Jennifer Kleman

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So far Jennifer Kleman has created 22 blog entries.

CyberWorks Alumni Profile: William Mechler

CyberWorks grad William Mechler

William Mechler, Master Police Officer, Tampa area

William Mechler has worked in law enforcement his entire adult life. During that time, he has observed a significant trend: almost all crimes now have a digital connection.

“Whether the device is the medium for the crime or there’s a piece of evidence that links the criminal to the crime scene via router interrogations and IP address geolocating, almost every crime has a link to something cyber,” he explained.

A few years ago, William turned to the internet to find educational opportunities to enhance his cyber skills, not only to help catch criminals but also to seamlessly transition into his next career upon retirement from law enforcement. He has completed several cyber courses through various organizations and has been given opportunities to teach classes, which he loves. “I have a passion for empowering others with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity,” he said.

Through his experience with Cyber Florida’s CyberWorks program, William gained hands-on cyber skills he could use immediately at work and much more. “The most valuable skill I gained from the program isn’t even related to cybersecurity at all,” he said. “Every one of the programs I attended focused on networking without us even realizing it.” Cyber Florida provided a career coach, dynamic guest speakers, and recruiters to ensure participants had the best shot at securing employment in cybersecurity.

“Everyone in the program invests so much time and effort into helping you succeed,” William said about his CyberWorks experience. “You will not fail unless you don’t ask for help or give up on yourself.”

William is now well-known for his cybersecurity knowledge and teaching abilities, which has led to consulting opportunities and invitations to speak at several conferences. He has received several job offers for when he retires in a few years.

Ready to learn more about CyberWorks? Visit https://cyberflorida.org/cyberworks/.
2024-08-06T09:59:05-04:00August 6, 2024|
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Cyber Florida Launches Timely Cybersecurity Policy Podcast

chat:CYBR podcast graphic

chat:CYBR offers expert insights and discussion for daily life

August 6, 2024—Tampa, Fla—Cyber Florida at USF has launched chat:CYBR, Cyber Florida’s policy podcast, dedicated to exploring the intersection of cybersecurity and policy making. chat:CYBR delves into the complex landscape of cybersecurity policy, offering expert insights and discussions on the most pressing issues facing today’s digital world.

From debates on data privacy and encryption to discussions on defending critical infrastructure and combating cybercrime, chat:CYBR equips leaders with the knowledge and understanding needed to make informed decisions and shape effective cybersecurity policies. Whether a legislator crafting new laws, a government official implementing cybersecurity strategies, or a policy advisor navigating the complexities of digital security, chat:CYBR is the go-to resource for staying ahead in the evolving realm of cybersecurity policy.

Join Cyber Florida hosts James Jacobs and Jordan Deiuliis as they unravel the challenges, explore innovative solutions, and chart the course toward a safer and more resilient digital future. Each episode takes you beyond the jargon and technical details, focusing on how cyber policy impacts our daily lives, businesses, and communities. chat:CYBR offers clear, accessible insights to keep you informed and empowered in the digital age so listeners can discover how new policies might affect their online behavior, what businesses need to know to stay compliant, and how governments are shaping the future of cybersecurity.

chat:CYBR podcasts can be found on the Cyber Florida website at https://cyberflorida.org/chatcybr/, on the Cyber Florida YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@cybersecurityfl, or on your favorite podcast platforms.

ABOUT CYBER FLORIDA
The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at the University of South Florida, commonly referred to as Cyber Florida at USF, was established by the Florida Legislature in 2014. Its mission is to position Florida as a national leader in cybersecurity through comprehensive education, cutting-edge research, and extensive outreach. Cyber Florida leads various initiatives to inspire and educate both current and future cybersecurity professionals, advance applied research, and enhance cybersecurity awareness and safety of individuals and organizations.

