Christopher Watkins

Christopher Watkins started their work experience in 2013 as a Computer Operator intern at Capitol Federal® Savings Bank. Christopher then went on to become an LAN/Network Administrator intern, where they configured, deployed, and maintained routers, switches, and servers, as well as installed and maintained Cisco Digital Media Players and IP phones. From 2017 to 2019, Watkins worked as a Network Administrator at the same company.

In 2019, Watkins joined Stormont Vail Health as a Cyber Security Engineer 4, where they worked until 2022. Christopher then moved on to work as a Cyber Security Architect 3 at ECU Health from 2022 to 2023. Currently, Watkins works as a Senior Network Security Engineer - Network and Cloud Security at Norlem.

Additionally, Watkins has served in the Kansas Air National Guard since 2014 as a KC - 135 Aircraft Hydraulics Specialist, where they troubleshoot, repairs, inspects, and installs hydraulic systems and components for the aircraft fleet. Christopher also collaborates with other specialist departments to maintain a fully mission-capable fleet.

Christopher Watkins has a strong education background in the field of technology and cybersecurity. Christopher earned a Master of Management Information Systems degree with a specialization in Cybersecurity from Friends University, completing their studies from 2018 to 2020. Prior to that, they obtained a Bachelor of Applied Studies degree in Technology Administration from Washburn University, where they studied from 2013 to 2018. Additionally, Christopher holds an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree in Computer Repair and Networking, which they attained from Washburn University between 2013 and 2016.

In addition to their formal education, Christopher has pursued various certifications to enhance their professional expertise. Christopher obtained the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification from (ISC)² in April 2021. In February 2020, they earned the CompTIA Network+ certification from CompTIA, and in February 2019, they successfully obtained the Security+ certification, also from CompTIA. Furthermore, Christopher holds a Cisco Certified Network Associate certification, which they acquired from Cisco in July 2018.