By Eddie Johnson, Student and Alumni Affairs Intern and JR Morton, Student and Alumni Affairs Liaison
Today’s cybersecurity is even more challenging than ever before, due to the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, bring your own devices (BYOD) and cloud services. It is a field that is ever-evolving and requires a proactive approach.
For University alumnus Dave Ruiz, cybersecurity is not just a job, but a calling. It aligns with his desire to protect and serve others.
Struggles and Triumphs in Higher Education
During his long career and several deployments in the U.S. Army, Dave’s work involved many aspects of cybersecurity. For example, he conducted vulnerability assessments, put cybersecurity polices in place to protect information and trained others by providing cybersecurity education.
In May 2022, Dave separated from the Army and began working as a part-time contractor for Holt Data Solutions. Later, he moved on to become a cybersecurity leader for Fayetteville Public Works Communication.
However, Dave faced significant challenges in completing his bachelor’s degree at traditional universities. The inflexible nature of in-person classes and course schedules conflicted with his job, often causing delays in his educational progress.
As a result, Dave looked for online courses and found the University. He then completed a bachelor’s degree in IT management and went on to earn a master’s degree in IT information assurance and security.
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 crucial for success.”
Dave’s experience fueled his desire to give back to the community that provided him with support. He is actively involved in the University community and holds multiple roles, including:
- President of the Technology Professionals Group
- University Ambassador
- Alumni Advisory Council member
- Technology advisor to various student organizations
- Commencement volunteer
Advice to Future Cybersecurity Students
Dave’s future goals include coaching, mentoring, and motivating others who are on their path to academic success. He says, “Authenticity is key to being an effective mentor and educator. In today’s world, where learners 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 that some of the most useful certifications include:
- CompTIA Security+®
- Certified Information Systems 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®)
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP®)
- GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC®)
For students who want to enter cybersecurity, he advises, “Make sure to research your options and select the one that best fits your end 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 the 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 the 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 nonprofit structured around communication and life skills that will encourage local youth to be valuable citizens in their communities.
John Robert Morton is a Student & Alumni Affairs Liaison and has been with the University for 14 years. His bachelor’s degree in European history is from Troy University in Troy, Alabama. He also completed 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 sustaining lifelong relationships with university alumni by providing engaging opportunities to stay involved and connected. We work closely with various stakeholders to strengthen 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 sustain relationships with alumni along their personal and professional journeys. We actively look for 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 remain actively involved, please contact alumni@apus.edu and speak with a member of the team.
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