Michael Nobles

Cybersecurity & IT Student

Security Operations Learner

Network Security Focused

Ethical Hacking Learner

Critical Infrastructure Professional

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Hello, I’m Michael Nobles a Cybersecurity & IT Student a Security Operations Professional in Transition an Industrial & Critical Infrastructure Professional TestOut Security Pro Certified

Career-changer with a foundation built in the field.

I spent 10+ years working in safety-critical industrial operations — monitoring pipeline systems via SCADA and PLC, managing access control, responding to equipment failures, and keeping detailed records in regulated environments. Those aren't soft skills — they're directly applicable to cybersecurity work.

I'm now in my second year of an AAS in Cybersecurity and Computer Networks, as well as in my second year of an BAS in Cybersecurity and Information Technology at Bismarck State College (4.0 GPA), hold a CompTIA TestOut Security Pro certification, and actively building hands-on skills through various platforms and coursework. As I complete my degrees, I'm positioning myself for the right cybersecurity role, where fit, growth, and contribution matter more than just a title.

🛡️ CompTIA TestOut
Security Pro Certified

⚙️ 10+ Years in Critical
Infrastructure Operations

📚 AAS/BAS Cybersecurity
Student — 4.0 GPA

Technical Skills

Competencies

<p style="text-align:center; margin:0; font-size:inherit; white-space:nowrap;">Linux<br>(intermediate)</p>

Linux
(intermediate)

35%

<p style="text-align:center; margin:0; font-size:inherit; white-space:nowrap;">Windows Admin<br>(intermediate)</p>

Windows Admin
(intermediate)

35%

<p style="text-align:center; margin:0; font-size:inherit; white-space:nowrap;">Networking Fund.<br>(intermediate)</p>

Networking Fund.
(intermediate)

35%

<p style="text-align:center; margin:0; font-size:inherit; white-space:nowrap;">Python<br>(beginner)</p>

Python
(beginner)

35%

<p style="text-align:center; margin:0; font-size:inherit; white-space:nowrap;">Security Concepts<br>(beginner)</p>

Security Concepts
(beginner)

35%

<p style="text-align:center; margin:0; font-size:inherit; white-space:nowrap;">SCADA/PLC Control<br>(experienced)</p>

SCADA/PLC Control
(experienced)

75%

Tool Skills

Tool Stack

TryHackMe

20%
Maximo CMMS

75%
FLIR GF320 (Infrared)

75%
GoCanvas

75%
Brady LOTO Software

75%
SCADA/PLC Control

80%
Windows Command Line

35%
PowerShell

35%

General Skills

Security Concepts

Identity & Access Management

30%
Network Security

32%
Host & Application Defense

29%
Data Security

35%
Audit & Security Assessment

30%
Defensive Security

31%

Certifications

Soft Skills / Professional

Incident Response
Hazard Identification
Technical Documentation
Process Compliance
Training & Mentorship
Change Management (MOC/PSSR)

What I Bring to the Table

Security Monitoring & Analysis

Trained to identify anomalies, assess risk, and respond decisively. Backed by 10+ years of real-world hazard identification in critical infrastructure environments.

Systems & Network Defense

Foundational knowledge in defensive security, network hardening, Active Directory, and host protection — built through coursework and hands-on TryHackMe labs.

Documentation & Compliance

Meticulous technical documentation across regulated industrial environments. Experienced in audit-ready recordkeeping, change management, and compliance reporting.

Penetration Testing Fundamentals

Actively developing offensive security skills through Offensive Security Intro, Web Application Security, and an upcoming Ethical Hacking & Network Defense course—practically focused.