2024-08-08T14:47:44-04:00August 6, 2024|
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Operational Technology Defender Fellowship Program

Elite Training for Energy Sector Front-Line Managers

The application for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER) Operational Technology (OT) Defender Fellowship Program is open through August 29, 2024. This prestigious program aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of middle- and senior-level OT security managers within the U.S. energy sector, playing a crucial role in safeguarding our nation’s energy infrastructure.

About the Fellowship:

Protecting the nation’s energy infrastructure from modern threats is essential for maintaining national security, a vibrant economy, and public health and safety. Security managers are the first line of defense against cyber-enabled sabotage and physical security breaches, tackling challenges from financially motivated material theft to sophisticated cyber-attacks.

To better equip these front-line managers, the OT Defender Fellowship Program provides an intensive educational experience. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the cyber strategies and tactics used by adversarial state and nonstate actors targeting U.S. energy infrastructure, as well as insights into the U.S. government’s countermeasures.

Program Highlights:

  • Sponsorship and Hosting: The fellowship is sponsored by the DOE and hosted by Idaho National Laboratory (INL), with support from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation (CCTI).
  • Target Audience: The program is designed for security managers in U.S. energy sector organizations who hold decision-making authority and oversight responsibility for operational technology systems.
  • Commitment: Fellows are required to attend quarterly in-person seminars, complete assigned activities between seminars, and promote information sharing. Participants must be U.S. citizens and eligible to hold an active federal security clearance.

For more information on the OT Defender Fellowship Program and how to apply, please visit https://otdefender.inl.gov/.

2024-08-05T16:14:30-04:00August 5, 2024|
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High School CyberCon Builds Community for Future Cybersecurity Workforce

USF High School CyberCon
University of South Florida’s Annual High School CyberCon Youth Experience Summer Camp

The University of South Florida’s (USF) annual High School CyberCon youth experience summer camp is a week-long immersive experience, supported by passionate educators and volunteers. The program is designed to offer many fun and engaging opportunities to explore technology, talk to professionals about their work, and discover the multitude of interesting career paths available.

High School CyberCon offers a unique opportunity for students in grades 9-12 to dive deep into the world of ethical hacking and cybersecurity. Supported by local cybersecurity industry leaders, participants explore various careers while networking with professionals in the Tampa-area cybersecurity community. The program’s curriculum is enriched by resources from Florida CyberHub and lesson plans from the Florida Center for Instructional Technology.

Throughout the week, students engage in hands-on technical workshops, attend lectures from industry leaders, and network with cybersecurity students and professionals. The camp provides a conference-like experience, allowing students to select sessions presented by various experts and participate in interactive activities.

A Glimpse into High School CyberCon

The camp schedule is packed with informative and engaging sessions, with a different focus every day:

Monday: Introduction to Operating Systems
Tuesday: Introduction to Networking
Wednesday: Introduction to Vulnerabilities
Thursday: Introduction to Open Source Intelligence (OSINT)
Friday: Cybersecurity Workforce Panel

Student Experiences

The impact of CyberCon is best understood through the voices of its participants. Ayaan Bhadouria, a 10th grader from Carrollwood Day School, shares his excitement: “I like the feel of cybersecurity. There are so many cool things about this camp you can’t find anywhere else. Everyone at camp is friendly and welcoming, making me want to try new things and learn more.”

Emily Haack, a 10th grader from Central High School, was encouraged by her parents to attend CyberCon. Already comfortable with technology from her STEM-focused middle school, Emily finds joy in programming and coding. “It’s kinda like art; you can create anything your mind and heart want to make and help people,” she says. For Emily, the best part of camp is the people, enhancing the learning experience through networking and fun.

Rocco Conte, a 12th grader from Wiregrass Ranch High School, is passionate about a career in cybersecurity. Rocco has attended CyberCon for three consecutive summers. “I feel like I belong,” she says. “The camp community is incredible, and I look forward to every day.” Rocco’s curiosity and problem-solving skills shine in activities like hardware hacking and capturing packets over the internet.

