Learn to protect information through cybersecurity training that blends theory and practice. You’ll gain tools to safeguard networks and prevent digital threats.
Start your cybersecurity career and prepare for a new job in the growing field. Learn the skills for cybersecurity roles like Engineer and Analyst, and gain in-demand technical skills including Python programming, computer networking, Linux, and cloud computing in AWS.
Learn how to build and secure an enterprise-level cloud environment with AWS. Gain practical experience and expert knowledge on AWS security, including SOC operations and the benefits of a well-architected framework in the cloud.
Get a comprehensive understanding of computer communication and security systems, including network models, authentication, authorization, admin roles, foundational cybersecurity concepts, Linux, Python, and networking protocols.
Because digital technology has become a fundamental part of life everywhere around the world, cybersecurity plays an essential role in protecting data for people, companies, infrastructures, and governments. Embarking on training for a career in cybersecurity may certainly be difficult, but it should prove rewarding for anyone who has a curiosity about technology and enjoys solving complex problems while protecting data. Think of working in cybersecurity as detective work for preventing and solving issues that violate other people’s privacy and well-being. Training in cybersecurity can lead to a challenging and worthwhile career in technology.
Today, everyone depends on the internet not only for communicating but for all types of business and finance, like banking, paying for things, and getting paid. However, some have decided that invading the online privacy and accounts of other people and companies is a good way to profit illegally. Because of this, cybersecurity has become a vital part of day-to-day life for keeping communication, information, and financial transactions safe. Therefore, training for a career in cybersecurity could pave the way to securing a future for people who have programming skills and curiosity about solving problems.
Along with an increase in cloud-based technologies, installing antivirus software or firewalls is no longer enough to protect personal data from potential cyberattacks. In order to keep the cloud and computer networks safe, there has been an increased need for cybersecurity professionals. Anyone with skills in technology can take steps to train to become a part of this growing career trend.
Training to gain cybersecurity expertise can lead to finding better opportunities for working with ever-evolving technology in today’s competitive labor market. This includes preparing for security certifications like CompTIA Security+, which is a globally recognized certification that authenticates the basic skills needed to qualify for a career in IT security. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs related to cybersecurity are projected to increase by 32 percent between 2022 and 2032 due to an accelerated demand created by rising and constant threats to computer network security.
As society becomes increasingly more dependent on technology in every aspect of living for communicating, purchasing, and working, threats from offenders seeking to take advantage of access to the information available through technology have emerged. However, with adversity comes opportunity, which in this case would be that the increase in cyberattacks has led to career opportunities for becoming Cybersecurity Analysts, Security Engineers, and IT Specialists tasked with protecting data, servers, and systems from hackers. While computer technology, smartphones, and streaming have provided convenience, this technology has also exposed users to a higher likelihood of hackers, online blackmailers, and identity thieves gaining easier access to their information. Training for skills related to information security can pave a career path that is currently in high demand through gaining expertise in cybersecurity.
The threats of cyberattack and unauthorized access have led to a greater need for people who are capable of protecting data and computer systems from exposure or exploitation. And because the dependence on digital and online technology will likely increase instead of diminishing, the need for protecting the integrity of access to data will require more people who are qualified to provide that protection. This has led to the continued growth of employment opportunities in technology, which includes a demand for individuals who have professional training in cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity is a necessity in nearly every area of life because technology has become the main way people do everything nowadays. Everywhere, from academic institutions to the financial industries to healthcare providers to government agencies, depends on technology as each faces threats to computer networks, which require stringent data monitoring. These types of organizations face cyberattacks from several directions, including email attacks, stolen passwords, malware, and identity theft.
Therefore, training in skills for working in cybersecurity can open up paths to several careers. However, skills in cybersecurity are not a narrow, singular concept. Because the threat of cyberattacks can vary, anyone working in cybersecurity must have knowledge in several areas of technology and programming. Listed below are a few areas of expertise that can fortify a career in cybersecurity.
