STEPHENVILLE, Texas \u2014 A dedicated team of Tarleton State University students work daily to protect the institution from online threats. Their efforts within the student-led Security Operations Center (SOC) are highlighted during October, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The SOC protects a wide range of sensitive data from an ever-growing list of cyber risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The team that began with just one student worker in 2021 now has seven: Katie Belding, Kerrigan Brown, Ashlynn Cochran, Jonah Whites, Ian Gardner, Christian Fijer and Aiden Galloway. They take on responsibilities comparable to full-time employees and are widely recognized for their professionalism and technical expertise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Russel Thompson, Tarleton State\u2019s Manager of Cybersecurity Operations, leads the student team. The SOC\u2019s full-time cybersecurity team includes Cory Shaw, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO); Makaila Judkins, Security Analyst I; Jacob Hutson, Security Analyst II; and Jackie George, Policy Analyst III.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe SOC provides an essential service to the university,\u201d Thompson said. \u201cWith the increasing number of threat actors targeting our institution, our student cybersecurity analysts are essential in safeguarding user data while maintaining the integrity and reputation of Tarleton State University.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shaw added: \u201cWe work to ensure the security of educational records, grades and personally identifiable information for both students and employees. We also protect data within our on-campus medical and counseling services and ensure that faculty research and intellectual property remain secure.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whites, a senior majoring in software engineering, serves as a student security analyst within the SOC. His responsibilities include monitoring campus accounts, performing asset remediation and collaborating with clients to protect the university\u2019s systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWhen I joined the SOC, my goal was to build upon the technical foundation I developed at the campus service desk and gain real-world experience in cybersecurity,\u201d Whites said. \u201cOver the past year and a half, I\u2019ve deepened my understanding of security principles and risk management through hands-on applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis role has allowed me to develop critical skills in identifying threats, analyzing vulnerabilities and leading remediation efforts. I\u2019ve also had the opportunity to collaborate directly with full-time staff and contribute to maintaining the overall security posture of Tarleton State\u2019s IT environment.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Shaw, SOC student analysts receive not only experiential learning opportunities but also professional development such as resume reviews and mock interviews.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cEvery student who has stayed in IT or cybersecurity here has gone on to find employment,\u201d Shaw said. \u201cAs more students complete the SOC program and enter the workforce, it strengthens our professional network for future job placements and references.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cCybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing industries,\u201d Thompson said. \u201cIt needs skilled professionals to defend against the ever-growing landscape of threat actors. We collaborate with major employers and government agencies to place our students after graduation, including the United States military, Texas Department of Information Resources, Dick\u2019s Sporting Goods, and through alumni connections at the National Security Agency, the city of Fort Worth and Tarrant County.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shaw emphasized the importance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month as an opportunity to reinforce safe online practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt\u2019s an important reminder. We take every opportunity to share cybersecurity tips during tax season, the holidays and beyond to help people keep their personal information secure.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The campaign, administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security\u2019s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, is designed to improve public awareness of digital risks and promote stronger security practices.\u202f<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The month-long campaign encourages using the \u201cCore 4\u201d habits: strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, updating software and reporting scams to create a safer online environment for individuals and critical infrastructure.\u202f<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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