The Visionaries Behind High School CyberCon

Nathan Fisk, the camp’s founder and co-director, and an Associate Professor of Cybersecurity Education at USF, emphasizes the importance of building connections and community. “What matters is the connection to real people,” he says. “The students don’t remember everything we share this week, but they remember the connections they made.”

Julian Maguregui, Assistant Director, Operations, Florida Center for Instructional Technology echoes these sentiments. “The USF High School CyberCon aims to build a supportive community for high school students interested in cybersecurity by showcasing various career pathways. We achieve this by bringing together USF departments, colleges, student organizations, and cybersecurity professionals from both the public, private and military sectors.”

Partners Make the Difference

Camp leaders appreciate the many local cybersecurity professionals who join the fun, which grows larger each year. Volunteers conduct workshops, mentor students, and share their career experiences. With partners like Neon Temple, CISCO, Microsoft, and many more, the camp is able to offer a rich and diverse learning environment.

Brad Jungemann, a public sector account manager, is one of 10 volunteers who assisted this year from CISCO, a company that fully supports volunteer days away from work. He highlights the sense of community and the impact of professionals who volunteer. “This camp and the professionals who volunteer will have an impact on these students for their lives and careers for many years to come,” Brad says. The CISCO volunteers have professional roles in network engineering, AI, cybersecurity, and more.

Camp counselor Mars Barns agrees that having industry professionals involved makes a difference. “It’s a unique space; students won’t be bored! With professionals here volunteering their time, we can be flexible and customize to students’ interests.”

Empowering the Next Generation

High School CyberCon is more than just a camp; it’s a launchpad for future cybersecurity leaders. By fostering a passion for cybersecurity, building a supportive community, and providing hands-on experience, High School CyberCon empowers students to explore and pursue careers in this dynamic field. As we look to the future, programs like this camp are essential in preparing the next generation to defend and innovate in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.

Thank you to our camp partners for sharing their expertise:
CISCO
Citi
Fizen Technology
HSB
IEEE Computer Society – student chapter at USF
Microsoft
Mitre
Neon Temple
Tampa Electric
The 502 Project
The University of Tampa
U.S. Secret Service
UPS
USF Federal Credit Union
USF Information Technology

2024-08-16T13:58:16-04:00July 24, 2024|
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CyberWorks Alumni Profile: Amber Waters

Amber Waters, CyberWorks alumna

Amber Waters, Junior Cybersecurity Analyst, Home Depot, Tampa

In 2022, Amber Waters was a full-time student at USF and a full-time employee in health care. The 31-year-old veteran was enrolled in a Health Information Technology degree program with an eye toward entering the cybersecurity field. She knew she needed hands-on experience in cybersecurity to secure a good job but wasn’t sure how to do that when, “Boom! I saw New Skills for a New Fight promoted on LinkedIn,” Amber said.

The 22-week program, now known as CyberWorks, was designed specifically for veterans looking to reskill. With grant funding available to cover the cost for all participants, Amber saw an opportunity she couldn’t pass up.

“I am a lifelong learner and had maxed out my capabilities at work. I was bored!” Amber recalled. From her research, she knew cybersecurity, with its constant need for problem-solving and innovation, was her future career goal.

She applied to the program, was accepted, and added the course to her already heavy schedule. Time management became crucial. Despite difficult times when she fell behind, the support from Cyber Florida staff helped her complete the program and gain confidence to pursue a career in cybersecurity.

In addition to the hands-on experience available through the virtual machines and lab work, the program taught foundational skills and soft skills such as networking and resume building. Amber met and learned from various cybersecurity professionals, hearing about their experiences. She realized there were many career paths in cybersecurity she could pursue.

Securing her first job in cybersecurity did not happen overnight, however. She continued to network, meet with mentors, and research companies that aligned with her own values. It wasn’t until she attended a Cyb(H)er Ally brunch that she really felt at home and made connections that led to her first cybersecurity job offer. The course prepared her well to enter the workforce as a tier 1 security operation center (SOC) analyst. This role suits her perfectly, as she enjoys learning and doing “a little bit of everything.”

