Aspiring Cyber Security Specialist

Navigating the World of Cybersecurity

Hello! My name is Zane Merlo, and I am passionate about pursuing a career in cybersecurity. My time spent pursuing projects and time in the classroom allowed me to collect a valuable skill set and a collection of earned certifications under my belt. I am confident in my ability to excel in this field. Feel free to explore my past projects as well as the ones I am currently working on to get a glimpse of my skills and dedication to the field. I believe my background and enthusiasm makes me a strong candidate to join your team.

What I’m working on

CompTIA Security+

I am currently studying to take the CompTIA Sec+ exam. The skills that I gain from this course will allow me to be able to work effectively in securing and managing many different systems in the workplace. Some of the skills I will gain upon completion of this course are;...

HackTheBox Hacking Lab

The point of this project is to build virtual machines and connect them to HackTheBox via OpenVPN. Once connected I will have access to an internal HackTheBox local network that hosts many different vulnerable virtual machines that I have to hack into using various methods and tools. My hacking lab...

Projects

Artificial intelligence bot on Telegram

The point of this project was to create a more expedited and personable messaging experience with artificial intelligence while controlling the AIs personality through python code and outputting the message through Telegram. While doing this project I have learned how to format and code in Python. I have also learned...

Desktop pc

I built my very own desktop computer. The components being an AMD Ryzen 7 5700X, TUF Gaming B550-PLUS Wifi 2, Corsair Vengeance 32gb DDR4 DRAM 3200MHz, & Corsair RM750x power supply. The purpose of this Project is to build a hacking lab and a media server. The desktop will allow...

Personal Website

The point of this project is to share my portfolio with prospective employers. What I will post on my website is my resume for anyone to download who is interested, current and already built projects, my personal experiences to show I am capable of many job duties, earned certifications, education,...

Experience

Internship at Federal Radio Pegasus

federal Radio Pegasus, Intern
Aberdeen, MD | June, 2023 - August, 2023

I leveraged my knowledge from coursework in Computer Hardware & Software to seamlessly integrate firmware updates and troubleshoot hardware issues, ensuring systems were equipped with the latest features and security patches. Collaborating with a skilled technician, I gained hands-on experience in coding radios, delving into software development and firmware customization. Applying concepts from Network Security Fundamentals and Routers & Switches, I constructed and troubleshooted RJ45 cables, guaranteeing reliable connectivity in deployed systems. Additionally, I tailored system racks for deployment across multiple Smithsonian museums, showcasing proficiency in hardware assembly and organization. Implementing various system devices such as Power Distribution Units, Cisco Routers and Switches, Transmitters, Receivers, and Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) was integral to the process. My coursework in Database Management honed my organizational skills, enabling meticulous organization and labeling of inventory items. Diligently recording serial numbers and MAC addresses not only refined my attention to detail but also strengthened my organizational abilities. Leveraging these skills, I efficiently sorted out which system devices belonged in each system rack, ensuring seamless operation and optimal efficiency.

Robotics Club

Beacon College, Vice President & Treasurer
Leesburg, FL | August, 2021 - May, 2022

The robotics club was made to challenges student to build a robot that could complete different challenges such as navigating mazes, hauling items from one area to another while various obstructions are in the way, and other fun mini challenges. The robots being built by the students were from pre made kits from either vexrobotics.com or robotc.net. My tenure as Vice President of the robotics club honed my skills in managing hardware and software purchases essential for building, interacting with, and managing robots. Beyond procurement, I also oversaw recruitment efforts and coordinated club activities, fostering proficiency in people management and refining advertising and marketing skills to attract students. Additionally, serving as Treasurer equipped me with accounting expertise and effective communication skills. Representing the club at various levels required ensuring compliance with organizational policies and maintaining meticulous financial records for budget management and representation to entities such as the Student Government Association and educational associations.