Derek Vigil

I’m Derek Vigil, an interdisciplinary storyteller and strategist with a degree in International Affairs and Russian Studies. Whether collaborating with state institutions or leading teams as a military officer, I thrive on translating complex ideas into clear, engaging narratives that connect diverse audiences.  

With over six years of interdisciplinary experience, I have led diverse teams as a military officer in high-pressure operations, managed cultural research and public-engagement projects being a case worker for individuals with intellectual disabilities, and provided translation and support for Ukrainian refugees. I excel at crafting clear, impactful communications, coordinating complex timelines and budgets, and building collaborative partnerships. My blend of strategic planning, cross-cultural advocacy, and project management ensures mission-driven initiatives consistently achieve measurable outcomes.

I earned dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in International Affairs and Russian Studies from the University of Colorado Boulder, completing my studies in April 2024. My coursework focused on Imperial and twentieth-century Russia, and I augmented classroom learning with a semester abroad in Saint Petersburg, collaborating with local museums and faculty to translate academic research into engaging public exhibits.

I completed the Computer User Support Specialist program at ACI Learning Tech Academy, where I developed hands-on skills in troubleshooting, system maintenance, and end-user support. This technical training is bolstered by industry certifications in CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and Axelos ITIL 4 Foundation, demonstrating my commitment to best practices in IT service management.

My leadership and operational acumen are rooted in U.S. Army professional military education. At Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, I graduated from the Basic Officer Leader’s Course and Military Police Course in August 2023, mastering strategic decision-making, logistics coordination, and team management under demanding conditions.