Training in Python is an essential skill for a career related to cybersecurity. Knowledge in the Python programming language allows Cybersecurity Analysts to be able to recognize and efficiently remedy malware involved in cyberattacks. Learning Python can also provide skills for developing apps, analyzing and visualizing data, and working in web development for a variety of careers related to technology. Training in Python programming provides the technical, strategic, and analytical skills needed for working in cybersecurity. Python is a simple programming language that can be learned quickly, which makes it convenient for startup technology companies that thrive on designing, producing, and promoting products quickly to jump right into competing in today’s wildly competitive digital marketplace.
Banking and financial services apply data science to several areas of technology, including cybersecurity. Banks use data science in making decisions with loan approvals, detecting fraud, recognizing cyberattacks, and marketing to targeted customers. Data science is important in online lending for making data-driven decisions based on FICO scores and credit bureau data. Data science helps banks and lending institutions with sifting through volumes of transaction data as well as flagging unusual activities involving fraud. Applying data science includes cybersecurity for handling unusual activities that could be online security threats. As part of data science, machine learning algorithms help with scrutinizing network traffic with suspicious patterns in determining if files on a computer network are moving around in an abnormal manner. Companies are also able to use data science in predictive analytics and machine learning for combing through research reports, client data, and marketing data for understanding client information, market events, and business trends.
For anyone considering a career in cybersecurity, enrolling in coding courses can provide immersive training that prepares new learners for work related to web development, app development, and cybersecurity. For example, enrolling in a coding bootcamp provides an accelerated option that can get anyone interested in cybersecurity ready for working in different areas of programming, developing skills over a shorter timeframe than college courses could provide. Coding is a special skill that can open paths to a variety of careers, including cybersecurity, where knowledge of coding is absolutely essential. Knowledge of coding provides the key to unlocking the mechanisms behind how websites operate.
As the world continues to increasingly embrace digital technology, people and organizations have become more and more dependent on cloud storage as a convenient means for storing data and files. This has led to greater challenges for cybersecurity in keeping the information stored in clouds from being breached, held for ransom, or blackmailed. Even as technology advances to make people’s lives easier, so have complex threats to securing the data made available through those advances. With cloud computing, cybersecurity is a crucial aspect of protecting the data contained in clouds, which means that people and companies must invest in cloud security for managing everything from personal files to customer data. Gaining AWS (Amazon Web Services) certification for expertise in cloud computing can provide career options in cybersecurity.
Digital forensics involves analyzing computer infrastructures for assessing and developing strategies with security protocols. This includes identifying, acquiring, processing, analyzing, and reporting on an organization’s stored data for assessing and protecting against potential security threats. Digital forensics is also essential for collecting and analyzing electronic evidence from computers, smartphones, cloud storage, and email following a cyberattack. Digital forensics includes security monitoring, identifying potential threats, investigating potential threats, and escalating alerts as a SOC (Security Operations Center) Analyst whose role involves preventing data breaches. The procedures applied in digital forensics are admissible in court, which means that the evidence collected can be used in criminal prosecutions of cyberattacks or illegal breaches where the offender has been discovered and apprehended.
Cybersecurity is among the most in-demand areas of technology for finding work. While career opportunities for becoming Cybersecurity Analysts or IT Security Specialists are abundant, many people shy away from the necessary training for these careers under the impression that the education will be difficult. Because of the various areas involved with cybersecurity, which can include learning Python programming, computer coding, or cloud security, training can indeed be pretty demanding or difficult, but ultimately worth the effort when considering the results may lead to a rewarding career. Whether training in cybersecurity proves to be difficult will depend on a person’s experience, aptitude, and interest in technology. A crucial element for working in cybersecurity would be having an interest in solving problems, since preventing or fixing cyberattacks requires putting together puzzles or being able to think like a hacker. So, while learning the technical skills is vital in cybersecurity and may be intimidating, those skills are only part of the skill set.
Among the challenges with training in cybersecurity might be choosing which area of technology to focus on. Curiosity with technology is an important aspect for working in cybersecurity since the responsibilities involve preventing as well as solving problems with cyberattacks. Another challenge may be with anticipating the way that someone might attempt a cyberattack: email, malware, phishing, or other methods for gaining unauthorized access to an organization’s computer network. While possessing skills in coding and programming languages are certainly assets with cybersecurity, installing antivirus software, training staff members who have access to a system in being able to recognize security threats, and updating software are all part of the job.
