Employee Spotlight: Johnathan Erwin, Security Engineer
Ostra is kicking off our first employee spotlight with our Security Engineer, Johnathan Erwin from Ostra’s Cybersecurity Operations team. We recently sat down with him to talk about his role at Ostra, what makes him tick, his experience, and his life outside of work.
Career & Life at Ostra
Describe what you do at Ostra in one sentence.
I help support Ostra’s Cybersecurity Operations, and make sure everything runs smoothly for our team and clients. (And whatever else Michael Kennedy tells me to do! Haha.)
What initially interested you about Ostra Cybersecurity in the first place?
I worked with Michael Kennedy previously at Optum, and really enjoyed working with him. I was interested in learning more about cybersecurity, so joining the team at Ostra made a lot of sense.
What excites you most about your position and growth opportunity at Ostra?
I like that the opportunities are ever changing. I also enjoy building new tools, learning something new or finding something new to try. At Ostra, there is always something new to try, learn or take on.
What do you believe is the best thing about Ostra or the Ostra team?
The best thing about Ostra is our work environment. Ostra’s leaders have built an amazing culture where people are here to work and help each other. Our team cares for each other, is flexible and communicates well.
What do you find most challenging about your role at Ostra?
At Ostra, I never know what the day will hold. I can come prepared with my best laid plan, and then something shifts, and I must switch gears. Each day it is something new, and I must always be prepared for whatever comes.
What advice would you offer to someone looking to take on a role similar to yours?
I would say to get really good at using Google. Haha! But seriously, be comfortable asking questions, multi-tasking, shifting gears often and being prepared for a changing workload.
What would you do for a career if you weren’t doing this?
I would love to do something in the music business. I have played bass and guitar for the most of my life and would pursue that as a career.
OK, now for some fun questions
Where’s your favorite place in the world?
My favorite place in the world would definitely be a concert. It doesn’t matter which one, simply any concert.
Name one thing not a lot of people know about you.
I have a huge sweet tooth—cookies are the best bribe!
Three words to best describe you.
Silly, hardworking, and caring.
Name the most interesting place you have ever visited.
I had the opportunity to visit a gem mine in North Carolina called Emerald Hallow. A memory I will never forget!
What’s your motto or personal mantra?
I’ll rest when I’m dead.
