Setting the Blue and Gold Standard in Cyberspace

College of Business, Security and Intelligence Cyber Intelligence and Security Department Prescott, Arizona, Campus Embry-Riddle Aeronuatical University

PRESCOTT, ARIZONA

FOR CYBERSPACE

CYBER INTELLIGENCE & SECURITY

We educate and motivate the next generation of cyber professionals to meet 21st-century challenges.

LETTER FROM THE DEAN

A warm welcome to the College of Business, Security and Intelligence (CBSI) — the nation’s only educational institution dedicated to serving the evolving national and global interests and needs that require a fusion of these disciplines.

Embry-Riddle

and crucial topics such as aviation cybersecurity, cyber-physical security, Internet of Things (IoT) security and artificial intelligence. Our commitment to hands-on, direct- application learning equips students for pivotal 21st-century challenges, offering first-hand insights from faculty with extensive academic, industry and government experience. Alongside outstanding faculty that challenge our students and state-of-the-art cyber facilities like the Cyber Lab and Cyber Gym Makerspace, our focus on real-world interdisciplinary learning sets us apart. At CBSI, students engage in research and team projects, often in collaboration with leading industry partners supported by our Cyber Fund for Excellence. In this publication, we celebrate success and share glimpses of CBSI’s contributions to cyberspace. It would be my privilege to initiate a deeper conversation about our shared goals and the potential for future collaborations.

Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus, founded in 1978, offers 25

undergraduate and three graduate programs with a diverse enrollment of over 3,264 students. Our Department of Cyber Intelligence and Security is a trailblazer, positioning the Embry-Riddle Prescott Campus as a DHS/ NSA Center of Academic Excellence for Cyber Defense, an ABET-accredited* cyber program and a crucial player in the U.S. Cyber Command Academic Engagement Network. Since 2013, the department has seen consistent growth in student enrollment, including a rising number of women, and has graduated over 250 students who are now making a difference and lasting impact across public, private and non-profit sectors. Securing prestigious grants from the U.S. Department of Defense and the National Science Foundation, we support full-ride scholarships for our students in cyber- related programs and activities, both within and outside the CBSI. These prestigious grants have also grown our cyber infrastructure and research in emerging

Dr. Thomas Drape Dean College of Business, Security and Intelligence

*The Bachelor of Science in Cyber Intelligence and Security is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET (abet.org/).

EMBRY-RIDDLE OVERVIEW

No matter what subject our students are passionate about pursuing, Embry-Riddle’s degree programs fuel success by combining hands-on experience and career-focused academics that prepare them to become the best and brightest in their fields.

Our courses are designed to meet real-world demands and respond to the changing situations around us, offering a trailblazing education that helps establish

As the world’s largest and most respected university specializing in aviation and aerospace, Embry-Riddle is at the forefront of cyber education and research in these and many other related economic sectors. With over 160,000 Eagle graduates around the globe, Embry-Riddle students are actively helping forge a new future every day.

our students as industry leaders. At Embry-Riddle, students gain

practical experience from the start, with opportunities to participate in research projects and industry internships, collaborate in global competitions and begin building their own professional networks. All of our programs offer the chance to learn on-the-job principles practiced by multinational companies and government agencies. This experience sets Embry-Riddle students apart in the field for internships and jobs. In the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, Embry-Riddle took on a leadership role in creating an academic program that focuses on training individuals who would become experts in counterterrorism and counterintelligence domestically and abroad. That initiative has resulted in a highly successful Department of Cyber Intelligence and Security housed today in the nation’s first College of Business, Security and Intelligence at the Prescott Campus.

EMBRY-RIDDLE ACADEMIC FACTS

95% of Embry-Riddle students are working or continuing their education within a year of graduating 160,000 alumni working around the world STUDENT FACTS 24% of CIS students are female Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1 21: Average age of CIS students LOCATION FACTS Elevation of 5,300+ ft. in the Bradshaw Mountains; natural beauty and outdoor adventure all around 50-mile Prescott Circle Trail goes through campus

Easy air access to Los Angeles, Denver and many other cities Phoenix, Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon and Sedona are all less than two hours away

MILITARY–FRIENDLY CAMPUS Certified Veteran-Supportive Campus GI Bill ® Yellow Ribbon Program Participant

GI Bill ® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at benefits.va.gov/gibill.

STATE OF THE CYBER DEPARTMENT

Celebrating remarkable growth, our Department of Cyber Intelligence and Security (CIS) stands as a beacon of excellence.