While there are several educational paths available to train for a career in cybersecurity, deciding on how and where to start may be difficult. The best place to start would be with understanding the intended vocation and the skills required for the work. Cybersecurity involves gaining knowledge in the fundamentals of network security as well as skills for not only preventing cyberattacks but responding quickly and appropriately. The time it may take for learning about cybersecurity can vary widely depending on several factors that include an individual’s current knowledge and experience, learning goals, and the type of education a person decides on. It must be noted that cybersecurity is a dynamic and demanding field that requires routinely updating skills and continuously learning new areas related to network security in the ever-changing landscape of technology and threats to personal, financial, and defense security.
Learning about cybersecurity requires knowledge in several areas related to technology to understand how hackers take advantage of computer networks. The basic skills required for working in cybersecurity include skills with Python programming, computer coding, and data science. Additionally, possessing an understanding of computer networking is essential for working in cybersecurity since any attempt at stealing data or breaching computer systems begins with accessing information by going through a network illegally. A certification in computer networking can be acquired with CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA. Another area of training would be learning cloud security, which involves gaining knowledge in cloud computing through AWS for advanced networking, data analytics, machine learning, and cybersecurity. AWS is a cloud provider owned by Amazon that focuses on infrastructure and emerging technologies with an emphasis on machine learning, data analytics, and online security.
With the prevalence of technology playing a role in nearly every aspect of life nowadays, possessing skills related to cybersecurity is relevant for working in nearly every industry. Training in cybersecurity provides opportunities for employment in an in-demand line of work for protecting technology. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, opportunities for working in careers like Information Security Analyst are expected to grow by 32 percent between 2022 and 2032. Since nearly every aspect of life today involves some interaction with technology, it should go without saying that every industry requires some level of protection with cybersecurity. However, the need for cybersecurity in some industries is greater than in others. Listed below are various industries where the need for protecting against hackers and cyberattacks is critical.
Banking and financial services apply data science to several areas related to cybersecurity, including fraud protection and monitoring account activities. Banks use data science to make decisions on loan approvals, detect fraud, recognize cyberattacks, and target marketing efforts. Data science is also important for online lenders in making data-driven decisions based on FICO scores and credit bureau data. Institutions like Capital One, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac in the D.C. area rely heavily on cybersecurity to protect customer information and prevent breaches. Data science helps these organizations sift through vast transaction data and flag unusual activities. Machine learning algorithms, for example, analyze network traffic to detect suspicious patterns and determine if files or data are being accessed or moved abnormally.
Municipal, state, and federal government agencies face constant threats from cyberattacks, including hackers trying to access sensitive data, disrupt services, or damage infrastructure. Agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security, the NSA, and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in Washington, D.C., actively hire cybersecurity analysts and security engineers to safeguard computer networks. Professionals in these roles implement procedures for encrypting data, protecting passwords, monitoring network activity, and training staff to prevent malicious attacks. Protecting essential government data and operations is critical, as successful attacks could compromise public services, sensitive information, and national security.
Healthcare remains a top target for cyberattacks, making cybersecurity training essential. Hospitals and healthcare providers must protect patient records, medical devices, and operational systems from ransomware, data breaches, and other attacks. In D.C., organizations like MedStar Health, Children’s National Hospital, and the Inova Health System rely on cybersecurity professionals to safeguard sensitive medical data and ensure operational continuity. Effective cybersecurity not only protects patient privacy but also prevents costly disruptions to medical care, demonstrating that cybersecurity is truly a matter of life and death in the healthcare sector.
