transmitting, receiving, and storing all incoming and outgoing messages, managing and coordinating information systems security across platforms and fleets, and designing, installing, and operating wide-area networks, computer systems, and associated devices. Additional responsibilities include performing network system administration, maintenance, and training, managing network security, and installing applications while troubleshooting user issues. Tasked with providing training and assistance on computer hardware and software, writing programs to collect and distribute data, ensuring proper security and handling of communications materials and equipment, and performing diagnostics, data recovery operations, and maintaining logs.

Information System Technician

Responsible for installing, testing, troubleshooting, and repairing or replacing cryptologic networks, physical security systems, electronic equipment, antennas, personal computers, auxiliary devices, digital and optical interfaces, and data systems. Additional tasks include configuring, monitoring, and evaluating Information Operations (IO), Information Warfare (IW) systems, and Information Assurance (IA) operations. Expertise in performing hardware and software isolation and repairs for state-of-the-art electronics, computer and network equipment, and related systems using complex test and analysis equipment, diagnostic software, hand tools, and technical publications. Also tasked with maintaining fleet cryptologic permanent and carry-on direct support systems essential for special land, sea surface, and subsurface operations.

Cryptologic Technician (Maintenance)

Command Destroyer Squadron 21 (CDS 21)

Manages network and telecommunication activities to achieve global operations. Coordinates with global satellite, network and telecommunications service providers to obtain Internet Protocol services and to establish Service Levels of Agreement.

Information Technology Manager

Navy Information Operations Command Hawaii (NIOC HI)

Directed Computer Network Operations (CNO) teams in the planning and execution of Offensive Cyber Operations (OCO) supporting national objectives.

Cyber Warfare Officer

USS IWO JIMA (LHD-7)

Developed system Assessment and Authorization packages consisting of 50 systems under Risk Management Framework, implemented information assurance controls, documented risks and provided recommendations to leadership. Executed mitigation plan and developed Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M).

Information Systems Director

Naval Network Warfare Command (NNWC)

Provided command and control decision-making support and shared situational awareness of four global enterprise networks.

Global Network Operations and Security Center Manager

Command Destroyer Squadron 50 (CDS 50)

Provided critical Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) support to a staff of 40 overseas.

Navy Information Operations Command Georgia (NIOC GA)

Managed a 19-person, multi-service team responsible for the installation and maintenance of telecommunications and network infrastructure in support of 3,000 personnel.

Information Technology Division Supervisor

Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) Groton and Pearl Harbor

Certified, installed and maintained communications and network equipment suites to include local/wide area networks installation, troubleshooting, operating system configurations (Linux, Unix and Windows) and associated network administration.

Fleet Electronic Support Maintenance and Installation Technician

M.S. Network Operations & Technology | Sec+, IAM I, IAT II | ITIL v3 | Navy IP Officer | Seeking Cyber, GRC and ISSM-related roles | Open to CO, CO Springs and remote roles | Active TS/SCI Clearance | Available 8/23

As a seasoned cybersecurity professional and career strategist, I bridge the gap between technical expertise and career development in the rapidly evolving security landscape. My journey spans multiple technologies, industries, and organizations, giving me unique insights into what drives success in cybersecurity roles.

Having successfully navigated my own transition from military service to civilian cybersecurity, I now dedicate myself to guiding others through their career journeys. I specialize in helping veterans leverage their military experience for cybersecurity roles, understanding that the path can seem overwhelming without proper guidance.

I take pride in demystifying cybersecurity careers through:
- Strategic career mapping and transition planning
- Certification and skill development guidance
- Resume optimization and interview preparation
- Professional networking strategies
- Personal brand development

When I'm not mentoring cybersecurity professionals, you'll find me on the golf course, pursuing fitness goals, or writing about industry trends. These diverse interests inform my holistic approach to career development – because success in cybersecurity requires both technical excellence and personal balance.

Connect with me to discuss:
- Military to civilian transition strategies
- Breaking into cybersecurity
- Career advancement in security roles
- Professional development planning
- Building resilient security teams

I regularly share insights, trends, and opportunities in cybersecurity. Let's connect and build a stronger security community together.

Josh Hicks

Student Senate for California Community Colleges

REGIONCHAIR/REGIONALAFFAIRSDIRECTOR The Region Chair/Regional Affairs Director shall: 
1. Act as the official spokesperson of the Region. 
2. Serve as a voting member on the Student Senate for California Community Colleges Board of Directors. 
3. Serve on two Student Senate for California Community Colleges internal committees. 
4. Serve on at least one statewide participatory governance committee. 
5. Make appointments to the Region internal committees to be confirmed by the Delegate Assembly. 
6. Establish and maintain communication with the local student body associations of the Region. 
7. Actively recruit students to serve on statewide external committees, regional internal committees, and testimonies or panels. 
8. Sign letters, opinion/editorial submissions, and other official written communications on behalf of the Region that do not contradict with the legislative priorities, mission, and values of the Student Senate for California Community Colleges and/or the Board of Directors. 
9. Preside over all meetings of the Region Delegate Assembly and Region Executive Board. 
10. Prepare and disseminate all meeting agendas of the Region Delegate Assembly and Region Executive Board. 
11. Present two annual State of the Region addresses, one at the beginning and at the end of the term. 12. Make regular visits to each local student body association per academic year as resources allow. 
13. Maintain a list of verified Delegates for the Region. 
14. Shall serve as an alternate voting member on any Student Senate for California Community Colleges internal committee in the absence of any other region officer. 
15. Serve as a non-voting ex-officio member of all Region committees.