Professional Experience & Education

Employment

2014 - Present

Operations Specialist — Level 4

Kinder Morgan — Williston, ND

•
Daily monitor and control pipeline and compression equipment conditions via PLC and/or SCADA systems and manually inspect and maintain specified operating parameters across 25+ compressor stations.
•
Utilized FLIR GF320 infrared camera to identify and repair station leaks — applied thermal imaging to detect scavenger emission anomalies.
•
Built and maintained equipment-specific LOTO (lockout/tagout) procedures using Brady software for 25+ stations — structured, documented access control for critical infrastructure.
•
Served as Location Environmental Representative (LER): coordinated waste management, sampling, waste characterization, and periodic inspections — structured data collection and compliance reporting.
•
Performed Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR) and Management of Change (MOC) reviews prior to system modifications — a systematic change management process.
•
Conducted daily, monthly, quarterly, and annual inspections; identified, isolated, and resolved partial/full hydrate freezes and other system hazards (Process Hazard Analysis).
•
Identified and reported all safety and environmental hazards; took immediate corrective action — reactive incident response and root cause analysis in a regulated environment.
•
Developed and regularly updated GoCanvas digital workflow applications to streamline operations reporting.
•
Trained new operators at assigned compressor stations; maintained supply/tool inventory.
•
Managed LOTO, P&IDs, permitting, commissioning, and decommissioning for equipment changes.
•
Tracked and closed out Maximo work orders.

2014 - 2014

Gas Pipeline Operator

Summit Midstream — Stanley, ND

•
Assisted in day-to-day coordination of gas flow within the gathering system; monitored and controlled equipment operating conditions and completed required operational reports.
•
Responded promptly to callouts, utilizing SCADA remotely from home when necessary — remote infrastructure monitoring and control.
•
Assisted with compressor maintenance and related equipment; performed minor repairs with the assistance of others.
•
Identified and reported safety and environmental concerns; took corrective action as needed.
•
Oversaw contract work; completed LOTO, permitting, commissioning, and decommissioning.
•
Pigged lines as needed; reported all excessive downtime to appropriate personnel.
•
Maintained company vehicle and equipment; assisted with measurement duties and related tasks.

2013 - 2014

Lead Dispatcher

Braun — Tioga, ND

•
Assigned drivers and vehicles based on account type, time requirements, region, and production water levels.
•
Directed activities of drivers throughout shift; monitored established service and delivery routes to ensure optimum efficiency.
•
Maintained daily log of incidents and activities impacting all dispatch shifts; compiled and updated driver, equipment, and delivery site information.
•
Communicated with customers to expedite deliveries and pickups, manage location changes, and confirm product volumes.
•
Investigated overdue vehicles and resolved routing issues as they arose.

2012 - 2013

Logistics Manager

Maxum / Western Petroleum / Pilot Logistics — Tioga, ND

•
Assigned drivers and vehicles based on account type, time requirements, region, and type and amount of product required.
•
Directed driver activities throughout shift; monitored routes for efficiency; maintained daily logs of incidents and activities across all dispatch shifts.
•
Communicated with customers to expedite deliveries, coordinate frac job requests, manage location changes, and confirm product volumes.
•
Prepared daily fuel reports demonstrating accurate accounting of all fuel transactions; maintained accurate DOT logs.
•
Issued PPE and truck supplies to personnel; maintained equipment in clean and functional condition.
•
Performed tank and containment setting with crane truck; provided fueling services to support frac operations.
•
Transported fuel to customer locations; upheld safety and customer service standards throughout.

2011 - 2012

BOP Tester

S&K Stack Testing

•
Pressure-tested blowout preventer (BOP) components on active drilling rigs — valve bodies, pipe rams, blinds, annulars, manifolds, rotating heads, casing, mud lines, and choke house equipment.
•
Assessed condition of equipment; troubleshot issues and provided repair recommendations to clients based on findings.
•
Prepared test records documenting pass/fail results for all equipment tested.
•
Performed nipple up/nipple down operations; maintained on-call availability 24/7.