Many cyberattacks involve fraud and identity theft from customers and employees, which can be solved by utilizing cybersecurity. Online retailers and ecommerce businesses must protect data such as credit card numbers, passwords, logins, bank account information, and social security numbers from hackers. It is vital that retailers properly secure their computer systems by implementing effective encryption measures along with multi-level authentication that can help in preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Cybersecurity is critical for protecting the insurance industry, which is responsible for handling vast amounts of sensitive personal and financial data. Protecting this information from hackers and cyberattacks is critical for insurance companies in maintaining trust with policyholders and clients. Companies like Geico, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, and The Hartford in the D.C. region rely on cybersecurity experts depend on cybersecurity to protect customer information against data breaches. Security Analysts who have knowledge in data science can help insurance companies with developing strategies for protecting customer data, analyzing the risk of attack, and implementing fraud protection systems.
Insurers often apply data science in cybersecurity, fraud detection, and customer segmentation. Hackers frequently attempt unauthorized access to confidential data to steal identities, commit financial fraud, or disrupt services and operations, which ends up costing organizations money and trust. Because of this, insurance companies must take steps by hiring IT Security Specialists and other cybersecurity professionals with skills in procedures for helping with prevention and response to network security threats, which include routine security audits, installing advanced threat detection systems, and conducting training on best practices with cybersecurity for company staff.
Cybersecurity professionals play an important role in protecting the energy industry from cyberattacks and ransomware. A significant number of cyberattacks each year target the energy industry, often with the objective of disrupting the infrastructure. Because of this, the energy industry must remain on high alert and take steps to protect against or counter these threats with a greater emphasis on cybersecurity. These steps include coordinating with the U.S. Department of Energy, along with hiring professionals whose job is to anticipate and respond to cyberattacks.
Utility providers throughout the country have to take greater measures with cybersecurity, along with maintaining surveillance on vulnerable entry points that invite hackers who attempt to sabotage or disrupt operations.
Skills in cybersecurity can lead to opportunities for a rewarding career in technology. The greater need for cybersecurity protection results from the increased threats to information for people and companies due to the world’s ever-increasing dependence on the internet, which has become both a blessing and a burden. People with training in cybersecurity not only help with protecting computer network systems and individual computer users from cyberattacks, but also advise management and staff of organizations on best practices with email for recognizing phishing attempts. And because so many businesses maintain sensitive information on customers, clients, and patients, there has to be a strong emphasis on protecting that data. Industries including financial services, healthcare, government agencies, and retailers need cybersecurity professionals who can provide that protection. Here are a few of the professions for people who have skills related to cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems from cyberattacks. The annual salary for this position can be between $81,000 and $166,000. The responsibilities for working as a Cybersecurity Analyst include implementing procedures for preventing, detecting, and analyzing potential threats from cyberattacks, ransomware, and hackers. A Cybersecurity Analyst must watch out for abnormal activities, attempted intrusions, and unusual user behaviors, as well as supervise permissions and upgrade network security systems. This job also requires writing reports and training staff members on best practices for recognizing email and phishing attacks.
Training in cybersecurity can open up opportunities for employment as a Security Engineer whose responsibilities emphasize protecting an organization’s computer network systems and digital assets from cyberattacks. Security Engineers can earn a salary ranging from $90,000 to $194,000 a year in Washington, D.C., with responsibilities for monitoring network systems, creating security patches, and developing countermeasures that anticipate security breaches. In this capacity, a Security Engineer also conducts penetration testing to determine a computer network system’s vulnerability. Responsibilities also include creating disaster recovery plans to help a company regain its footing following a cyberattack.
Security Analysts protect computer networking systems from a variety of threats. The work involves looking for vulnerabilities within a system, recommending an appropriate security response for an organization, and compiling a report on the intrusion. In Washington, D.C., a Security Analyst can make between $73,000 and $169,000 a year with responsibilities for protecting a company from potential cyberattacks. Security Analysts are typically tasked with training an organization’s management and staff on security procedures. A Security Analyst is also responsible for developing recovery plans in the aftermath of a cyberattack to get a company back to functioning normally.
An IT Security Specialist can earn from $81,000 to $175,000 annually in Washington, D.C., with job responsibilities for protecting a company’s computer network system from internal and external threats. IT Security Specialists must routinely check for abnormal network activities, write incident reports, and develop defenses for countering potential cyberattacks. Their responsibility also includes counseling organizations on how to reduce their risk of falling victim to cyberattacks or ransomware.
