Carter Thayer

I've been developing my technical skills over the past several years through my time at Skilstak Coding Arts and Western Governors University, where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance. I'm a 24-year-old cybersecurity professional with a passion for FLOSS, Linux systems, SIEM technologies, InfoSec, and penetration testing. My favorite tools are Bash, Python, and Go. I'm an avid Linux user and a strong advocate for free and open source software.
Currently, I work as a Cybersecurity Consultant at TuckerCybersecurity, where I configure and monitor firewalls, routers, and VPNs using the FortiNet platform. I also provide services for CRTCybersecurity, including cybersecurity consultations, assessments, solutions, network architecture, system administration, and managed IT support. My goal is to continue building on my cybersecurity and network engineering skills to help protect and strengthen critical systems and infrastructure.

Skills

• System Administration
• Network and Cloud Security
• Threat Analysis and Management
• Cybersecurity Auditing and Testing
• Network Architecture and Segmentation
• Endpoint Security and Data Encryption

Professional Experience

Cybersecurity Consultant, Tucker Cybersecurity | Remote

May 2023 - Present

• Configured and managed Fortinet firewalls for enterprise networks, ensuring optimal security and performance.
• Managed and monitored network traffic using Fortinet’s Security Fabric and FortiAnalyzer for threat detection and reporting.
• Deployed FortiGate firewalls in HIPAA compliant environments.
• Ensured compliance with regulatory standards (e.g. HIPAA) using Fortinet security features.
• Configured security policies, NAT, VPN, and email settings to support business requirements.
• Conducted regular firewall rule audits to enhance security posture.
• Implemented IPSec-VPN solutions for remote workforce enablement and data protection.
• Documented firewall configuration, change management process, and incident response procedures.
• Diagnosed and resolved network issues related to Fortinet firewalls, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Provided technical support along with firmware upgrades and patch management.

Cybersecurity and General IT Consultant, CRTCybersecurity | Owner/General Manager

April 2023 - Present

• Conducted comprehensive security risk assessments for clients, identified risks, and recommended mitigation strategies to enhance overall security posture.
• Designed and implemented robust network infrastructures for enterprise environments.
• Advised clients on regulatory compliance and helped implement security controls to meet audit requirements.
• Managed the installation and configuration of network hardware such as routers, switches, firewalls, and servers, ensuring proper integration with existing I.T. systems.
• Set up VPNs to ensure secure remote access to corporate resources, using protocols such as IPSec and SSL.
• Configured secure Wi-Fi networks, including proper encryption and guest network segmentation.

Certifications

• Comptia Pentest+
• CompTIA Security+
• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA CySA+
• CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Project+
• Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
• Linux Essentials Certification (LPI)
• IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL)
• Microsoft Technology Associate: Software Development Fundamentals (MTA)
• Cybersecurity Awareness Certification (Fortinet)