Protecting the Vulnerable in Cybersecurity

By Eddie Johnson, Student and Alumni Affairs Intern and JR Morton, Student and Alumni Affairs Liaison

Today’s cybersecurity is more challenging than ever before, due to Internet of Things (IoT) technology, bring your own devices (BYOD) and cloud services. It is a field that is constantly evolving and requires a proactive approach.

For University alumnus Dave Ruiz, cybersecurity isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. It aligns with his desire to protect and serve others.

Struggles and triumphs in higher education

During his long career and multiple deployments in the U.S. Army, Dave’s work has encompassed many aspects of cybersecurity, including conducting vulnerability assessments, creating cybersecurity policies to protect information, and training others by teaching cybersecurity education.

In May 2022, Dave retired from the military and began working as a part-time contractor for Holt Data Solutions. He later became the cybersecurity lead for Fayetteville Public Works Communication.

However, Dave faced significant challenges in pursuing his bachelor’s degree at traditional universities. The rigid nature of in-person classes and schedules clashed with his job, often causing delays in his academic progress.

As a result, Dave looked for online courses and found the university. He went on to complete a bachelor’s degree in IT management and then went on to earn a master’s degree in IT information security and assurance.

Giving back to the university community

Dave says, “It’s important to find a mentor and the right niche in the diverse field of cybersecurity. Guidance and support are critical to success.”

Dave’s experience fueled his desire to give back to the community that supported him. He is actively involved in the university community, serving in multiple roles including:

Advice for future cybersecurity students

Dave’s future goals include coaching, mentoring, and motivating others on their path to academic success. He says, “Authenticity is the key to being an effective mentor and educator. In today’s world, where students have access to vast amounts of information at their fingertips, being genuine and prepared is essential.”

Certifications are useful in cybersecurity, and there are many potential certifications that can be earned. Dave says some of the most useful certifications include:

CompTIA Security+^®
Certified Information Security Professional (CISSP)^®)
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)^®)
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)^®)
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)^®)
Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)^®)
Certified System Security Practitioner (SSCP)^®)
GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC^®)

For students looking to study cybersecurity, he advises, “Make sure you research your options and select the one that best fits your ultimate goal.”

CompTIA Security+ is a registered trademark of the Computing Technology Industry Association, Inc.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional is a registered trademark of the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc.

Certified Ethical Hacker is a registered trademark of the International Council of E-Commerce Consultants.

Certified Information Systems Auditor is a registered trademark of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association.

Certified Information Security Manager is a registered trademark of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association.

GCIH is a registered trademark of Global Information Assurance Certification.

Systems Security Certified Practitioner is a registered trademark of the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)², Inc.

GIAC Security Essentials Certification is a registered trademark of Escal Institute of Advanced Technologies, Inc.

About the authors

Eddie Johnson is a Student and Alumni Affairs intern and a recently retired Army Veteran. He is currently a contractor for the Air Force in his local community and has started a non-profit organization structured around communication and life skills that will encourage local youth to be valuable citizens in their communities.

John Robert Morton is Student & Alumni Affairs Liaison and has been with the university for 14 years. He earned his bachelor’s degree in European History from Troy University in Troy, Alabama. He also holds master’s degrees in Political Science and Sports Management from American Military University. As a liaison, John Robert enjoys helping students and alumni achieve their personal and professional goals.

About our department

The AMU and APU Alumni Affairs Office is dedicated to fostering lifelong relationships with the university’s alumni by providing engaging opportunities to stay involved and connected. We work closely with a variety of stakeholders to enhance the alumni experience and offer numerous benefits, services, activities and events throughout the year.

As a team, the Alumni Affairs team works to build and nurture relationships with alumni throughout their personal and professional journeys. We actively seek out ways to recognize and showcase alumni, telling their stories to motivate and encourage students to pursue their goals.

If you are a member of the alumni community and are looking for ways to stay actively involved, please contact [email protected] and speak to a member of the team.