This live online course can be taken from anywhere.
This bootcamp focuses on training participants in skills for working in cybersecurity, which includes learning about Python programming, computer networking, Linux distributions, and AWS for knowledge about cloud computing and cloud security.
Students will explore the world of cybersecurity, which is among the growing fields for finding a career in technology. Lessons will cover learning the tools and tactics for protecting computer networking systems, companies, and individuals against cyberattacks. Training includes learning about endpoint protection and penetration testing.
Upon completing this program, students will have skills for becoming Security Engineers or Cybersecurity Analysts, as well as being prepared for cybersecurity-related certification exams.
This program offers additional 1-on-1 mentoring outside of class as well as an opportunity to retake the course for free within one year.
This live online course can be taken from anywhere in the world.
This certificate program provides training for individuals interested in becoming Data Scientists or Cybersecurity Analysts through learning skills, including Python and SQL, along with training in machine learning algorithms. Lessons include learning how to evaluate the performance of machine learning models. Upon completing this certificate program, students will be able to code using Python to better handle issues related to databases and computer networks, including cybersecurity.
Students enrolling in this program should be comfortable with using computers.
This program offers additional 1-on-1 mentoring outside of class as well as an opportunity to retake the course for free within one year.
This live online course can be taken from anywhere.
Students will learn how to use Python for automating security processes, executing system administrative tasks, and solving common IT problems while also gaining an understanding of fundamental security protocols and methodologies associated with cybersecurity. This program trains individuals in using Python to provide solutions for protecting computer networking systems from cyberattacks.
Students must have knowledge equal to the training received from the Noble Desktop courses Python Programming Bootcamp, Linux Operating Systems and Bash Scripting, and Python for Network Security. This course can be taken as part of the Cybersecurity Bootcamp offered by Noble Desktop.
This program offers additional 1-on-1 mentoring outside of class as well as an opportunity for retaking the course for free within one year.
This live online course can be taken from anywhere on the planet.
This certificate program divides training into front-end development with lessons on HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React, along with training focused on the back-end of websites using Python, Django, and Node.js. The main aim of this program is to help students gain pivotal skills for securing a career in software or web development. Upon completing this certificate program, students will possess knowledge of Git for version control, Flexbox and Grid for layouts, and MongoDB for creating data structures to include in a portfolio filled with projects that can help with securing a career in software and web development.
Students enrolling in this program must feel comfortable with using computers. This course offers additional 1-on-1 mentoring outside of class as well as an opportunity to retake the course for free within one year.
With learning new skills, some people may feel more comfortable in a face-to-face setting inside a classroom where they can ask an instructor questions or interact with classmates within the same space, especially when demonstrating techniques. For those individuals, there are schools in Washington, D.C., as well as nearby Baltimore and Virginia, for in-person training in cybersecurity. This includes in-person cybersecurity courses, bootcamps, and certificate programs that offer an immersive environment for gaining skills from experts in the industry. Certificate training can help with preparing to pass cybersecurity-related certification exams, including CompTIA Security+, which is a global certification that authenticates the basic skills needed to qualify for a career in IT security.
While many people prefer in-person training, some are simply unable to schedule or get to another location to attend classes in-person due to work or family obligations. For those individuals, there are various live online training courses that allow them to train for new skills from the comfort of home. Virtual learning provides people with the same benefits as an in-person class or bootcamp with real-time interaction and hands-on instruction without having to go anywhere.
Corporate training is a great way to provide your company’s staff with the technical skills needed for protecting your computer network from online threats. Noble Desktop offers corporate cybersecurity training that can be conducted onsite at your office or live online through a teleconferencing platform like Zoom. Your company also has the option to purchase vouchers at a discount for Noble Desktop’s public enrollment cybersecurity courses.
If you have decided to improve your staff’s technical skills for being able to counter cyberattacks, contact corporate@nobledesktop.com for more information or to schedule a free consultation.
