First off, let me say that I’m sorry I haven’t updated in a while. Life has been moving at lightning speed, and between all the changes and milestones, I’ve hardly had a moment to sit down and reflect. But now that things are starting to settle, I wanted to take the time to share what’s been going on because, honestly, there’s a lot to talk about!
The Big Move: California Dreamin’
After years of moving around in the Army, my wife and I finally decided to put down roots, and California is where we’ve landed. The sunshine, the vibrant energy, and the opportunities here make it feel like the perfect place to start this next chapter. We even bought a home—a dream we’ve worked hard for over the years. It’s surreal to finally have a place to call our own, a space we can make truly ours. From setting up our fully automated smart home (you know I love my gadgets) to enjoying the stability that comes with homeownership, this move marks a huge milestone for us.
Transitioning Out of Active Duty
After spending a significant portion of my life in the Army, I’m now in the final stretch of my active duty service. The Army has shaped so much of who I am today, teaching me discipline, resilience, and leadership, and I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved in uniform. But as I prepare to transition out, I’m not saying goodbye to the military entirely. I’ll soon be joining a Cyber Reserve Unit, allowing me to continue serving in a field I’m passionate about while also making time for my career and personal goals. It feels like the best of both worlds.
Academic Milestone: Master’s Degree Complete
On top of the move and military transition, I’m also proud to share that I’ve completed my Master’s in Cyber Operations from the University of Maryland. This degree is more than just a credential; it represents countless hours of hard work and learning about the intricacies of cybersecurity. It’s a field I’ve grown to love, and this program has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to tackle the challenges ahead.
A New Role with GDIT
Speaking of challenges, I’ve officially started a new job with General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT). Joining a team at the forefront of technology and national defense feels like a natural progression for me. In my role, I’ll be focusing on many focuses involving security, applying everything I’ve learned from my military experience and academic studies. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of something that not only aligns with my expertise but also pushes me to keep growing.
Looking Ahead
As I juggle these new roles—homeowner, reservist, graduate, and cybersecurity professional—I’m filled with gratitude for how far I’ve come and excitement for what’s next. It’s been a busy season, but it’s the kind of busy that reminds you you’re building something meaningful.
If there’s one takeaway from all this, it’s that every step along the way—whether it’s a challenge or a win—adds to the bigger picture. And right now, I’m optimistic about the future.
Thanks for sticking with me and for your patience while I navigated all these changes. I’ll do my best to keep you updated more regularly moving forward. For anyone else going through big transitions, hang in there—the journey may be tough, but the destination is worth it.
Here’s to new beginnings and endless possibilities! Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like me to share or dive deeper into—I’d love to hear from you!
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