Jerry Bennett
Cybersecurity | Software Development | Technical Communication
For nearly three years, I taught cybersecurity to people entering the field—network security, threat intelligence, incident response, the whole curriculum. Before that, I worked as a software developer and implemented security measures for political campaigns. Now I'm looking to apply all of that in hands-on security roles.
I hold current certifications (Security+ CySA+ CSAP ISC2 Associate) and I'm building AWS serverless applications. I can explain complex security concepts clearly—something you learn when you've taught 100+ students with different backgrounds and learning styles.
Fairfield County, CT area or remote.
Background
My path to cybersecurity wasn't a straight line. Before tech, I spent years in education and youth services, running programs and managing teams. I learned how to explain complex ideas clearly, build trust quickly, and stay calm under pressure.
Education & Training
- Flatiron School - Cybersecurity Engineering (2021): Immersive, hands-on training covering network security, threat intelligence, incident response, SIEM management, and GRC frameworks
- Flatiron School - Software Engineering (2017-2018): Full-stack web development including Ruby/Rails, JavaScript, React, and database design
- Udacity - Front-End Web Developer (2017): Modern JavaScript, React, and Redux
Cybersecurity
Security work from campaign environments, lab training, and current certifications (Security+, CySA+, CSAP, ISC2 Associate).
Full-Stack Development
I've been building web applications since 2017—from small business websites to fintech platforms to my current AWS serverless project. I approach development with a security-first mindset.
Current Tech Stack
Frontend: React 18, TypeScript (strict mode), Vite, TailwindCSS
Backend: Python, Node.js, Ruby/Rails
Database: DynamoDB, PostgreSQL, SQL
Cloud: AWS Lambda, S3, CloudFront, API Gateway
Tools: Git, Docker, AWS SDK, Zod validation
AI Tools: Claude Code, Gemini, ChatGPT
Focus: Security, accessibility (WCAG 2.1 AA), performanceDevelopment Approach
- AI-Assisted Development - I use Claude Code to accelerate implementation while maintaining architectural control. I make the design decisions and research solutions—AI handles the implementation details.
- Security First - Input validation, authentication, and data protection are built in from the start, not added later.
- Type Safety - TypeScript strict mode for compile-time safety, Zod for runtime validation.
- Cost-Conscious Architecture - My current AWS project targets a $100/month development budget through serverless architecture and efficient resource use.
- Accessibility - WCAG 2.1 AA compliance from the start.
- Performance - Optimized load times, efficient queries, measured results.
AWS & Cloud
Experience designing and implementing serverless applications on AWS with focus on cost optimization and scalability.
Services & Tools
This portfolio site: S3 + CloudFront for under $2/month. Current SEC filing analytics project: $100/month during development, scaling to ~$800/month for production workloads.
Technical Training & Instruction
Nearly three years teaching cybersecurity to 100+ students at Flatiron School. I can develop curriculum, deliver technical training, and explain complex security concepts to diverse audiences—a skill that translates well to security awareness training, team onboarding, and stakeholder communication.
SEC Filing Analytics Platform
Currently building a serverless financial analytics application for SEC filing analysis. Using AI-assisted development (Claude Code) to accelerate implementation while making all architectural decisions.
Architecture
- S3-Centric Storage - S3 for bulk data, DynamoDB for metadata. Cost-optimized.
- Serverless Compute - Lambda functions for auto-scaling and pay-per-use.
- Authentication Bridge - Stateless API security for scalable access control.
- Global CDN - CloudFront for fast global delivery.
Cybersecurity Instructor
Lead Cybersecurity Instructor at Flatiron School (Dec 2021 - Aug 2024), delivering comprehensive training programs to 100+ students across multiple cohorts. Covered network security, threat intelligence, SIEM management, incident response, and compliance frameworks through hands-on labs and real-world scenarios.
Topics Covered
- Network Security - TCP/IP, OSI model, firewalls, VPNs, network protocols, traffic analysis
- Threat Intelligence - Cyber Kill Chain, Diamond Model, MITRE ATT&CK, threat actor identification
- SIEM & Monitoring - Splunk, ELK Stack (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana), log analysis, alert tuning
- Incident Response - Detection, containment, eradication, recovery, post-incident review
- Security Tools - Wireshark packet analysis, Nmap network discovery, Kali Linux, penetration testing basics
- GRC & Compliance - Governance frameworks, risk management, NIST standards, security policies
Achieved 80% graduation rate (50% improvement over baseline) through continuous curriculum refinement and personalized student support. Increased student technical proficiency by 20% measured through practical lab assessments. Boosted engagement ratings by 15% over three quarters through scenario-based learning modules on emerging threats.
