Steven Loucks
Navy Veteran | Business Owner | Cybersecurity Student
I'm a cybersecurity student at WGU building real-world labs, certifications, and documentation to launch a second career in cyber defense.
My Journey into Cybersecurity
After 20+ years operating tower cranes, managing Domino's stores, and running a high-demand luxury auto transport business, I've transitioned into cybersecurity. My work has always required precision, responsibility, and problem-solving — the same mindset I now apply to digital systems and infosec.
I'm currently earning my B.S. in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance at WGU, and building out professional lab environments and documentation to prove what I can do.
Why Cybersecurity Now?
This career shift isn't random — it's the next evolution. For years, I operated tower cranes in high-risk environments where attention to detail meant the difference between safety and catastrophe. Every operation demanded total focus, precision under pressure, and the ability to adapt in real time — hour after hour, day after day.
Now, I'm applying that same mindset to cybersecurity. Through hands-on labs, certifications, and degree work at WGU, I'm building the technical foundation to contribute in SOC operations, automation, and threat detection. This isn't just a new career — it's a continuation of how I've always worked: calm under pressure, committed to doing the job right, and never afraid to take on complex challenges.
🔬 Real-world cybersecurity labs with full documentation — demonstrating practical skills through hands-on implementation and testing.
SOC Automation Lab
Automating alert triage using Shuffle, Elastic Stack, and Slack integrations.
View LabActive Directory Lab 1.0
Set up a basic AD domain controller with DHCP, DNS, OUs, and users.
View LabDetection Lab 1.0
Standalone detection-focused environment with EDR, IDS, logging pipeline, and MITRE ATT&CK mapping.
View Lab🏢 Professional development through industry-leading virtual experience programs — simulating real-world cybersecurity scenarios and business processes.
Coming Soon
I plan to complete several Forage programs focused on cybersecurity, risk management, and SOC workflows.
Programs under consideration include:
- Accenture North America Cybersecurity
- Mastercard Cybersecurity & Risk
- PwC Cybersecurity
This section will be updated as each program is completed.
📝 Technical insights and learning documentation — sharing knowledge and lessons learned from hands-on cybersecurity work.
Writeups and reflections on tools, techniques, and lessons learned in labs.
View Posts📧 Let's connect — open to cybersecurity opportunities, collaboration, and professional networking.
Want to get in touch? You can reach me via LinkedIn or email.
