In March 2009, Alveon Dixon was a dual enrollment student at the Center of Applied Technology, a magnet high school in Maryland.

He was one of the first students to earn the certified junior culinarian designation awarded by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). ACF operates the most comprehensive certification program for chefs in the United States.

The certified junior culinarian (CJC) designation indicates to industry and educational institutions that the student has completed a culinary arts program and has passed the required competencies of the program.

Dixon’s accomplishments included a $30,000 scholarship from Johnson & Wales University, honor roll status, and AP classes through high school. He was a top award winner in culinary art competitions. Alveon also earned recognition in high academic achievement, civic activity, extracurricular work, and competition activity.

After graduating from Johnson & Wales with a culinary arts degree, Alveon earned another degree in business administration (with a minor in cybersecurity) from the University of Maryland Global Campus.

Three years ago, Alveon interviewed to be an information systems security officer. But at the time, he lacked any industry-recognized cyber certification. A post-interview mentoring session advised him to get certified as well as training in cyber risk management.

Six months later, Alveon returned with industry certification in hand.

Upon joining the team, Alveon quickly garnered respect by automating cyber compliance practices. He became the go-to for information security challenges. He also requested to obtain his Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP), an advanced certification that is difficult to achieve.  Alveon took the class and certified the same week.

Currently, Alveon is an Eagle Alliance Information Systems Security Advisor working in support of an Intelligence Community customer. He is an asset to a large cyber team comprised of over 75 personnel. Since he joined the team, Alveon has systemized onboarding for entry-level staff to allow for seamless integration. The team thrives under his mentorship and guidance.