Region X Regional Affairs Director

A caucus refers to an autonomous group comprising individuals who share common interests and seek to formally express their perspectives to the SSCCC. It is important to note that a caucus operates independently and is neither sponsored, chartered, nor governed by the SSCCC. The SSCCC does not impose any fees or dues for caucus recognition. While certain guidelines specified by the SSCCC must be adhered to, as outlined below, a caucus has the freedom to establish its own processes and procedures without requiring SSCCC approval.

Veterans Caucus: Chair: Yonatan “Yogi” Hernandez - yhernandez012@student.sdccd.edu

As a part of the Legislative Affairs committee and STEM Caucus, I've represented and advocated for student interests at both statewide and district levels. Engage in policy discussions, collaborate with community colleges across California, and work with state legislators to address higher education issues. Contribute to the development and implementation of legislative strategies, ensuring student voices are heard in decision-making processes.

Alternate Delegate, Legislative Affairs committee

US Veteran Charity

President of US Veteran Charity Inc., provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and external advocacy to ensure veterans and their families can easily discover and access the full spectrum of support services in one unified hub. Core duties span vision‑setting, coalition building, program development, and stakeholder engagement. The organization has launched a centralized Resource Portal, expanded coalition partnerships with both the San Diego Veterans Coalition and the Orange County Veterans & Military Families Collaborative, rolled out virtual workshop series, and established emergency grant and legal‑aid initiatives—all aligned with your principle that “a sea of goodwill is only as good as the audience that knows about it.”
1. Strategic Leadership & Governance:define and refine the organization’s long‑term vision, ensuring alignment with our mission to empower veterans nationwide, while reporting regularly to—and collaborating with—the Board of Directors on fiscal, operational, and programmatic strategy. 
2. Program Development & Delivery: spearhead the design and launch of core initiatives—such as resource navigation tools, educational scholarship programs, and mental‑health support services—overseeing timeline, budget, and impact metrics to guarantee high‑quality execution.
3. Operations Management & Efficiency: implement process improvements and technology solutions to streamline intake, referral tracking, and data reporting—creating a cohesive, user‑centric experience that reduces service fragmentation and maximizes resource utilization.
4. Stakeholder Engagement & Coalition Building: The principal liaison, cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with veteran coalitions, government agencies, and community groups to broaden our reach and amplify collective impact.
5. Advocacy, Outreach & Communication: lead multimedia awareness campaigns to inform about available resources, ensuring that no one falls through the cracks in the “sea of goodwill"

President of the Board of Directors

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society International

The Phi Theta Kappa Vice President of Scholarship focuses on promoting academic excellence within the chapter. This includes overseeing Honors in Action projects, coordinating the chapter's participation in the Honors Case Study Challenge, and preparing Honors in Action Awards entries. Additionally, the Vice President of Scholarship educates members about PTK Connect and encourages academic achievement.

Encouraging Academic Excellence:
This officer promotes a culture of academic achievement within the chapter, encouraging members to pursue their studies with diligence and excellence.
Overseeing Honors in Action Projects:
The Vice President of Scholarship ensures that Honors in Action projects, which involve community service and academic exploration, are effectively implemented and contribute to the chapter's goals.
Honors Case Study Challenge Coordination:
This officer coordinates the chapter's involvement in the Honors Case Study Challenge, a national competition that tests students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Honors in Action Awards Coordination:
The Vice President of Scholarship helps prepare the chapter's entries for the Honors in Action Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in community service and academic exploration.
PTK Connect Education:
This officer educates chapter members about PTK Connect, a platform that connects PTK members with resources and opportunities.

Vice president of Scholarship 

Student Veterans of America

Chapter Leadership & Founding Vision

Established the first official Student Veterans of America Chapter at San Diego City College, building the organization from the ground up to empower, connect, and advocate for veteran students and their families.

Defined the chapter’s vision, mission, and bylaws in alignment with national SVA standards and San Diego City College’s student leadership framework.

Represented the chapter as its primary voice with campus leadership, community partners, and veteran-serving organizations.

Program Development & Campus Engagement

Designed and executed a comprehensive calendar of veteran-centered events, including Veterans Day recognition, Military Appreciation initiatives, and ongoing leadership workshops.

Organized chapter participation in campus-wide events such as Orientation Week, student fairs, and advocacy days to increase visibility and recruitment.

Launched the chapter’s first Golf Scholarship Fundraiser, creating a sustainable model to fund scholarships for student veterans, service members, their families, and Gold Star families.

Member & Leadership Development

Built and mentored the founding executive committee and student leaders, empowering them with skills in event planning, public speaking, and project management.