Volunteer Work

2013 - 2023

Vice Chairmen

Tioga Airport Authority — Tioga, ND

- •
  Assisted the Board President in leading monthly board meetings and presided in the President's absence.
- •
  Contributed to developing and approving airport policies, strategic plans, and long-term capital improvement priorities aligned with municipal goals.
- •
  Took an active role in the development of a new terminal, reviewed and approved major contracts, and signed multi‑million‑dollar checks for capital expenditures and vendor agreements.
- •
  Launched and oversaw pilot programs to test new services and technologies at the airport.
- •
  Established and supported drone camps and aviation programs for youth to promote STEM and aviation careers.
- •
  Helped lead the airport to be recognized as Airport of the Year (2019) through strategic initiatives and operational improvements.
- •
  Monitored airport operations, safety, and regulatory compliance; reviewed performance reports and ensured adherence to federal, state, and local regulations.
- •
  Participated in budget review and approval, monitored expenditures and revenue performance, oversaw grant and funding applications, and authorized large financial disbursements.
- •
  Acted as a primary point of contact between the board and the city council, communicated board decisions, and represented the board at council meetings and public forums.
- •
  Fostered relationships with airlines, tenants, neighboring communities, and regulatory agencies; addressed public concerns and facilitated stakeholder outreach.
- •
  Chaired or served on board committees (e.g., finance, operations, planning), led committee meetings, and prepared reports and recommendations for full board consideration.
- •
  Assisted in board recruitment, orientation of new members, and ensured continuity of governance and best‑practice board procedures.

2013 - 2016

Volunteer Police Officer

Tioga Police Department — Tioga, ND

•
Conducted regular foot and vehicle patrols to deter crime, monitor public areas, and ensure community safety.
•
Responded to calls for service, secured scenes, provided first aid when needed, and coordinated with emergency services.
•
Enforced local ordinances and state laws, issued citations, and assisted with arrests following department procedures.
•
Directed traffic at incidents and events, investigated traffic collisions, and completed collision reports.
•
Built positive community relations through neighborhood outreach, crime prevention programs, and public safety presentations.
•
Prepared clear, timely incident reports, arrest reports, and supplemental documentation for investigations and court proceedings.
•
Secured, preserved, and logged evidence according to chain-of-custody procedures.
•
Testified in court as required and assisted with administrative tasks, records, and interagency coordination.
•
Maintained required certifications, participated in regular training (e.g., defensive tactics, firearms, first aid), and completed fitness and readiness assessments.
•
Assisted with special operations, community events, crowd control, and support roles such as K-9, traffic enforcement details, or neighborhood watch coordination when assigned.

Education

2025 - Present

AAS in Cybersecurity and Computer Networks

Bismarck, ND, USA

This program combines cybersecurity with system and network administration, covering security best practices, networking, operating systems (Windows and Linux), hardware, and programming. Students learn through hands-on labs and simulations informed by the cybersecurity community, and complete industry-aligned projects and certifications to prepare for immediate workforce entry.

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2008 - 2010

Aviation Science and Management (degree not completed)

Orem, Utah, USA

The emphasis is designed to develop practical leadership skills for a variety of careers both in and outside the aviation industry. Courses are based on real world aviation needs, developed through ties with industry experts. The curriculum covers a broad range of knowledge and skills, including airline and airport management, aviation science, aviation security and safety, marketing, aviation finance, human resources, and many others.

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Courses

Cybersecurity Course Study Details

In this course, students learn basic concepts and applications of artificial intelligence (AI), including AI project cycles. There will be a focus on AI issues, including ethics, bias, culture, regulation, and professional expectations.

AI 100

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Provides hands on operation of personal computers with the spreadsheet software, Microsoft Excel. Students should have keyboarding skills before enrolling in class. Students will need access to the most recent version of Excel for this course. The software is available as a free download through the students BSC email account and in computer labs on campus. The Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exam is optional for completion of the course and MOS exam fees are the student's responsibility.

CIS 105

Microcomputer Spreadsheets

This course introduces students to the Linux operating system. It provides practical skills using command line utilities, managing processes and file systems, as well as installing and maintaining software. In addition to gaining practical Linux experience, this course helps to prepare students for the CompTIA Linux+ certification exams.

CIS 107

Linux Fundamentals

Students learn the functionality of hardware and software components as well as suggested best practices in maintenance and safety issues. The students, through hands-on activities and labs, learn to assemble and configure a computer, install operating systems and software, and troubleshoot hardware and software problems. In addition, this course helps students prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification.

CIS 128

Microcomputer Hardware I

This course is intended for students who want to increase their understanding of information security. Students will learn about the types of security risks, how they work, and how we can protect our computers and networks from these risks. Topics covered include basic security principles, terminology, legal and ethical issues, as well as examining security from business and personal perspectives.

