Jeff Ekel

Experience

• 

  US Navy

  Nov 1995 - Jun 2016

  • Led three teams comprised of military, government and contractor CND (Computer Network Defense) specialists with developing, analyzing and implementing behavioral signatures for the Host Bases Security System (HBSS).• Supervised 84 CND cybersecurity events and deployed to eight geographically dispersed Fleet locations in support of Program Executive Office Command, control, Communications, and Computer (PEO-C4I) directives, increasing overall Cybersecurity Inspection and Certification Program readiness by 25%.• Ensured the Computer and Network Defense Operating System Environment (CND-OSE) was compliant with DISA/FCC directives and recommendations and ensure fleet readiness. • As Vulnerability Remediation Asset Manager (VRAM) I assisted thousands of users with account creations/modifications, updated site/system information, and assisted with troubleshooting issues.• Routinely communicated with SES, FLAG Staff, CAPT, and other senior military and civilian customers on the status of various technical issues related to the Cyber Security realm, in support of CND-OSE and ePO configurations and compliance standards. • Provided on-site engineering guidance and assistance for Program Manager, Warfare (PMW)-130 shipboard products HBSS, Secure Configuration Compliance Validation Initiative (SCCVI), and VRAM. CNDAT events are conducted In agreement with the PMW-130 Fleet Advisory messages.• Supported the In-Service Engineering Activity (ISEA), to successfully provide installation, troubleshooting, and training support for the Assured Compliance Assessment Solution (ACAS) and SuperAgent Distributed Repository (SADR) aboard afloat units worldwide. • Applied configuration upgrades from Computer and Network Defense Operation Environment Suite (CND-OSE) 1.2 to version 1.3• Developed and facilitated Command training for over 210 SPAWAR System Center Pacific members, in power point presentation as well as practical presentation in General Military Training topics. Show less • Managed a 28-member, globally-distributed 24/7 dynamic computer network defense watch team that ensured the integrity of the Navy’s worldwide information networks through the operation and monitoring of over 175 network sensors. • Oversaw compliance tracking, analysis, and reporting for all IT infrastructure systems.• Provided oversight and coordinated all centrally managed enterprise Defensive Cyber Operations (DCO) capabilities in the Navy response to mitigate threat activity targeting Navy networks.• Analyzed and evaluated Navy DCO capabilities for efficiency and deficiencies.• Assessed emerging security events to determine impact and directed implementation of Navy DCO responses and actions.• Primary liaison to United States Cyber Command, National Security Agency, Commander Tenth Fleet and other government agencies ensuring proper flow of information across all areas of DCO.• Coordinated the gathering, analysis, and preservation of evidence to be used in incident analysis and prosecution of computer related crimes and violations. Show less • Led a 5 member team in operationalization, data analysis, signature creation, training and qualification of HBSS CND mission.• Coordinated creation of initial database searches and collection of network intrusion data in support of global cyber threat activity. • Analyzed computer processing unit, file system internals and network security systems.• Analyzed application of operating systems and network protocols.• Implemented sensitive compartmented information procedures.• Analyzed target networks, vulnerability assessments and composition of remote target networks.• Analyzed incidents for intelligence value, suspicious code and adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures.• Analyzed operating system hardware interactions; update classified material, analyze global threat activities from data collected during network intrusion.• Interpreted global threat indications posed by remote network.• Analyzed obfuscated source code and de-conflict network operations. Show less • Coordinated Tip-of-the-Spear operational and logistics support for Commander, Amphibious Squadron two, USS Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, and Marine Expeditionary Unit in delivering optimal readiness to the war fighters in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom through direct support of CND, Information Warfare (IW), and Operational Security (OPSEC). • Managed 41 IT professionals in defense of eight ship networks against attacks, penetration tests and provided training on intrusion and response. • As the CND subject matter expert, I was responsible for network security assessments and policy guidance to provide the best possible defense posture and saved the Navy in excess of millions of dollars in investigation and remediation costs.• Coordinated worldwide CND operations supporting Navy Criminal Investigation Service and The Department of the Navy Chief Information Officer in the planning of 12 Chief of Naval Operations Integrated Vulnerability Assessments. • Led teams on assessments of network security and the implementation of all recommended improvements, and provided executive briefings to Commanding Officers conveying assessment results. • Installed Snort-based network intrusion detection system (IDS) and trained staff in its use and basic manual signature analysis, provided training on the efficient configuration and maintenance of McAfee HBSS and ISS RealSecure network security solutions, when applicable.• Served as the Commander, Amphibious Squadron Two Operations Security (OPSEC) Officer, mentored six OPSEC officer and provided training, planning, and operational support to eight ships.• Received threat data from NCIS Antiterrorism Officer (ATO), Headquarters, Department of the Navy ATO, Pentagon Force Protection Agency (PFPA) ATO, and other ATO/Intelligence Offices and incorporate it in the OPSEC Plans and Operations for ITA. Show less • Directed OPSEC program for six Naval vessels. Designed and maintained comprehensive OPSEC program covering all aspects of physical, computer, communications, personal and emissions security. • Served as the Commander, Amphibious Squadron Two Operations Security (OPSEC) Officer, mentored six OPSEC officer and provided training, planning, and operational support to eight ships.