Derek Howatt
San Diego,CA
Summary
Operations Specialist with the US Navy, skilled in enhancing operational efficiency and cross-functional communication. Proven track record in managing advanced radar and communication systems, leading to improved mission success. Adept at planning and coordinating training programs, fostering team leadership, and ensuring cybersecurity compliance.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Operations Specialist
US Navy
08.2022 - Current
- Operated and managed advanced radar, sonar, and communication systems to support naval operations, ensuring accurate tracking, situational awareness, and real-time decision-making.
- Collected, analyzed, and reported on tactical data, including over 30,000 air, surface, and subsurface contact informations, to enhance fleet safety and mission success.
- Coordinated with intelligence and command teams to assess threats, plan operations, and execute maritime security, search and rescue, and combat missions.
- Trained and mentored junior personnel in radar operation, tactical data processing, and operational procedures, improving team performance and efficiency.
Lead Database Manager
US Navy
02.2023 - Current
- Operated and maintained the Global Command and Control System – Maritime (GCCS-M), providing real-time operational picture (COP) to enhance situational awareness and command decision-making.
- Managed track data correlation, sensor fusion, and link integration (Link-11, Link-16, and CEC) to support fleet-level maritime operations and joint force coordination.
- Conducted system configuration, troubleshooting, software updates, and security patches to ensure continuous system uptime and cybersecurity compliance.
Terminal Area Security Officer
US Navy
05.2023 - Current
- Managed and enforced security operations within the terminal area, ensuring the safety and protection of personnel, equipment, and sensitive assets from external threats.
- Conducted security assessments and threat analysis, providing actionable recommendations to senior leadership to mitigate risks and improve security protocols.
- Led 3 incident investigations, documented findings, and worked to develop preventative measures to reduce vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with security regulations.
Naval Surface Fire Support Radio Transmitter
US Navy
10.2023 - Current
- Operated and maintained NSFS radio transmitter systems, ensuring reliable, secure, and continuous communication between naval surface fire support teams, command centers, and other units.
- Coordinated real-time transmission of over 500 fire support requests, target coordinates, and operational data during tactical missions and training exercises.
- Utilized military communication protocols and encrypted radio systems to transmit vital information across multiple communication networks, ensuring operational efficiency and mission success.
Piloting Officer
US Navy
02.2024 - Current
- Directed navigation and piloting operations for naval vessels, ensuring precise course plotting, positioning, and movement in both routine and combat scenarios.
- Coordinated with bridge team members, engineers, and tactical operations personnel to ensure over 50 restricted water navigations and 25 anchoring at seas
- Conducted real-time tactical decision-making and maneuvering in high-risk environments, ensuring safety, mission success, and adherence to naval protocols.
- Utilized advanced navigational tools (GPS, radar, sonar) and systems for precise vessel positioning, collision avoidance, and mission-specific navigation.
Training Petty Officer
US Navy
05.2025 - Current
- Led, managed, and coordinated the training programs for 25 personnel in Operational Intelligence, ensuring readiness and proficiency in essential tasks, procedures, and systems.
- Developed and implemented training schedules, instructional materials, and assessments to meet both departmental and operational needs, improving team performance and mission readiness.
- Delivered hands-on training sessions, classroom instruction, and practical evaluations on a variety of technical and operational topics, from equipment operation to safety protocols.
- Mentored and coached 15 junior personnel, providing guidance and feedback to support their professional development and career progression.
Education
High School Diploma -
Silverado High School
Las Vegas, NV06.2021
Skills
- Operational efficiency
- Planning and coordination
- Cross-functional communication
- Team Leadership & Supervision
Certification
United Services Military Apprenticeship Program Computer Operator Certification
Timeline
Training Petty Officer
US Navy
05.2025 - Current
Piloting Officer
US Navy
02.2024 - Current
Naval Surface Fire Support Radio Transmitter
US Navy
10.2023 - Current
Terminal Area Security Officer
US Navy
05.2023 - Current
Lead Database Manager
US Navy
02.2023 - Current
Operations Specialist
US Navy
08.2022 - Current
High School Diploma -
Silverado High School
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