They have excelled in national cyber competitions, including securing the top spot in the 2024 NSA NCAE Cyber Games National Championship. These achievements strengthen our reputation and prepare our graduates for extraordinary success in their careers. In the past six years, the department has secured over $6.2 million in federal and industry funding, enabling collaboration on groundbreaking projects in areas like cyber- physical systems, the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence. We have established strong industry partnerships, providing our students with valuable career opportunities. Our outreach efforts, such as the pioneering aviation and space Capture-the-Flag competitions, set a high standard for educating students and professionals alike on aerospace cybersecurity challenges. In addition to traditional education, we have developed world-class training programs for cybersecurity professionals. As we reflect on the journey of our CIS department, our commitment to excellence has positioned us as a global leader in cybersecurity. We look forward to continuing our mission of shaping the next generation of cyber leaders, advancing research and education and contributing to securing cyberspace, aviation and aerospace.

Continuing the legacy of excellence at

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, our Department of Cyber Intelligence

and Security stands as a light for innovation and achievement in cyberspace. We are one of the few NSA-designated National Centers of Academic Excellence for Cybersecurity in the world that offers an ABET-accredited cybersecurity program. Our distinguished faculty and students are funded through prestigious grants and scholarships, including those offered through the Department of Defense Cyber Service Academy (DoD CSA) and Department of State Fellowship. We are the only National Science Foundation (NSF) CyberCorps ® Scholarship for Service institution for aviation and space cybersecurity, so our focus includes all computers that move — be it a vehicle on the road, flying up in the air, orbiting Earth or exploring outer space. We are also a proud member of the United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) Academic Engagement Network and RSAC® Security Scholar Program. The CIS department has become a leader in thought and practice, recognized for its impact on government, academia and industry. Our students have answered the call of national security through internships and jobs at federal agencies.

Dr. Krishna Sampigethaya Professor and Department Chair, Cyber Intelligence and Security

Graduates in the last ten years 250 +

DEPARTMENT INSIGHTS DHS and NSA National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense One of the world’s few ABET-accredited cybersecurity programs Recipient of DoD Cyber Service Academy grants Only NSF CyberCorps ® SFS institution for aviation and aerospace cybersecurity Offering the world’s only aviation cybersecurity competition Member of the RSAC ® Security Scholar Program Member of the U.S. Cyber Command Academic Engagement Network Funds for excellence from companies such as Aviation ISAC, The Boeing Company, Collins Aerospace and Lockheed Martin

PROGRAMS Bachelor of Science in Cyber Intelligence and Security Master of Science in Cyber Intelligence and Security

ENHANCING NATIONAL SECURITY WITH EXCELLENCE IN CYBERSECURITY EDUCATION

Embry-Riddle enjoys unique success with Department of Defense and National Science Foundation scholarships.

DoD CSA: Elevating Military Cyber Security Standards As proud recipients of over 16 scholarships from the DoD CSA since 2020, we play a pivotal role in stronger national security. Qualified students selected for the DoD CSA scholarship benefit from comprehensive support, receiving full-ride financial assistance and other benefits. Graduates commit to a cybersecurity role within the DoD, ensuring a supply of skilled professionals for key government agencies. The CIS department has mentored seven CSA scholars. In the past, we have boasted one of the highest numbers of CSA scholarships among fellow educational institutions nationally.

In an era where cybersecurity is vital to national security, our success with two prestigious and highly competitive scholarship programs — the Department of Defense (DoD) Cyber Service Academy (CSA), formerly known as Cyber Scholarship Program (CySP), and the National Science Foundation (NSF) CyberCorps ® Scholarship for Service (SFS) program — stands as a

testament to our commitment to excellence in this critical field.

Both scholarship programs address workforce shortages, turning academic institutions into cybersecurity hubs and fortifying the nation’s defenses. These initiatives are not only a demonstration of the U.S. government’s commitment to national cybersecurity but also a strategic investment in cultivating highly skilled professionals. The CIS department’s recognition in both the DoD CSA and NSF SFS scholarships sets Embry-Riddle apart as a distinguished leader. We are also the sole NSF SFS institution in the nation for aviation and aerospace cybersecurity. These distinctions underscore our dedication to excellence and position us as leaders in shaping the next generation of cybersecurity experts.

2024-25 Cyber Scholars (left to right): Cameron Devaney, Michael Boehm, Stephen Levy, Justin La Zare, Nathan Johnson, Kyle Wheaton, Noah Steele, Jesse Hix, Michael Doolan.

