
Falls Church, VA
brandon bustamante
1x
Finalist1x
Winner
brandon bustamante
1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
Hello, I’m Brandon Bustamante, an Information Technology graduate from Florida International University and an incoming Master’s student at George Mason University, where I will be pursuing Applied Information Technology with a concentration in Cyber Security. I currently work at MITRE as a Cyber Security Engineer, where I have gained hands-on experience in secure systems, software development, encryption, documentation, and cybersecurity-focused engineering.
My background includes cloud platforms, scripting, databases, identity and access management, and secure system design. I have experience with Python, Java, SQL, Docker, AWS, Microsoft Azure, Oracle Cloud, Git/GitLab, REST APIs, Linux, and Windows. I also hold AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certifications.
Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have contributed to projects involving Docker-based deployment, AES encryption, LDAP role-based access control, API integrations, server stress testing, and cloud infrastructure. At MITRE, I have supported secure development efforts by engineering containerized solutions, implementing encryption workflows, collaborating with technical teams, and creating internal developer documentation.
I am passionate about cybersecurity because it combines technical problem-solving, system optimization, and mission-driven impact. As I continue advancing my education and career, I am focused on deepening my expertise in cyber defense, cloud security, and secure software engineering.
Education
Florida International University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
Minors:
- Security Science and Technology
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Security Science and Technology
Career
Dream career field:
Computer Software
Dream career goals:
Cyber security engineer
MITRE2025 – Present1 yearIT Intern
2023 – 2023Swim Instructor
2021 – Present5 years
Sports
Soccer
Intramural2021 – 20221 year
Cybersecurity & The Latinx Community Scholarship
WinnerEver since I can remember, the vast realm of computers and the digital world has held an irresistible allure for me. As a child, I would often find myself engrossed in games, marveling at the intricate virtual landscapes and the sophisticated mechanics that powered them. But, like many life-changing revelations, my path toward cybersecurity came from an unexpected quarter.
While deeply immersed in an online gaming session, I became a victim of a hacking incident. The immediate aftermath was a whirlwind of emotions: shock at the breach, frustration at the intrusion, and above all, an insatiable curiosity about the mysterious world of cyber threats. Instead of deterring me, the experience ignited a burning desire to delve beneath the surface of the digital realm. It dawned on me that the Internet, often taken for granted as a benign tool, harbored hidden dangers at every turn. Yet, it also presented countless opportunities to fortify and innovate, turning threats into challenges to be surmounted.
Choosing cybersecurity as my academic pursuit was no mere chance; it was a conscious decision shaped by personal experiences and an acute awareness of our world's shifting digital landscape. As we navigate the 21st century, our reliance on technology grows, making the role of cybersecurity paramount. From safeguarding personal data to ensuring national security, the stakes have never been higher. Recognizing the critical importance of this field, I committed myself to study, understand, and ultimately contribute to creating a more secure digital future.
Post-graduation, my aspirations are multi-faceted. First and foremost, I aim to be at the forefront of cybersecurity innovations, developing or contributing to solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also user-friendly. I believe that for cybersecurity measures to be truly effective, they must be accessible and comprehensible to the everyday user, not just tech experts. I envision myself collaborating with tech firms, startups, and possibly even governmental bodies to create systems where security and usability coexist harmoniously.
Furthermore, education plays a pivotal role in my future plans. I'm passionate about demystifying cybersecurity for the broader public. Through workshops, seminars, and perhaps even online courses, I hope to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the digital space safely.
In the long run, I also contemplate further academic pursuits in cybersecurity. The field is ever-evolving, with new challenges and threats emerging regularly. Pursuing advanced degrees or specialized certifications would equip me to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring I remain a valuable asset in the continuous battle against cyber threats.
In essence, my journey in cybersecurity, while sparked by a personal incident, is now fueled by a deep-seated commitment to safeguarding our collective digital future.