Stephen Alderete

Stephen Alderete is a seasoned IT and security professional and retired U.S. Army communications leader with over 15 years of experience managing complex technology operations across military and private sectors. Currently serving as IT Lead & Security Manager at Xairos Systems Inc., Stephen oversees IT infrastructure and cybersecurity for a space-based quantum technology firm specializing in resilient global timing solutions. His expertise spans network administration, secure cloud integration, Microsoft 365 management, and safeguarding proprietary technologies within highly regulated environments.  

Previously, Stephen held a key leadership role at BridgeComm Inc., where he managed global network operations and transitioned critical systems to the AWS cloud. There, he mastered and deployed free-space optical (FSO) communications for both terrestrial-to-terrestrial and space-to-terrestrial applications, ensuring secure, high-speed data transfers for international ground stations and satellite links.  

Stephen is a retired U.S. Army veteran, where he served in a variety of advanced communications roles throughout his distinguished career. As Communications Manager for an aviation unit, he led UHF/SHF radio communications and implemented new core networks across deployments. He also served as Command Post Node (CPN) Chief during a deployment to Afghanistan, where he led a team responsible for ensuring seamless, mission-critical communications in a combat environment. His military background includes managing satellite communications, secure networks, and information assurance across multiple global commands.  

Stephen holds numerous certifications, including CompTIA Security+, CompTIA A+, and Cisco networking credentials. He also attended the University of Maryland University College with a focus in Information Technology. With a strategic mindset and deep technical acumen, Stephen excels at building secure, high-performance IT environments that support innovation, resilience, and mission success.