• Received threat data from NCIS Antiterrorism Officer (ATO), Headquarters, Department of the Navy ATO, Pentagon Force Protection Agency (PFPA) ATO, and other ATO/Intelligence Offices and incorporate it in the OPSEC Plans and Operations for ITA. • Principle staff officer and subject matter expert responsible for developing, coordinating, monitoring, and evaluating the status of the OPSEC programs. • Developed recommendations for implementing commands Force Protection Condition (FPCON) levels. • Coordinated with AT and Force Protection Officer for the development of projections of threat organizations and threat systems employment for use in scenarios, models, and training. • Developed, coordinated, and disseminated antiterrorism plans that provide standards, policies Show less • Coordinated worldwide CND operations supporting Navy Criminal Investigation Service and The Department of the Navy Chief Information Officer in the planning of 12 Chief of Naval Operations Integrated Vulnerability Assessments. • Led teams on assessments of network security and the implementation of all recommended improvements, and provided executive briefings to Commanding Officers conveying assessment results. • Evaluated the use of common open ports, protocols, and services and educate staff on their associated vulnerabilities and potential impact. • Installed Snort-based network intrusion detection system (IDS) and trained staff in its use and basic manual signature analysis, provided training on the efficient configuration and maintenance of McAfee HBSS and ISS RealSecure network security solutions, when applicable.• Approved signal intelligence reports.• Assessed strategic impact of tools and techniques on specific targets• Executed computer network operations.• Developed target templates, perform mission management functions, prepare written and oral operational and situational reports• Monitored and deliver internal and external communication.• Coordinated unit embarkations and perform quality control analysis.• Planned, directed, organized, scheduled, and evaluated training programs.• Prepared and reviewed naval correspondence, instructions, and messages.• Reviewed and coordinated work schedules.• Prioritized overall department work.• Provided guidance for on-the-job performance.• Identified and mediated interdepartmental differences, and assisted, reviewed, recommended, and monitored the implementation of policy statements, operational orders and directives. • Provided over 670 hours as an instructor of Information Assurance (IA) and network security best practices for Fleet IT personnel. • Developed and coordinated the commands Professional Military Knowledge program resulting in the advancement in 67 Sailors. Show less • Supported Chief of Naval Operations as overall Navy coordinator for Signal Intelligence and Information Operations (IO).• Performed IO staffing and coordination for Navy Network Warfare Command with Joint Function Component Command-Network Warfare and Navy Information Operations Command field sites directly supporting Joint Computer Network Operations.• Hand selected as a technical expert in the new Cryptologic Technician Networks (CTN) rating, I was sent to evaluate the pilot CTN "A" School course to solidify training methods and content.• Collected and analyzed data on 57K man-hours from 13 commands and coordinated 38 teleconferences during the Navy's development of network attack end-to-end process.• Motivated and led 8 marginally performing Sailor to becoming top performers via intrusive leadership and one-on-one counseling and mentorship.• Managed a budget of $640k in efforts to configure and refurbish the Planning Cell operational space.• Managed a new system procurement, installation and computer account migration for 126 IT specialists.• Attended Information Operations Fundamentals Course.• Subject matter expert in IO doctrine and terminology, including the IO Core Capabilitiesof Military Network Operations as well as Supporting Capabilities and Related Activities. • Expert in tools and products associated with the IO planning process.• Developed IO support plans during a practical exercises and real life operations.• Knowledge of the strategy, concepts, major components and associated methodologies of Information Operations as applied to ground and sea operations. Show less • Exceptional knowledge of JDISS, JWICS, DMS, and AMHS automation systems and SIPR classified network.• Huge knowledge of SCI requirements and security.• Solid understanding of National, DIA, and Navy SCI security regulatory requirements.• Deep knowledge of basic security and fire inspection procedures.• Maintained records and prepare written reports for 3500 Naval Personnel and DOD Civilians.• Good communication and analytical skills.• Maintained applicable SCI directives, regulations, manuals, and guidelines.• Managed SCI personnel according to DOD, NSA, CI.A, regulations.• Provided guidance and assistance for processing EPSQ, SCI position, and eligibility requests.• Conducted SCI security briefings, indoctrinations, and debriefings.• Ensured each subordinate SSO and SSR conducts the self-inspection using an approved checklist.• Investigated SCI security infractions, making recommendations and preparing required reports. Show less • Recruited individuals into the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserve.• Performed as a Navy recruiter, displaying competence in sales, prospecting, paperwork processing, marketing, communications, recruit incentives, Navy benefits, problem solving and basic computer operations.• Led presentations using audiovisual materials, practical exercises, discussion, and lectures which included professional selling skills, sales prospecting, recruit processing, production systems, Navy recruiting and Navy standards. • Possessed expertise in recruiting techniques and knowledge of recruiting textbooks and Navy enlistment programs and policies. • Communicated effectively with prospects, groups and the community. • Possesses a basic knowledge of classification techniques. Show less • Fabricated, assembled, erected, positioned, and join structural members and fabricated sections.• Read shop drawings and sketches. • Use simple hoisting devices; cuts, forms, places, and ties reinforcing steel.• Worked with erection crew as a connector or tagman.• Performed gas cutting, gas welding, and electric arc welding in all positions.• Identified types and uses of electrodes, gas rods, and fluxes for welding, soldering, and brazing.• Identify compressed gas cylinders.• Splice line and wire rope.• Computed safe working load of lines, wire rope, and block and tackle arrangements.• Erected common types of metal and swinging scaffolds.• Identified types and shapes of structural and reinforcing steel.• Identify types of pre-engineered buildings and structures.• Drew simple shop drawings and sketches.• Prepared requisitions.• Welded ferrous/nonferrous metals in all positions, using gas metal arc and gas tungsten arc welding procedures.• Applied methods of controlling metal expansion during welding operations.• Applied field straightening techniques to damaged structural shapes.• Applied principles and methods of cutting, chamfering, and scarfing metal, using carbon arc chamfer-type rod and air arc processes.• Performed gas welding and electric arc welding.• Determined mechanical advantage of block and tackle arrangements.• Determined types and use of drive pins, studs, and powder charges for powder-assisted or powder-actuated tools.• Performed layout and fabrication of simple steel structures for teams and crews.• Rigged wire rope using poured sockets, clips, and related attachments.• Performed operator maintenance on power-actuated (low and high velocity) stud guns and on diesel or gasoline driven air compressors. 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  • Lead Cybersecurity Engineer