As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a hub for government, public service, and major organizations, which means there’s ample opportunity for professional development. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge in the field of tech, data, business, or design, you can explore training options available to both individuals and federal professionals. Classes are right in the heart of the city, offering knowledgeable instructors with decades of combined training and a wide range of specializations. From their real-world experience in the field, these instructors provide valuable insights that help students get comfortable while learning the material. Not to mention, the skills they develop in the classroom are practical and transferable, meaning students can put their newfound knowledge right to work.
Training with Noble Desktop’s team is easy with the modern facilities located at 600 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C., 20024. It’s mere steps away from L’Enfant Plaza and offers an array of benefits, like a professional yet welcoming environment and a modern workspace. Getting there from anywhere in D.C. is straightforward, whether by Metro, bus, or car. L’Enfant Plaza is served by multiple Metro lines, and there are several bus routes that stop nearby. Those driving can also access parking garages that are easily within walking distance.
Cybersecurity is essential in Washington, D.C., where government agencies and contractors rely on secure systems and strong risk-mitigation practices. With this, students at Noble Desktop will have an opportunity to learn core defensive strategies and modern security tools from instructors who have worked directly with sensitive federal and enterprise environments. Learning at this school also offers a wide range of professional development opportunities, with classes led by expert instructors who can help you acquire skills that get you ready for the real world.
Brian is an educator and training leader passionate about helping professionals grow in fields like project management and AI. He designs adaptive learning programs that combine instructor-led sessions, live online experiences, and self-paced study, making training practical and within reach for anyone. Brian’s work also centers heavily around AI integration, particularly in training situations to show organizations how easy it can be applied to the workplace, showing ways to tackle real-world problems, enhance leadership, streamline projects, and support better decision-making. Beyond teaching, he has also developed curricula and led training on a massive scale. Brian’s blend of talents and interests makes him well-positioned to train others and help them navigate the complexities of the subject matter.
With more than 25 years of experience, Clarissa is a seasoned corporate trainer, Project Manager, and Business Consultant and has helped professionals and organizations alike achieve tangible results around the world. Her work has taken her to amazing places around the world, from China to Africa, training over 10,000 participants in leadership, project management, business analysis, and emerging technologies. Clarissa has worked with teams at NASA, Microsoft, Citibank, and FEMA, just to name a few, and is known for designing interactive yet practical sessions where her listeners can apply their skills immediately. At Graduate School USA, she played a pivotal role and contributed to numerous programs, including the Managing for Results course. She’s a quality instructor, focusing on subjects like project management, AI, and even Adobe, and has a heavy commitment to professionalism, innovation, and student success.
Michele’s professional record in Human Resources, organizational development, and leadership training has been acquired over 25 years in the field. She is a Business Strategist and HR innovator who has helped public, private, federal, and higher education organizations on their path to success. In particular, Michele excels in organizational assessment, project and performance management, workforce development, change management, conflict resolution, and AI initiatives. She prides herself on guiding individuals to leverage their strengths while fulfilling their professional lives. Her consulting work includes leading the DC Courts HR Division’s Five-Year Strategic Plan and Workforce Development Program, “Fulfilling Our Future.” She’s also held senior executive positions at Howard University, the Air Line Pilots Association, and Executive Transitions International. She’s currently working as an adjunct faculty at Graduate School USA and Anne Arundel Community College.
Alan Zucker brings real-world expertise from both the federal government and Fortune 100 companies to the classroom. With more than 25 years of professional work in project management, he makes for an ideal instructor. He has managed the project execution organization of 175 professionals, led high-visibility strategic initiatives, and delivered thousands of successful projects. His education began at George Washington University, where he earned his Bachelor’s, before progressing to earn a Master's in Economics from the University of Maryland. Moreover, he holds a wide variety of certifications, such as the Project Management Professional Certification (PMP), PMI-ACP, Disciplined Agile Coach, SAFe Program Consultant, Certified Scrum Professional, and Agile Leadership Academy Trainer. Alan is an active member of the project management community, having served as a keynote speaker, frequent industry commentator, and author of nearly 150 articles on project management.