NSF CyberCorps ® SFS: Leading in Interdisciplinary Cybersecurity Education

Shaping the Future of Cybersecurity and the Nation Our dual success with DoD CSA and NSF SFS scholarships solidifies the CIS department’s standing as a pinnacle of cybersecurity education. This achievement reflects our commitment to producing skilled cybersecurity professionals and positions us as a critical contributor to the nation’s cybersecurity workforce. Our scholars get unparalleled learning experiences, mentorship and hands-on training. As they transition into roles within government agencies, they bring a wealth of knowledge, fresh perspectives and a commitment to securing the nation’s digital infrastructure. By nurturing top-tier professionals and contributing to the nation’s cybersecurity resilience, Embry-Riddle is helping set a high bar for educational excellence, ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation and defense.

The SFS program, a collaboration between the NSF and select universities, addresses the critical shortage of cyber professionals in government agencies. Students earn full-ride scholarships and commit to working for the government in return. Emphasizing interdisciplinary education, this SFS program prepares students

with technical skills and a broader understanding of ethical, legal and

social implications. Since 2022, the CIS department has awarded 17 scholarships.

TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF CYBER WARRIORS

The increasing demand for skilled cyber professionals means a wealth of opportunities for professionals entering the field. Embry-Riddle’s graduates are trained to face the challenges of this dynamic, rapidly evolving industry and become leaders within it.

State-of-the-Art Cyber Labs Give Students Crucial Practical Experience

Cyber Lab: Bridging Theory and Practice Our Cyber Lab transcends the

Hands-on education and research are foundational for shaping the next generation of cyber defenders. Recognizing this need, Embry-Riddle has continually enhanced its facilities over the last decade to provide cutting-edge resources for our cyber students and faculty. The state-of-the-art Cyber Lab and the recently opened Cyber Gym Makerspace are central to our commitment. These facilities, designed to be at the forefront of technology, collectively serve as the nucleus for immersive learning and groundbreaking research in cyber intelligence and security.

conventional computer-filled room; it is a dynamic, interactive classroom designed to bridge the gap between students and faculty as they engage with real-world cybersecurity scenarios. Instructors guide students through practical exercises, covering topics from setting up secure networks to identifying and mitigating cyber threats.

At the core of the Cyber Lab is an advanced server and networking infrastructure. Combined with

Preparing Cyber Intelligence and Security Leaders Our commitment extends beyond the classroom; we aim to train and shape future cyber experts and leaders. Graduates from our program possess not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills needed to navigate the complexities of cyberspace. The doors of our Cyber Lab and Cyber Gym are not just open — they are unlocking the future of cyber education and research, propelling our students toward success in tackling the evolving challenges of the digital and physical worlds.

industry-grade cybersecurity tools, this infrastructure provides a safe and controlled environment for students to experiment, analyze and simulate various cyber threats. As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, the lab now hosts an experimental networking rack generously donated by Juniper Networks. This addition will enhance hands-on learning in computer networking and security courses. Cyber Gym Makerspace: Fostering Creativity and Collaboration The Cyber Gym Makerspace emphasizes a hands-on, do-it-yourself approach to learning and creation. It serves as a hub for students to engage in faculty- mentored projects, sharing resources and knowledge, and as a place for the department to showcase projects and build industry connections. The Cyber Gym is equipped with cutting- edge software and hardware, including a deep-learning AI server. It encourages

participants to explore new ideas, experiment and bring their creative visions to life.

This inclusive space fosters a collaborative atmosphere, mirroring real-world scenarios where diverse teams address complex cybersecurity issues. The Cyber Gym is not confined to student education – it also serves as a research center for our cyber faculty. This synergy between hands-on education and research creates a feedback loop that enriches both teaching practices and the overall knowledge base of the cybersecurity field.

The Cyber Gym Makerspace gives me the opportunity to work out and build a flight simulation environment and an avionics test platform that allows investigation of aircraft and crew cybersecurity. Few institutions offer such opportunities in undergraduate cyber programs!”

Nathan Johnson (’25) B.S. in Cyber Intelligence and Security Collins Aerospace Intern

PIONEERING AVIATION CYBERSECURITY INITIATIVES IN THE INDUSTRY

Enhancing awareness and training of industry in aviation cybersecurity through impactful initiatives and events.

This diverse participation highlights the interdisciplinary nature of aviation cybersecurity and the collaborative approach taken by the CIS department.