    Jun 2013 - Jun 2016

  • Computer Network Defense Watch Officer

    Sept 2012 - Jun 2013

  • Host Bases Security System Project Lead

    Feb 2012 - Sept 2012

  • Computer Network Defense

    Jun 2010 - Feb 2012

  • Operational Secuity Officer

    Jun 2009 - Jun 2010

  • Blue Team Computer Network Defense Manager

    Jun 2007 - Jun 2009

  • Information Operations Planner

    Mar 2005 - Jun 2007

  • Special Security Officer

    May 2003 - Mar 2005

  • Recruiter

    Apr 2000 - May 2003

  • Steelworker

    Nov 1995 - Apr 2000
• 

  Booz Allen Hamilton

  May 2016 - now

  Leading a five-member team in direct support to 5.8 Information Assurance (IA) Technical Authority (TA) developing a Cybersecurity Figure of Merit (CFOM) to provide a method and framework for an objective evaluation of a Program of Record or project regarding cybersecurity adequacy and readiness. Developing a mathematical framework of weighted qualitative and quantitative metrics, expressing an overall effectiveness score in meeting cybersecurity requirements. Utilizing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework, DoD Information Assurance Certification and Accreditation Process (DIACAP)/Risk Management Framework (RMF), IA TA Standards and all current DoD Cybersecurity Policies and Issuance's. Liaise with the client during team meetings, one-on-one’s, and collaborated directly with Cyber SME’s spread throughout SPAWAR PMW’s to provide an accurate and serviceable product. Show less Perform Information Assurance (IA) testing and policy tuning with an emphasis on systems security engineering. •Work with DoD Application Provider (AP) in the development of HBSS policies to prevent system failures once deployed to the US. Naval Fleet. •Support configuration and deployment of HBSS McAfee Agents and Modules.•Liaise with the client during team meetings and one-on-one on the completion of Application Provider testing sessions. •Responsible for providing Monthly Summary Reports to the Project Manager in support to the current contract. Show less

  • Senior Information Security Engineer

    Jun 2016 - now

  • Cybersecurity Engineer

    May 2016 - Jun 2016