Tastery Reed Jr. - Founder
Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Tastery Reed Jr. is a dedicated public servant, investigator, and career coach with more than a decade of experience in government operations, fraud prevention, and workforce development. He is the founder of TRJ Coaching, a professional coaching practice that helps individuals build confidence, develop clarity, and strategically pursue meaningful careers in public service.
Tastery’s approach blends career strategy, mentorship, and accountability—helping clients not just find jobs, but discover careers aligned with purpose, structure, and service.
The Why Behind My Work
When I stepped into my first government role as an Investigator, I quickly became aware of how isolating it could feel to be one of the few individuals who looked like me in that environment. Rather than allowing that experience to discourage me, it became a powerful motivator. I felt compelled to help change the narrative—not only for myself, but for those who would follow.
I began by returning to my high school and speaking at other schools, sharing my career journey and introducing students to professional paths they may not have realized were possible. Those conversations opened the door to broader mentorship opportunities across organizations and colleges, where I supported students in clarifying their goals and recognizing their potential.
As my career progressed, I extended that same guidance to mentoring new investigators on the job. Supporting their growth and watching them step into their roles with confidence affirmed what I had come to understand: guiding and developing others is central to my purpose.
Through these experiences, I discovered a deep passion for empowering people to move forward with clarity and confidence. That passion ultimately led me to pursue certification as a life coach. Today, my mission is to help others step into opportunities they may never have imagined—and to ensure that no one feels as alone on their journey as I once did.
Experience Rooted in Public Service
Tastery has spent his career at the intersection of investigation, integrity, and mentorship, serving in leadership roles across major state and municipal agencies in Massachusetts. His extensive background in fraud investigation and employee accountability gives him a unique perspective on what makes a candidate stand out in the public sector.
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Investigations Manager, Executive Office of Health and Human Services — Conducting investigations into employee misconduct and ensuring fair, transparent outcomes in administrative hearings.
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Investigator, City of Boston – Office of Police Accountability & Transparency — Recognized as a 2023 City of Boston Civic Hero for his commitment to justice and ethical public service.
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Fraud Investigator, Office of the State Auditor — Led complex financial fraud investigations, uncovering over $250,000 in fraudulent activities.
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Career Coach (Volunteer), Pay Forward Coaching — Provides mentorship and resume guidance for individuals navigating career transitions.
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Hope Ambassador, Bunker Hill Community College — Supports students in achieving academic success and professional readiness.
Education & Credentials
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M.A. in Homeland Defense & Counterterrorism, University of Massachusetts Lowell
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B.S. in Criminal Justice & Investigative Services, University of New Haven
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Certified Life Coach
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Certified Cyber Crime Investigator (NW3C)
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Reid’s Investigative Interviewing & Advanced Interrogation Certification
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Goodwill Career Coaching & Navigator Certification
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Certificate in Security Studies, UMass Lowell
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Massachusetts Notary Public