Hi, I'm Juan 👋

Cybersecurity & Software Engineer

I'm a cybersecurity master's student at FIU and software engineer focused on building secure applications, strengthening my cybersecurity knowledge, and sharing my learning journey. I like to break down complex security and development concepts into practical, approachable insights.

Photo of Juan Hernandez

What I do

🛡️

Cybersecurity & Defense

CompTIA Security+ certified professional focused on SOC monitoring, network defense, and incident response.

Security Focus

  • Tools: Splunk, Nmap, Wireshark, Packet Tracer.
  • Defensive: Threat analysis & SIEM implementation.
  • Network: VLANs, ACLs, VPNs, and TCP/IP
  • Compliance: HIPAA-aligned operations
⚙️

Software Engineering

Full-stack developer building scalable applications with a focus on secure backend architecture and RESTful APIs.

Development Stack

  • Languages: Node.js, Python, C#, Java
  • Databases: PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB
  • Scalability: Optimized systems for 300+ users
  • Infrastructure: AWS (EC2, S3), Docker, Git
🤖

AI & Model Validation

Expert in evaluating AI model outputs for accuracy and reliability, ensuring safety and consistency in LLMs.

AI Specialization

  • Expertise: Model Validation 2 (Expert Level)
  • Focus: Reliability, Accuracy & Safety
  • API Skills: Google Gemini Integration
✍️

Knowledge Sharing

Breaking down complex security concepts and technical walkthroughs into practical, approachable insights.

Community Focus

  • Write-ups: Sharing my Cybersecurity and Software Engineering journey, giving tips and tutorials.
  • Mentorship: INIT Ignite Mentor @ FIU
  • Presentations: Showcased at ShellHacks & Expo
  • Blog: Security and development tutorials

Projects

Mi Ruta

A public transportation route explorer for Managua that helps people find how to get from point A to point B using GTFS data.

Technologies Used

  • Frontend: React, JavaScript
  • Backend: Node.js, Express
  • Database: PostgreSQL, GTFS parsing
  • Skills: API design, data modeling, UX optimization

NexusHACK

A social platform connecting first-time hackers to form teams and collaborate before hackathons. Built at ShellHacks 2025.

Technologies Used

  • Frontend: React, TypeScript
  • Backend: Express, Node.js
  • Database: PostgreSQL (cloud-hosted)
  • APIs: Google Gemini API for AI recommendations
🔒

Cyber Home Lab

A virtualized security environment for practicing attacks, defenses, and SIEM monitoring in a safe, controlled setting.

Lab Components

  • Virtualization: VMware, VirtualBox
  • SIEM: Splunk Enterprise for log analysis
  • Network: Segmented VLANs, firewall rules
  • Practice: Malware analysis, incident response

Writing & Blog

I write about cybersecurity concepts, walkthroughs, and development tips. By sharing my experience in Software Development, Cybersecurity, and AI Validation, I want to make security and development approachable for everyone.

Read My Blog

Certifications & Achievements

🎓

CompTIA Security+

Certification

Industry-recognized certification validating foundational cybersecurity skills and knowledge.

Click for details →

🌐

Microsoft AZ-500

Certification In Progress

Currently studying for the AZ-500 exam with a focus on cloud identity, platform protection, and security operations.

🏆

FIU FlagOps CTF 2025

Winner

First place in FIU's competitive Capture The Flag competition, demonstrating advanced security skills.

Click for details →

💻

ShellHacks 2025

Participant

Built NexusHACK, a social platform connecting first-time hackers to form teams and collaborate.

Click for details →

🚀

Keiser Software Expo 2025

Participant

Presented Mi Ruta, a public transportation app for Managua, demonstrating real-world problem-solving and full-stack development skills.

Click for details →

Experience

AI Model Validation Associate

Handshake AI – Remote

November 2025 – January 2026

  • Earned Model Validation Level 2 (Expert) certification through successful contribution to a major AI validation project.
  • Evaluating AI model outputs for accuracy, consistency, and reliability while identifying complex edge cases and incorrect behaviors.
  • Documenting validation results and technical findings to support the iterative improvement of large-scale AI systems.
AI Model Validation Model Reliability Data Analysis LLM Testing

Program Director Assistant

Keiser University – Software Engineering Department, Nicaragua

August 2024 – December 2024

  • Managed student and class databases using Microsoft Excel and MySQL, increasing registration rates by 30%
  • Led development of Work-Study Program website using Node.js, Express, and MySQL, enhancing security, functionality, and programming for 300+ students
  • Strengthened system security and reliability through secure backend implementation and database management
Node.js Express MySQL Database Management

IT & Network Support Technician

Alloy Clinical Research, Kissimmee, FL

May 2024 – August 2024

  • Maintained system security by keeping OS and applications patched, reducing compatibility issues and ensuring HIPAA-compliant operations
  • Resolved 20+ weekly IT support requests, reducing average downtime by 15% in a clinical research setting
  • Protected sensitive patient data through secure IT practices and compliance protocols
IT Support Network Security HIPAA Compliance Windows 10

Get in touch

I'm open to discussing security, software engineering, collaboration, or interesting projects. Feel free to reach out!