CIS 147

Principles of Information Security

This course introduces the architectures, models, protocols, and other elements used by the internet and modern computer networks. Students will learn to plan and build simple networks, as well as perform basic network device configuration and troubleshooting. This is the first of three courses providing foundational knowledge required for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification.

CIS 164

Networking Fundamentals I

This course focuses on local area network switching and routing concepts. Wireless networking and security are also examined. Students will learn to perform basic network configuration and troubleshooting, identify and mitigate LAN security threats, as well as configure and secure a basic wireless network. This is the second of three courses providing foundational knowledge required for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification.

CIS 165

Networking Fundamentals II

This course uses the Python language to provide an introduction to computer programming. Topics include programming fundamentals, logic development, top down program design, and application creation.

CIS 185

Introduction to Programming

The course helps learners to gain the knowledge and skills to install, configure, customize, optimize, and troubleshoot the Microsoft Windows operating system in a stand-alone and network environment.

CIS 212

Microsoft Windows Operating System Client

This course helps learners who will be responsible for configuring, managing, and troubleshooting a network infrastructure that uses the Microsoft Windows Server products. Students will learn how to install and manage a Microsoft Server and it roles. DHCP, DNS, RRAS, and File and Print services will be explored along with other roles and services.

CIS 216

Implementing a Microsoft Windows Network Infrastructure

This course covers topics relating to the administration of Linux computer systems. It provides experience in user management, task scheduling, system logging, shell scripting, system security, and other common system administration tasks. In addition to gaining practical Linux experience, this course helps to prepare students for the CompTIA Linux+ certification exams.

CIS 223

Linux System Administration

This course introduces students to technologies and practices used to secure computers and networks. Topics covered include cryptography, secure authentication, logging, device security, and other aspects of enterprise security. Extensive networking and operating system knowledge is recommended. In addition to gaining practical security experience, this course helps to prepare students for the CompTIA Security+ certification.

CIS 255

Computer and Network Security

This course further examines local area network routing, connectivity, and security concepts. Wide area network communications and quality of service are also introduced. Additionally, students will learn about software-defined networking, virtualization, and automation, as well as network management and design. This course is the third of three courses providing foundational knowledge for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification.

CIS 267

Intermediate Networking I

This course teaches core security skills needed for monitoring, detecting, investigating, analyzing and responding to security events, thereby protecting systems and organizations from cybersecurity risks, threats and vulnerabilities.

CIS 274

Cybersecurity Operations

This class is an introduction to ethical problems and decision making as it relates to computers, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Students will be asked to examine moral issues, and apply ethical theory to them. Aspects of what is right, wrong and socially acceptable in terms of technology use will be discussed.

CIS 280

Cyber Ethics

This course provides experience securing computer network resources. The tools and methodologies attackers use will be examined, as well as defenses against them.

CIS 282

Ethical Hacking and Network Defense

This course provides students with knowledge of career requirements in Cybersecurity and builds their skill sets to lay the groundwork for successful entry into the industry. Potential topics include developing professional workforce skills, learning through cyber competitions, engaging in cyber service, and more. This class is designed for students in their second full semester of the Cybersecurity and Computer Networks program.

CIS 184 or CIS 197

Cybersecurity Career Introduction (CIS 184)

This course expands students skill sets in Cybersecurity. Potential topics include further developing professional workforce skills, continuing service in Cyber, demonstrating knowledge through certifications, and more. This class is designed for students in their third full semester of the Cybersecurity and Computer Networks program.

CIS 284 or CIS 197

Cybersecurity Career Development (CIS 284)

This course furthers students skill sets in Cybersecurity. Potential topics include polishing their professional workforce skills, leading service in Cyber, demonstrating knowledge through certifications, completing a comprehensive final project, and more. This class is designed for students in their final full semester of the Cybersecurity and Computer Networks program.

CIS 285 or CIS 197

Cybersecurity Career Enhancement

Cooperative education and internships provide students with real-world experience in business and industry as they explore careers or gain experience in chosen fields of study. The work experiences must be directly related to the discipline under which the credits are to be awarded.

CIS 197

Cooperative Education/Internship

Coursework