The First Global Aviation Cybersecurity Competition

Since 2019, we have pioneered the first and only aviation cybersecurity Capture the Flag (CTF) competition. Developed by students under faculty mentorship, our CTF competition travels to premier events such as DEF CON, the Aviation ISAC Summit and the DoD-FAA-DHS Aviation Cyber Initiative Cyber Rodeo. Embry-Riddle has hosted CTF at industry headquarters, including Southwest Airlines and Collins Aerospace. Open to professionals and university students alike, our CTF has continuously evolved over the past five years, integrating cutting-edge innovations and technologies to create an unparalleled, immersive experience in aviation cybersecurity.

As the driving force behind Embry-Riddle becoming the sole institution recognized by the National Science Foundation’s Scholarship for Service program focused on aviation cybersecurity, the CIS department has led the way in this critical field. Our commitment to aviation cybersecurity education is evident through the organization of international competitions, hosting industry events in collaboration with major aerospace companies and providing hands-on experiences for students. These initiatives contribute to the education and professional development of students and foster collaboration between academia and industry to address the unique challenges posed by cybersecurity in the aviation sector. The student teams involved in these initiatives include individuals from various disciplines, such as cybersecurity, software engineering, aerospace engineering and aviation.

Everyone learned something new related to aviation from this CTF. The CTF was a great educational and team-building experience for cybersecurity aviation beginners and professionals.”

Ray Howard Senior Systems Engineer Southwest Airlines

Influencing a Tri-Chaired Government Initiative: DoD-FAA-DHS Aviation Cyber Rodeo CTF Since 2023, the CIS department has been at the center of a tri-chaired U.S. government initiative, offering its CTF competition to the employees of agencies and industries responsible for protecting the nation against cyber threats. Embry-Riddle plays a pivotal role in the joint Aviation Cyber Initiative, led by the Department of Defense (DoD), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Embry-Riddle organized a Cyber Rodeo event at its Daytona Beach Campus, with the CIS department spearheading the CTF competition event. The objective was clear: to enlighten the aviation, security and safety communities on crucial cyber intelligence and security issues. The winning team emerged as ROTC cadets from cyber programs at the Prescott Campus and the FAA team earned second place, showcasing the diverse talents within the initiative.

Hosting the CTF at Premier Industry Events: A-ISAC Summits, DEF CON, Southwest Airlines and Collins Aerospace The CIS department has hosted the aviation cyber CTF in person at various venues since 2022, including the Aviation ISAC Summit, DEF CON’s Aerospace Village, Collins Aerospace headquarters in Iowa and Southwest Airlines headquarters in Texas. The CTF has also traveled internationally with CIS faculty and students, reaching Ireland in 2023 and Switzerland in the fall of 2025. The CTF competition has engaged hundreds of professionals from cybersecurity, IT, safety, security and aerospace backgrounds across global organizations. Major airlines, including American Airlines, JetBlue, Lufthansa, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines, have also benefited from the experience. Several of these visits have provided CIS students unique opportunities to interact with a diverse network of experts and industry leaders while exploring cutting- edge facilities. The international travel experiences have further enriched their learning and created lasting memories.

Read more about the workshop

DRIVING CYBERSECURITY FORWARD IN THE FUTURE OF TRANSPORTATION

With vehicles becoming more connected, cybersecurity threats are on the rise.

Hands-On Learning with the RAMN Board

CIS students are also developing their skills through hands-on training with the Resistant Automotive Miniature Network (RAMN) board and creating the first CTF challenge of its kind in the world. This educational tool simulates real-world vehicle systems, allowing students to test hacking and defense techniques in a controlled environment. CTF exercises using the RAMN board enhance the participant’s understanding of cyberattacks on vehicle networks and prepare them to implement effective security measures.

Our CIS students are actively working to secure cars, trucks, drones and other advanced air mobility vehicles from cyber- physical attacks that could disrupt safety and operations of computers that move. Tackling Automotive Cyber Threats CIS students have engaged with government and industry leaders at major events addressing cybersecurity challenges in transportation. At the Cyber Truck Challenge, students collaborated with experts to analyze vulnerabilities in freight trucks, recognizing the potential impact of compromised vehicles on supply chains. Similarly, the Cyber Auto Challenge provided insights into securing modern cars against threats targeting their interconnected systems. The Cyber Drone Challenge highlighted the emerging risks associated with uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), including signal jamming and identity spoofing.

Shaping the Future of Transportation Security

Through research, industry collaboration and practical training, the CIS department is equipping students with a unique expertise that enables them to address evolving cybersecurity threats in transportation. Their participation in cutting- edge projects ensures they are prepared to lead in securing the future of transportation technologies and critical infrastructure.

