JACOB ASARE
Woodbridge, VA | 571-778-2840 | asarejayke@gmail.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-asare | https://sites.wp.odu.edu/jacobasare/
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Security professional transitioning from 13+ years in physical security operations to cybersecurity, bringing direct experience in incident detection, investigation, documentation, and escalation. CompTIA Security+ certified with hands-on lab experience in EDR concepts, computer forensics, intrusion detection, network traffic analysis (Wireshark, Nmap), Python scripting, and Linux command-line operations through Old Dominion University coursework, TryHackMe, Let’s Defend, and Hack The Box. Proven ability to monitor systems for anomalies, validate and triage alerts, document findings clearly for technical and non-technical stakeholders, and drive incidents to resolution under time-sensitive conditions. Currently pursuing a B.S. in Cybersecurity (3.97 GPA, expected Fall 2026). Seeking to apply a strong foundation in security monitoring, alert triage, and incident response to an EDR-focused Alert Monitoring Analyst role.
CORE COMPETENCIES
EDR Alert Triage & Investigation • Incident Response & Remediation • Computer Forensics • Intrusion Detection • Network Traffic Analysis (Wireshark, Nmap) • Python Scripting • Linux & Windows PowerShell • Security Documentation & Playbooks • Microsoft Sentinel (Familiar) • Microsoft Azure (Familiar) • Access Control & Log Analysis • Stakeholder Communication • Capture the Flag (CTF) Exercises
TECHNICAL SKILLS
- Security Tools & Concepts: Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Intrusion Detection Systems, Computer Forensics, Security Information and Event Management (Microsoft Sentinel – familiar), Vulnerability Analysis
- Networking & Analysis: Wireshark, Nmap, Network Traffic Analysis, TCP/IP Fundamentals
- Scripting & Platforms: Python, Windows PowerShell, Linux Command Line, GitHub, Microsoft Azure (familiar)
- Cloud & Hands-On Practice: TryHackMe, Hack The Box, Let’s Defend, Capture the Flag (CTF) Labs
- Certifications: CompTIA Security+
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Security Shift Supervisor 2011 – 2024
Allied Universal Security Protection Service | National Academy of Science (NAS), Washington DC.
- Monitored security alarms and access control logs in real time, investigating invalid or anomalous access events and recommending corrective action, directly analogous to triaging and validating security alerts for true/false positive determination.
- Documented detailed, structured incident reports for every event, ensuring accurate communication of findings to management and supporting after-action review, mirroring the documentation rigor required for security playbooks and incident tickets.
- Supervised a security team responsible for protecting corporate assets, coordinating response and remediation actions across shifts and ensuring consistent handoff of open issues.
- Identified and escalated physical vulnerabilities (e.g., water leaks, structural hazards) before they caused damage, preventing losses to assets valued at over $100M, demonstrating proactive risk identification and impact assessment.
- Adjusted standard operating procedures under pressure to protect a high-profile executive during a sensitive event, reflecting sound judgment in high-stakes, time-critical decision-making.
Dispatcher / Security Officer 2007 – 2011
Securitas Security Services | Crystal City, VA
- Detected, documented, and reported a wanted suspect to law enforcement, resulting in successful apprehension — demonstrating attentiveness to detail and accurate incident reporting under time pressure.
- Identified and reported facility water leaks early, minimizing operational downtime and asset damage through proactive monitoring.
- Coordinated emergency response with Fire, Police, and Security departments, maintaining clear communication across multiple stakeholders during active incidents.
- Maintained organized records and filed all incident reports for future reference and audit, reinforcing strong documentation habits.
- Recognized as Officer of the Month and Officer of the Year for consistent performance and reliability.
Middle School Mathematics Teacher 2003 – 2006
Ghana Education Service (GES) | Ghana
- Planned and delivered structured daily lessons aligned to curriculum standards, building foundational analytical and problem-solving skills directly transferable to technical troubleshooting.
- Conducted ongoing assessments and tracked progress through detailed reporting, reinforcing strengths in data tracking and clear written communication.
- Recognized as Best Mathematics Teacher (2004) for excellence in instruction and measurable student achievement.
EDUCATION
Old Dominion University — Norfolk, VA Expected Fall 2026
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — GPA: 3.97 Cumulative
University of Cape Coast — Ghana 2003
Post-Secondary Teacher’s Certificate “A”, Mathematics
CERTIFICATIONS
- CompTIA Security+
HANDS-ON LABS & PROJECTS
- Developed a Python program implementing S-DES (Simplified Data Encryption Standard) encryption and decryption, including an SVG diagram visualizing the algorithm and a recorded walkthrough explaining the system workflow.
- Completed Old Dominion University labs in computer forensic analysis, Linux scripting, Windows PowerShell, Wireshark network analysis, Nmap scanning, and Capture the Flag exercises.
- Practiced offensive and defensive security skills through self-directed labs on TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and Let’s Defend.
- Gained familiarity with Microsoft Azure and Microsoft Sentinel through coursework and independent study.
ADDITIONAL SKILLS
Communication • Interpersonal Relationship Skills • Patience • Customer Service • Documentation • Problem Solving • Adaptability • Team Collaboration • Instruction Following • Attention to Detail • Time Management • Leadership