Fostered connections to national SVA opportunities including the SVA Leadership Institute, Regional Summits, and professional development workshops.

Promoted an inclusive environment by collaborating with other student organizations, ensuring veteran voices are integrated into broader student governance and advocacy.

Community Partnerships & Advocacy

Partnered with local nonprofits, employers, and veteran coalitions to expand resources for student veterans.

Advocated for improved veteran student support services, including representation in student government and access to state-designated veteran resources.

Founder & Chapter President

Mil2Vet

As a passionate communicator with a deep appreciation for veterans and their stories, I serve as the Podcast Host at Return to Roots. In this role, I have the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with veterans, share their transition journeys, and provide valuable insights to our audience.

As the Podcast Host, I am responsible for conducting interviews, guiding discussions, and showcasing the experiences of veterans who have successfully transitioned into civilian life. My goal is to connect with guests, ask thought-provoking questions, and create an engaging atmosphere for our show.

In addition to featuring veterans, we also interview organizations focused on helping military personnel, veterans, and their families. By highlighting these organizations, we aim to provide valuable resources and support to help individuals navigate the "sea of good will" successfully.

Collaborating closely with the production team, I contribute to developing episode topics, researching guests, and ensuring high-quality content. My excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, play a vital role in connecting with our audience and fostering a sense of community.

We aim to empower veterans, raise awareness, and provide valuable resources for a successful transition into civilian life. Through sharing the inspiring stories of veterans and interviewing organizations, we strive to make a difference in their lives and provide a comprehensive support network.

Join me at Return to Roots as we embark on this mission together. Let's make a positive impact by amplifying the voices and experiences of veterans, as well as the organizations dedicated to supporting them. Stay connected with our show on LinkedIn and be part of our community dedicated to serving military personnel, veterans, and their families.

Together, we can empower veterans and create a brighter future for those transitioning into civilian life.

CEO Podcast Host

Throughout my Navy journey, I've risen to Navy Chief Petty Officer after starting in basic training in Chicago. Since April 2022, I've proudly served in Coronado, California, with a remarkable team. Career development and mentoring LIMDU Sailors are our key focuses.

As a Forward Deployed Naval Chief Petty Officer for nearly six years, we implemented policies, led over 523 personnel across teams, and flawlessly processed 10,000+ documents with a 97% sortie completion rate. Command-level programs enhanced our operational and administrative leadership.

I also led Aviation Quality Assurance for 19 years in worldwide locations as an Aviation Structural Mechanics Safety Equipment Man.

Our team excels in aviation maintenance, management, training, cross-functional leadership, communication, military experience, security clearance, logistics, heavy equipment operation, and public speaking. Upholding standards and fostering growth for enlisted and officer Sailors drive us.

Grateful for exceptional teams across multiple locations, dedication, collaboration, and unwavering commitment define our collective success.

Duty stations in order:
1. Chicago, Illinois, United States
2. Pensacola, Florida, United States
3. Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States
4. Atsugi, Kanagawa, Japan
5. Key West, Florida, United States
6. Oak Harbor, Washington, United States
7. Iwakuni, Yamaguchi, Japan
8. Coronado, California, United States

Navy Chief Petty Officer

Elray Search

• Focused in growing and middle market aerospace, satellite and defense firms (private equity, employee-owned and public)
• Roles placed include VP Finance, VP Business Development, General Manager, VP Operations, US BD Director, Corporate Controller

Executive Recruiter

Yogiway

Business Owner

Whole Foods Market

Team Lead Manager

As the sun rises on each new challenge, I carry with me the echoes of 22 years beneath the U.S. Navy’s proud banner—each sunrise a promise of possibility, each horizon a call to serve. Today, I blend that steadfast devotion with the curiosity of an engineer and the storyteller’s heart of a journalist at San Diego City College.

In my role as Chair of the Veterans Caucus for the Student Senate for California Community Colleges, I’ve woven eight resolutions into the fabric of all 116 campuses—resolutions born from the voices of service members, veterans, Gold Star families, and the communities that uplift them. At our recent General Assembly, we etched policies into life that will nurture resilience, foster belonging, and ensure every veteran’s story shapes the path ahead.

Through the MIL2VET podcast, I amplify the whispers of transition into a chorus of triumph, sharing the journeys of those who’ve traded uniforms for new uniforms of ambition. And with the Senior Enlisted Leaders Monthly Industry Networking Breakfast in San Diego, I’ve created a hearth where seasoned warriors and industry visionaries gather—to share wisdom, kindle opportunity, and chart courses beyond the seas we once sailed.

Now, our hands join in a new mission: raising funds for scholarships that will open doors to education, remove the weight of financial worry, and let dreams of tomorrow take wing today. These scholarships are more than gifts—they are beacons of hope lighting the way for those who have given so much.

If you are a veteran, an ally, a friend, or family—lend us your voice. Share your story. Together, we will craft a future where every campus, every classroom, and every life pulses with possibility. Let’s rise, together.

taplio

The Battle

Josh Hicks

Yonatan Hernandez

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