Tashea is a Human Resources Executive and Federal Consultant, holding over 23 years of experience across multiple federal agencies, including the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Treasury, State, and Health and Human Services. Known for her ability to strategize and take the lead, Tahsea has transformed HR policies to align with mission strategies and outcomes, influencing government-wide procedures such as onboarding and pay equity. Tashea is a staunch advocate for ethical leadership, inclusivity, and organizational success. In addition, she prides herself on her authenticity and purpose-driven spirit, which translates into her work as an educator as well. In addition to teaching subjects like AI. She’s an author and entrepreneur, and is always looking for ways to help organizations and individuals alike.
With a strong foundation in federal human resources management and legal counseling, Charles is a highly knowledgeable Employee and Labor Relations Consultant in Washington, D.C. He began his education at Loyola University, earning his B.A. in Business Administration and Political Science, before graduating from the University of Baltimore School of Law. Throughout his career, Charles has guided agencies through complex HR and labor-related challenges, managed HR programs, and represented organizations in legal proceedings. He has also designed and delivered specialized training in human resources, project management, and marketing. Charles’ professional background has led to numerous accolades and awards, showcasing his impact in the field.
Dr. David E. McCullin, better known as Dr. Mac, specializes in strategic communication, homeland security, data analytics, and accurate decision-making. Prior to his work at Graduate School USA, Dr. Mac obtained his Bachelor’s in Engineering, his Master’s in National Security and Strategic Studies, and a Doctorate in Management of Complex Adaptive Systems. He served 24 years in the U.S. Army, including 13 in Special Operations. He later worked at the Department of Homeland Security as an Intelligence and Infrastructure Security Analyst for nearly a decade. Through his education and solid professional career, he has been able to teach students a variety of important skills and has also developed innovative learning tools and games that help improve decision-making and analytical thinking skills.
As a part-time instructor at Graduate School USA for over 15 years, Natalya’s expertise cannot go unnoticed. She’s an educator and has developed curricula for the school, including the Change Management Workshops and several project management courses. Not to mention, she’s also served as a learning coach, facilitator, and instructor for government leadership programs and has developed the Define and Achieve Your Goals Process. Natalya earned her Master’s in Project Management and her Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification, making her a well-qualified and effective educator, project manager, coach, and consultant.
Alan is a retired combat veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Navy with over 30 years of experience in federal and commercial budgeting, auditing, programming, operations, supply chain management, and IT acquisitions. He holds an MBA from George Washington University and a Teaching Certification from Harvard’s Bok Center for Teaching and Learning. Throughout his career across federal, state, and local government agencies, Alan has worked for numerous departments, such as the Department of State and Defense, as well as the Office of the Mayor of D.C. Alan is also an accomplished consultant and business strategist, having aided in the development of organizational projects at Lockheed Martin and PwC, to name a few. His background and lengthy career make him an ideal instructor for those looking to learn more about finance, accounting, and project management.
As a skilled instructor and business leader, Derk Mattocks possesses the skills and career experience to bolster his credibility. He gained his B.S. in Organization Management from Nyack College and his Master’s in Leadership and Military Installation Management, as well as an MBA in Financial Management and Analysis from the University of Maryland. He is a licensed Certified Advanced Professional Business Coach and trained mediator, with the certification to facilitate the “Five Practices of Leadership” workshops. Derk has also served as a Senior Advisor and Instructor for the U.S. Army. Overall, he has the credentials to serve as an accomplished and well-versed instructor, often covering topics related to project management and marketing.
Melanie is a federal acquisition and contracting expert with over 30 years of professional experience in Washington, D.C., spanning both government and education sectors. She has served as the Vice President of Acquisition Policy at SAIC and as the Managing Editor of the Federal Contracts Report at Bloomberg BNA. She’s currently an instructor at Graduate School USA, often teaching classes related to the marketing realm. She’s a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) and a Fellow of the National Contract Management Association, positioning her as a person with incredible leadership skills and knowledge of her field. She earned her MBA from Georgetown University and is known as a clear, trusted instructor who consistently challenges students to take their skills to the next level.