I am from southern Illinois, currently completing my last semester at John A. Logan College (JALC) in Carterville, Illinois with an A.A.S. in Computer Forensics and Network Security. I will be transferring to obtain my B.A. in Information Technology at the University of North Texas in Dallas. Throughout my studies, I have had the most success and interest in programming, mobile and Mac and security. Outside of my studies I work several jobs. My favorite position is with my college where I have had the opportunity to work along side industry and educational leaders to prepare our Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE2Y) application http://www.nationalcyberwatch.org/cae-2y/ and research various grants to continue building our CIS program at JALC. The work I do for the college benefits students and faculty alike. The application for CAE designation was tedious work but the end result upon approval will be well worth the time and effort put forth. I also provide on call IT support services for a local medical facility, write articles for a national online news network, and manage social media promotions, as well as repair iPhone and iPad devices.
As the 2015 assistant volleyball coach for Murphysboro High School I learned a lot about contingency planning, as player injuries can change the entire lineup and moral of a team. Innovation is an interest of mine because I love planning ahead and being ahead of the curve. Outside of school and work, I participate on the JALC Logan Defenders Cyber Defense Team, am the secretary and treasurer of the Y.O.D.A. Club (Your Operators Defending Assets), and am a member of Phi Theta Kappa. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my son traveling and exploring together.
My cyber security journey began with a visit to my academic advisor, Mr. Mark Rogers. At the time I was exploring my options as a computer science major and we discussed the computer forensics program and the high demand for graduates in the area. The cyber security field is growing at a rate that creates a deficit of professionals.
Realizing the importance of cyber security, my focus narrowed to the mobile security field, as it is a growing area of technology. We need more focus in this area; only now am I finding colleges offering classes tailored to mobile forensics and security. Staying current with technology trends is tricky because by the time educators create a program, the technology has changed. Technology is continuously evolving and the needs of students and professionals are too. I can say my experience working with instructors has taught me the challenges that they face keeping up. I would say that the biggest challenge I have encountered is continuing my education in a program that fits my passion. Yes, I love all aspects of technology and there is much to learn but I would love to be able to do more than just research mobile security. It is such a broad field that an entire program could be created for it and I hope that someday soon it happens. My advice for future students is to stay open minded, flexible and brave because things and people change but our passions usually stay the same, so follow what you’re passionate about and it will take you far.
In closing, one of many favorite Steve Jobs quotes: “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”