AI-ENABLED CYBER INTELLIGENCE AND SECURITY RESEARCH

The CIS department has engaged in research to harness machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) for enhancing threat intelligence and cybersecurity.

The establishment of advanced facilities in the department’s Cyber Lab and Cyber Gym, such as a deep learning server, is expected to accelerate future research in this domain. AI- and ML-Enabled Cyber Aids for Crew This project aims to use ML and AI to enhance the situational awareness and decision making of pilots and air traffic controllers facing cyber threats. The focus is on integrating crew-based cybersecurity engagement as a crucial layer to bolster the resilience of aircraft and ATC systems against cyber and cyber-physical attacks

leading to drone misbehavior, and the limitations of traditional security solutions, such as virtual private networks. The project explores the use of ML for intrusion detection. ML Applications in Threat Intelligence This project explores ML techniques to identify and classify potential malware files. The project compares the assembly (machine code) of files, eliminating the need to execute malicious code. In the realm of AI-assisted intrusion detection, large data models can help enhance the effectiveness of industry-standard tools. The incorporation of ML aims to mitigate the risks of false results.

AI- and ML-Enabled Penetration Testing

Penetration testing is an effective method used to proactively address network vulnerabilities. However, existing challenges include time-consuming processes, susceptibility to human error and a shortage of qualified professionals. To overcome these challenges, this project proposes integrating ML techniques to automate pentest processes and interpret results. The approach is a collaboration between ML and human testers to enhance quality in shorter timeframes. ML-Based Intrusion Detection for Drones and Communications This project focuses on cybersecurity challenges faced by uncrewed aircraft systems, specifically focusing on the vulnerability of their command-and-control network protocols. It highlights the potential risks, such as packet injection

4 th Our students ranked

Our students won the 2024 National Center of Academic Excellence (NCAE) Cyber Games Championship.

fourth overall out of 130 participating teams in the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2021 CyberForce competition.

ENABLING STUDENTS TO EXCEL IN CYBERSECURITY COMPETITIONS AND CONFERENCES

The achievements of CIS department students go beyond participation in conferences and winning cyber competitions.

As we continue to shape the future of cybersecurity education, we’re empowering students to engage with the industry and be cyber leaders of tomorrow. Cyber Competitions: A Journey of Excellence Our students have showcased their skills by excelling in cyber competitions. Whether it’s Capture-the-Flag (CTF) competitions, hackathons or other challenges, our students have proven themselves. Their achievements speak volumes – securing high rankings in multiple competitions and consistently showcasing exceptional technical prowess. For example, at the state level, in the Tracer Forensic and Incident Response Exercise (FIRE) competition offered twice by the Sandia National Labs at our Prescott Campus, our student teams ranked in the top three in 2022 and 2023 in Arizona and Nevada. In the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2021 CyberForce competition, our students ranked fourth overall out of 130 participating teams and distinguished themselves as the top-ranking undergraduates. They showcased their exceptional capabilities in a highly competitive field predominantly composed of graduate student teams. Their success showcased individual excellence and the strength of our ABET-accredited undergraduate cybersecurity program. In the 2023 International Cyber League Collegiate Cup, our students made a mark by finishing fourth among 100 teams worldwide. This global recognition

highlighted individual brilliance and positioned Embry-Riddle’s CIS among the top players in international cybersecurity education. Most recently, in the 2024 NCAE Cyber Games Regional and National Championship, our students claimed the No.1 position, further cementing their reputation for excellence. These achievements demonstrate the dedication of our students to mastering cybersecurity, their depth of expertise, their ability to compete at the highest levels and the effectiveness of their education.

Cybersecurity Conferences Empower Holistic Growth for Students Our students increasingly recognize the value of attending industry conferences to enhance their knowledge and connect with professionals. Among these conferences, RSA, DEF CON and Women in Cybersecurity stand out as key events. They serve as platforms for our students to engage with industry leaders, participate in hands-on learning and gain real-world insights.

