Randall Godinez

Personal Statement

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All things can be done through hard work, determination, and through the help of others. All the big problems I have faced had these as contributors to my success. An example great showcase of these at the play is when I had an ambitious project on my car. Working on vehicles is no easy feat and requires a good amount of gumption to get things rolling. I would consider myself slightly above a novice and this project was over my head. The novice experience did not stop as I wanted this to be done and knew it would be possible. I put in the time and did all the preparation work and research and made sure everything went to plan. On the day that we started the process, I called reinforcements as I was unable to lift hundreds of pounds by myself and I did not have prior experience with this type of project. Of course, there always are roadblocks, and I hit quite a few. I was able to brainstorm with the group I had pulled together, and we got it done in under a week of labor. Getting the car rolling out of the garage felt amazing and I made sure to let everyone who worked on my project take a spin as without them it would not have been possible.

Innovation Statement

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Everything around us exists because of innovation. At its core, innovation is the transformation of ideas into impact. One of the greatest innovations I always refer to is the invention of the wheel. Though simple in design, its impact is undeniable—it revolutionized transportation, industry, and countless aspects of daily life.

I view innovation itself as a wheel—a tool that propels solutions forward. A seemingly impossible task, such as moving a 300-pound object, becomes significantly easier with the right innovation. By attaching wheels, what once felt immovable suddenly becomes manageable. Similarly, in problem-solving, the right idea can act as a wheel, transforming obstacles into opportunities and making progress attainable.

Academic Experience

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CYSM 4700 Cloud Computing & Security

Learned the technology behind cloud computing using Amazon Web Services (AWS). Gained knowledge of the fundamental principles, architecture, and technology behind cloud computing. Used the knowledge gained to better understand how to defend against cloud-target cyber-attacks.

CS 4910 Intro to Computer Security

Studied basic cryptographic techniques, user authentication, access controls, malicious software, network attacks and protection, software security, and operating system security. Participated in hands-on exercises that assisted in the mechanisms of the class topics.

CS 4420 Database Systems I

Introduced to general database concepts and database system technology. Practiced making Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERD), SQL queries, database design and security, and algebra using MySQL.

CS 4220 Computer Networks

Focuses on basic network setup, protocol concepts, and hands-on labs on network management, network programming, and network planning. Discussed topics such as Internet protocols and routing, local area networks, basic TCP/IP programming, congestion control, packet switching and routing, quality-of-service, and network management.

CS 3910 System Administration and Security

Covered the installation, configuration, and management of mainstream operating systems. Discussed topics such as important network services, disaster recovery procedures, and security practices to ensure the systems. The class largely used Windows Server 2019 and dove into how to create and manage users, as well as how to create a domain controller.

CS 3300 Software Engineering

Built a strong foundation for the development of maintainable code through modern practices. Topics discussed include version control, project management, coding best practices, cloud services, and web technologies to deploy a working interactive website.

CS 2080 Programming with UNIX

An introduction to the UNIX operating system emphasizing on development of shell programs. Participated in hands-on labs that further dove into access control, security practices, file management, and commonly used commands.

WORK EXPERIENCE

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• Maintain internal and external knowledge base documentation with advanced troubleshooting and procedures improving workflow
• Engage with second and third level teams on more complex issues optimizing resolution efficiency, procedures, and protocols
• Collaborated on training checklist to assist in onboarding interns, instilling essential skills for excellent job performance
• Oversee the daily function and flow of the service desk and allocate service desk staffing resources to handle varying workloads
• Foster a positive workplace environment by promoting communication, teamwork, and organizing morale-boosting activities

• Performed regular maintenance of classroom audio and video equipment reducing downtime
• Provided technical support to customers in a high-volume call center environment ensuring customer satisfaction
• Diagnosed hardware and software issues, focusing on quick and quality resolutions
• Configured and imaged Windows and Apple computers for customers with attention to detail
• Provide first level support to customers via in-person, call, email and chat services, guaranteeing timely resolution of inquiries

• Analyzed network activity to identify and mitigate threats and anomalies
• Reviewed and assessed Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) to further identify potential impacts on systems
• Escalated identified threats and anomalies with detailed analysis of actionable insights

• Imaged Windows machines using Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) to maintain device compliance
• Spearheaded the inventory process of electronic devices, minimizing electronic waste

• Developed a CompTIA Security + study guide to assist low-income middle school students in advancing their skills and knowledge
• Coordinated project timeline with project managers, reducing potential delays

• Assisted students with software and hardware issues, creating positive customer experience
• Maintained and stocked printers, increasing the efficiency of student printing

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

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