Presentation Topic: Navigating the AI-driven cyber landscape

Abstract:

Historically, the Cyber Security field has been full of opportunities for new professionals. Cyber technicians constantly found themselves inundated with responsibility as they attempted to respond to alerts, policy changes, and technical requirements every day. This made staffing shortages common in the field, as entry-level positions were used as the initial responders to low severity events, allowing more senior technicians to focus on higher-level tasks. With the rise of Artificial Intelligence, many of these security responsibilities have become automated. Entry-level technicians are used less often for things like initial malware detections, for example. Instead, AI-driven tools like Defender for Endpoint respond to them while automatically delivering the results to the senior technician. This presentation will cover how innovations in AI have changed the Cyber workforce, and how young professionals can prepare themselves to succeed in it.

Bio

I graduated from Nansemond River High School in 2011. After being medically disqualified from Military Service, I enrolled at Tidewater Community College studying General Science. My original intention was to study Data Analysis. After enrolling at Old Dominion University, I fell in love with computers and started studying Cybersecurity. Seeing the opportunity to make an impact, I began taking intern ships and starting projects to get myself experience in Cyber Architecture and Compliance. Shortly before graduating, I was hired by Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren right here in the ODU Student Success Center. After three years of working, I finished my master’s degree and took my current position as the Cyber Engineering Lead. In the near future, I plan on beginning to teach. I enjoy teaching upcoming professionals and hope to continue to make a positive impact by supporting students’ dreams.