Aspiring Red Team Cybersecurity Specialist

Driven by a Passion for Cybersecurity

Hello World! My name is Joshua Barros and I love cybersecurity! If you want some proof, please take at a look at my experiences and projects!

What I’m working on

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Homelab(s)

Psst... hey you! For your ultimate safety, whatever you do; DO NOT click the headline titled Homelab(s). And absolutely, positively, under NO circumstances should you even think about clicking this suspiciously tempting text: HomeLab(s).exe   You’ve been warned. 😏

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Sec+ Certification (Est 2026)

I'm currently taking a military-sponsored course to earn my Security+ certification.  
Company: Radio Operator

Projects

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Java Certification

I have completed the required degree works and officially obtained my Java Certification.  

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CVS Pharmacy Technician Trainee License

I'm currently applying for the Pharmacy Technician Trainee License through CVS.
Company: CVS

Experience

Mcdonalds
Hogan Mcdonalds, DM
Raynham, MA | June, 2019 - March, 2025

  • Updated and configured new menus on the POS system to ensure accurate transactions and efficient service.
  • Provided troubleshooting support for coworkers by assisting with alternative login methods during system failures.
  • Diagnosed and resolved POS and production system outages, implementing effective solutions to restore functionality.
  • Oversee daily operations of a Med-volume restaurant location, managing 35-45 hours per week with $4m+ revenue responsibility
  • I Lead and develop a team of 10+ employees through recruitment, training, and performance management
  • Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintain ServSafe certification
  • Manage financial operations including daily deposits, cash handling procedures
  • Coordinate inventory management, including weekly truck deliveries and stock rotation
  • Optimize labor costs through strategic scheduling and payroll management
  • Implement and maintain quality control standards for food preparation and service
  • Drive customer satisfaction through proactive problem resolution and service excellence
  • Conduct regular safety audits and maintain Food Safety compliance standards
  • Create and adjust staff schedules to meet business demands while managing labor costs
  • Monitor and maintain equipment functionality, coordinating repairs as needed
  • Execute corporate promotional campaigns and local marketing initiatives

Radio Operator
USMC, Radio Operator (0621)
Fort Devens, MA | August, 2022 - Present

  • Trained and certified in radio communications operations, systems maintenance, and cybersecurity best practices
  • Active Secret Security Clearance with experience handling sensitive and classified information
  • Led and trained small teams in technical operations, equipment maintenance, and mission-critical tasks
  • Maintain and operate specialized communications vehicles
  • Manage critical communications systems including HF, VHF, UHF, IW, 3G, and Satellite Communications
  • Configured and maintained network infrastructure, including Ethernet wiring, field-expedient antennas, and tactical data links
  • Executed operations in dynamic, high-stress environments, requiring precision, adaptability, and strategic decision-making
  • Diagnosed and troubleshot complex communication systems, ensuring communicational operation readiness in high-pressure environments.

Allied Universal
AUS, Site Supervisor
Boston, MA | March, 2023 - March, 2024

  • Created Excel-based daily check-in reports for organized security tracking.
  • Developed automated drop-down menus for authorization tracking.
  • Managed access control and security systems.
  • Supervised security personnel and managed staff scheduling
  • Processed payroll and administrative documentation
  • Conducted access control and identification verification
  • Generated reports for facility management
  • Coordinated with client managers on security protocols
  • Monitored surveillance systems
  • Managed visitor and delivery protocols
  • Implemented security procedures and guidelines

CVS
CVS, Operations Supervisor
Tauton, MA, US | March, 2025 - Present

  • Lead daily store operations in absence of store manager, ensuring smooth execution of all procedures and staff functions.
  • Supervised, directed, and supported store crew in completing assigned tasks and delivering customer service excellence.
  • Delivered personalized coaching and performance feedback to team members using tools like myImpact and myCustomer.
  • Handled customer inquiries, concerns, and complaints in alignment with CVS policies, maintaining customer satisfaction.
  • Promoted CVS’s service culture by greeting customers, offering help, and thanking them for their business.
  • Maintained customer and patient confidentiality in all interactions.
  • Executed merchandise planning including weekly promotions, seasonal displays, and signage setup.
  • Priced merchandise, stocked shelves, and ensured off-shelf product presentation met visual standards.
  • Performed inventory management, coordinated weekly truck deliveries, and ensured accurate stock rotation.
  • Managed cash handling procedures including daily deposits and reconciliations using DOS/POS systems.
  • Oversaw opening and closing procedures, securing assets and ensuring operational readiness.
  • Communicated effectively with store management and crews to ensure consistency in store goals and expectations.

Certifications

Badges & Skills

Education

Java Certification Roadmap
Massasoit Community College, Middleboro, MA June, 2023 - January, 2025

  • Fundamentals of CS
  • Intro to Java Programming
  • Advanced Java Programming

Cybersecurity Major Roadmap
Massasoit Community College, Middleboro, MA June, 2023 - Present

GED Non-Major Transfer ➝ Cybersecurity Major Honors: Joshua Barros GPA: 3.6 I Plan to transfer in spring of 2026 from Massasoit Community College to Bridgewater State University.

The courses I have completed:

  • Fundamentals of CS
  • Intro to Java Programming
  • Advanced Java Programming
  • ENG Comp I
  • ENG Comp II
  • College Algebra
  • Precalculus
  • United States History I
  • United States History II
  • Bio Human Genetics & Society
  • History of Western Civ I
  • Bio Science for Life
  • ENG Intro to Fiction

Self-Study | Independent Learning Path
Home February, 2025 - Present

In parallel with formal education, I’ve actively pursued a self-directed learning path focused on software development, cybersecurity, and systems engineering. My self-study initiatives include:

  • Setting up home labs for hands-on experience in networking, system administration, and ethical hacking

  • Mastering tools such as RustDesk, Docker, Visual Studio Code, and WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)

  • Deploying and configuring Linux distributions (Ubuntu, Kali Linux) and utilizing Kali KeX GUI for advanced penetration testing

  • Learning secure deployment strategies using local servers and cloud services like Linode

  • Practicing coding in Java and scripting for automation and cybersecurity tasks

This self-driven approach has allowed me to reinforce classroom knowledge with practical, real-world experience—building a strong foundation for both professional growth and certification readiness.