Campaign Security Implementation
Cybersecurity strategy and implementation for political campaigns (DigiDems, 2018 & 2020), protecting voter data and internal communications during high-stakes election cycle. Led technical operations for distributed team of 40+ staff and volunteers working remotely across multiple locations.
Security Measures & Impact
- VPN & MFA Implementation - Deployed secure communications infrastructure reducing cyber incidents by 30% during 6-month campaign cycle
- Security Training Program - Conducted real-time threat simulations and phishing prevention workshops, improving security readiness by 40%
- Google Workspace Administration - Managed MFA deployment, application permissions, and device security policies for secure remote operations
- IT Operations Optimization - Configured network security settings and secure remote access, reducing technical downtime by 25%
- Direct Support - Provided IT support for 50+ users including device setup, troubleshooting, and hardware repair during time-sensitive operations
Current Certifications
Professional Experience
- Building serverless financial analytics application using AI-assisted development (Claude Code)
- Designing AWS architecture including service selection, cost optimization, and security implementation
- 6 Lambda microservices with S3-centric architecture, DynamoDB, CloudFront CDN—targeting $100/month development budget
- React 18, TypeScript strict mode, Python backend with WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility and Zod validation
- Delivered cybersecurity training to cohorts of up to 40 students covering network security, threat intelligence, SIEM, incident response, and compliance
- Achieved 80% graduation rate (50% improvement) and 20% increase in technical proficiency through curriculum refinement and personalized support
- Designed hands-on labs using Wireshark, Splunk, ELK Stack, and cyber ranges for practical skill development
- Developed scenario-based modules on emerging threats, increasing engagement ratings by 15% over three quarters
- Implemented VPNs, MFA, and endpoint controls, reducing cyber incidents by 30%
- Trained 40+ campaign staff on security practices through real-time simulations and phishing prevention, improving readiness by 40%
- Managed Google Workspace Administration (MFA, permissions, device policies) for secure distributed team operations
- Provided IT support for 50+ users including setup, troubleshooting, and hardware repair during time-sensitive operations
- Developed financial analytics platform in startup environment
- Built notes and flagging system using React, Redux, and Ruby on Rails for issue tracking and team communication
- Worked with cross-functional teams to improve application functionality, scalability, and user experience
- Developed and implemented cybersecurity protocols for federal campaign, reducing breach risks by 30% compared to similar campaigns
- Trained 10-40 staff and volunteers on secure practices including phishing prevention, secure communications, and device security
- Provided hands-on IT support managing campaign technology tools and coordinating technical needs across departments
- Developed and maintained custom websites for small businesses using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, jQuery
- Implemented SEO strategies (keyword optimization, link building, performance improvements) driving 300% average traffic increase
- Managed client relationships, gathered requirements, and delivered tailored solutions across multiple platforms
- Co-owned and operated independent coffeehouse managing P&L, staffing, inventory, vendor relations, and customer service
- Recruited, trained, and supervised team while establishing operational procedures and maintaining service quality
- Designed and maintained company website, managed digital presence and online marketing campaigns
- Oversaw supply chain, cost control, and resource allocation for 6-year operation
Get in Touch
I'm seeking roles where technical knowledge and clear communication both matter. If you're looking for someone who can explain complex security concepts, develop training programs, or work with teams across technical levels, let's talk.
What I'm Looking For
- Security Awareness Training - Developing and delivering security training programs for non-technical staff
- Technical Instruction - Teaching cybersecurity, development, or cloud technologies to adult learners
- Curriculum Development - Creating educational content and training materials for technical topics
- Developer Education - Technical writing, documentation, developer relations, or similar roles
- Security Roles with Training Responsibilities - Security engineer, analyst, or implementation roles that include team training or awareness programs
The best way to connect professionally is through LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jerry-bennett
Send a Message
I typically respond within 24 hours.