Student Veteran & Lockpick Instructor | aaronjamesmiller.xyz
**Aaron James Miller** is a highly disciplined and pragmatic cybersecurity specialist with over **nine years** of focused, hands-on experience in the field. This profile blends the systematic approach and resilience gained from **six years of honorable military service** in the Oregon Army National Guard with deep, self-driven expertise in offensive security and system administration. I am intimately familiar with the **Kali Linux toolset**, proficient in **Python and Bash scripting** for automation, and highly skilled in maintaining hardened Linux servers (**Apache/Nginx**). A proven leader and recognized **instructor** in **physical security bypass** (lockpicking), I operate at the intersection of digital and physical threat vectors. Currently pursuing an **A.A.S. in Computer Systems Networking - Cyber Security** at Houston Community College, I actively translate academic knowledge into practical application while contributing to the Houston hacking and open-source communities.
Kali Linux & Pen-Testing
Intimate familiarity with the entire Kali distribution, routinely utilizing tools for network scanning (Nmap), vulnerability assessment, and exploitation (Metasploit) in controlled, ethical environments.
Linux CLI & Server Admin
Expert command-line interface (CLI) administration. Proficient in maintaining and hardening Linux servers, including spinning up and configuring web services using **Apache and Nginx**.
Python Programming
Applied knowledge of Python for developing custom security tools, performing **automated network analysis**, creating specialized data manipulation utilities, and facilitating ethical hacking workflows.
Bash Scripting
Highly proficient in writing robust Bash scripts for complex **task automation, rapid system configuration**, log analysis, and creating custom pipelines for information gathering.
Physical Security Bypass & Instruction
High proficiency in lockpicking; selected as an **instructor** for the Houston Security Conference (Sept 2025) to teach complex security concepts.
Cross-Platform Security
Extensive experience installing, configuring, and maintaining macOS, Linux, and Windows, ensuring a holistic understanding of cross-platform vulnerabilities.
System Assembly/Troubleshooting
Fundamental and practical knowledge of computer architecture, evidenced by the successful building of multiple custom systems, informing security and troubleshooting.
Network Protocols & Analysis
Strong grasp of TCP/IP networking, utilizing tools like Wireshark for packet analysis and maintaining core system integrity.
JAN 2017 - MAY 2023
Retired medically under honorable conditions after **six years of patriotic service**. Developed exceptional discipline, operational readiness, resource management, and the ability to execute complex, mission-critical tasks successfully under high-pressure, team-oriented scenarios.
9+ YEARS EXPERIENCE
A passionate commitment to the field since age 22. This extensive self-study has provided the foundation for practical expertise in the full lifecycle of penetration testing, from reconnaissance and threat modeling to post-exploitation analysis and system remediation.
2024 - PRESENT
Currently pursuing an **A.A.S. in Computer Systems Networking - Cyber Security - Specialization A.A.S.** at Houston Community College. Coursework complements hands-on experience, focusing on advanced network protocols, ethical hacking, and digital forensics.
Selected to teach lockpicking at the **Houston Security Conference (Sept 2025)**, validating high proficiency in physical security bypass methods and instructional capability. This involves developing curriculum and leading hands-on sessions.
Active membership and participation across the three major regional chapters. Engagement includes advanced technical workshops, competing in Capture The Flag (CTF) events, and collaborative security research, solidifying connection to the wider hacker community.
A regular and dedicated attendee focused on **deep technical exchange**, ethical hacking discussions, and sharing knowledge on advanced security tools and methodologies with peers.
A key member of the local lockpicking community, dedicated to mastering physical security penetration techniques and bypass methods through regular practice and skill-sharing.
Active in the **Houston Open Source Society (HOSS)**, **Cup of Joey: Cybersecurity Circle** (networking/mentorship), and **HSC User Group** (specialized industry discussions) to ensure continuous professional development.
Involvement in this focused setting centers around utilizing structured challenges and secured environments to refine practical skills in specialized areas such as web application security, exploit development, and secure code review.