Women in our cyber programs have the opportunity to attend the Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) Conference, where they connect with like-minded individuals and industry leaders who champion representation in cyber fields. They get to hear inspiring success stories, participate in mentorship programs and engage in discussions on breaking down barriers. The conference equips them with the tools and confidence to navigate the cybersecurity landscape and make meaningful contributions to the field. RSAC Security Scholar Program: A Triumph of the CIS Department and Its Students Embry-Riddle is among the select institutions invited to be part of the esteemed RSAC Security Scholar Program, granting us the privilege of nominating students for an all-expenses- paid journey to the RSA Conference. The selection of our CIS student poster presentations was among the top four at the RSAC Security Scholar program in both 2023 and 2024, underscoring the exceptional quality of our cyber program as one of the nation’s best. Attending RSAC as a Security Scholar, our students benefit from exclusive access to mentorship opportunities, specialized research sessions and networking events with top professionals in the industry. This unique experience enhances their understanding of the cybersecurity landscape and solidifies their position as emerging leaders in the field.

The RSA Conference serves as a gateway to the latest industry innovations by bringing together professionals and thought leaders to showcase cutting-edge solutions and provide a holistic view of the landscape. Attending the RSAC College Day enabled our students to learn about emerging threats, cloud security, AI, advancements in cryptography and strategies to safeguard digital assets. Interacting with industry experts has created valuable networking opportunities for them and the CIS department. The DEF CON conference has enabled our students to see the value of staying one step ahead of the cyber threat by learning the darker side of cybersecurity. They have been able to test their abilities in real-world scenarios, from hacking a small circuit board to breaking complex AI algorithms. The conference’s informal atmosphere has allowed our students to exchange ideas and experiences with seasoned professionals and fellow enthusiasts.

EMPOWERING EXCELLENCE IN CYBERSECURITY

Focused on training a diverse pool of professionals to confront the escalating challenges in cyberspace.

Women in the CIS department are not merely participants; they are carving out their space, breaking barriers and excelling in roles once predominantly occupied by men. We remain committed to enrolling female students and empowering them to excel. Over the last decade, the representation of women in our cybersecurity programs has gradually increased, with women today comprising more than 20% of our enrolled student population. Reflecting our commitment to diversity and merit, our cyber faculty includes 43% women, and our merit-based DoD CSA and NSF SFS scholar pool has been up to 50% women.

We have supported local Girl Scouts troops in cybersecurity badge activities. Recognizing the importance of fostering interest in STEM fields from an early age, we provide resources, expertise and a conducive learning environment for the Girl Scouts to engage in meaningful cybersecurity experiences and spark curiosity and enthusiasm. We also established the first Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) club in the state of Arizona in 2019 to enhance women’s engagement in the field. Grace Tevaseu, our inaugural DoD CSA scholar from the class of 2022, transitioned into cybersecurity from her initial career plans in oceanography, exemplifying the diverse paths women can take in this field.

MICHAEL BOEHM (’26)

JUSTIN LA ZARE (’25)

THE FINAL FRONTIER SECURING SPACE:

Embry-Riddle students are at the forefront of space cybersecurity, collaborating with NASA and others to protect space operations from digital threats. Through the National Science Foundation’s CyberCorps ® Scholarship for Service program, students have worked with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to analyze vulnerabilities in satellite systems and AI tools used in space missions.

Enhancing AI Security and Safety in Space Missions Another critical area of CIS research focuses on securing AI-driven systems in space and other application domains, ensuring that autonomous operations remain reliable and protected from manipulation. For example, CIS student Justin La Zare has developed AI-based prototypes capable of safeguarding mission-sensitive data and assessed the capability and limitations of large language model-based agents to help with mission- critical decision making. He and other CIS students will continue to contribute to the future of secure space exploration. Through hands-on experience and collaboration with NASA experts, CIS students are gaining the skills necessary to address the evolving cybersecurity challenges of aerospace technology.

Protecting Satellites from Cyber Threats

CIS students such as Michael Boehm have assessed the security of spacecraft software frameworks, identifying and addressing weaknesses that could allow attackers to disrupt satellite operations. By developing security measures such as command authentication and encrypted communication channels, they have helped strengthen spacecraft resilience against cyber threats.

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

JESSE HIX, (’24, ’26)

Hix is is completing a double major in Cyber Intelligence and Security and Global Security and Intelligence Studies. In addition, she is minoring in Mandarin Chinese and Defense Studies. Jesse demonstrates a strong commitment to pursuing a government career in cybersecurity, inspired by a background with military and first responder parents. Jesse has engaged in summer internships at Peraton and in cybersecurity research projects, authoring security publications at age 17. Her leadership skills come from her experience as an Army ROTC cadet and an assistant cross-country coach. She is the youngest NSF SFS scholar from the CIS department. Jesse recognizes the SFS scholarship as a valuable opportunity to achieve her educational and professional aspirations in the cyber intelligence and security field.