Amber now enjoys the flexibility of working from home in a dynamic and rewarding career. She appreciates the security of knowing she will be able to advance in her field as she continues to learn and grow.

Ready to learn more about CyberWorks? Visit https://cyberflorida.org/cyberworks/.
2024-07-26T10:41:34-04:00July 22, 2024|
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Teacher Spotlight: Tanisha Richardson

Tanisha Richardson

Teacher: Tanisha Richardson

School: Lauderhill 6-12 STEM-MED Magnet School

County: Broward

Tanisha is a dynamic educator who has been making waves within Broward County Public Schools since 2018. Based at Lauderhill 6-12 STEM-MED Magnet School, Tanisha has been instrumental in shaping the minds of young learners, particularly in the exciting realm of computer science and cybersecurity.

With a thirst for knowledge and a drive for excellence, Tanisha embarked on her journey into cybersecurity education while pursuing her second master’s degree in Cybersecurity Management. Her dedication to staying at the forefront of the field is evident through her attainment of industry certifications, including the Information Technology Specialist certification in Cybersecurity and the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Cybersecurity certification.

Tanisha is currently on the path to further bolster her expertise as an ISC2 Candidate, aiming for additional cybersecurity certification and pursuing the AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification.

Tanisha’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. She has coached and led Broward County’s first and only team to participate in the inaugural Florida Cyber Launch competition. Her passion for fostering talent and interest in cybersecurity education is further demonstrated as she prepares to launch the first CyberForce Elite Team, a cybersecurity club at her school, in the upcoming academic year.

With Tanisha’s passion for cybersecurity, her unwavering commitment to lifelong learning, and her extensive professional background, she stands as a beacon of inspiration and excellence within both the education sector and the cybersecurity industry, leaving an indelible mark on the students she guides and the field she serves.

2024-08-19T11:42:56-04:00July 15, 2024|
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Teacher Spotlight: Eric Koff

Eric Koff

Teacher: Eric Koff

School: Andrew Jackson High School of Advanced Technology

County: Duval

Eric is one of our rockstar teachers in Duval County where he serves as the lead teacher for the Andrew Jackson High School Cybersecurity Master Academy in Jacksonville. This is his fifth year at AJHS, where they became a Master Academy in 2023.

They are doing incredible things at Andrew Jackson to ensure their students graduate at the highest level of college and career readiness. Eric’s students are learning the fundamentals of computer and network security, the essentials of modern cybersecurity principles, and operational cybersecurity which focuses on ethical hacking and the basics of penetration testing.

Seniors have the opportunity to graduate with industry certifications in CompTIA Tech+ and CompTIA Security+ and also participate in soft skills workshops, resume reviews, and mock interviews.

They have also built partnerships with leading regional employers that offer students internship opportunities. The academy is visited throughout the year by industry guest speakers and student experiences extend beyond the school walls through field trips to industry sites.

The Andrew Jackson High School of Advanced Technology and the Cybersecurity Master Academy is a leader in northeast Florida where a quality IT education is provided for every student every day.

We are so grateful for Eric’s expertise and his dedication to cybersecurity education!

2024-08-19T11:43:50-04:00July 15, 2024|
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Innovative Virtual Cyber Program for Florida Public Schools

Teaching Digital Natives

Cyber Florida and Teaching Digital Natives Introduce Innovative Virtual Cyber Program for Florida Public Schools

No-cost curriculum supports Florida legislative requirements

July 15, 2024—Tampa, Fla— The Florida Center for Cybersecurity, also known as Cyber Florida at USF, and Teaching Digital Natives are delighted to introduce a collaboration to bring a new program to Florida Public Schools, titled Cyber Hygiene and Digital Citizenship. Developed by Teaching Digital Natives, this innovative virtual learning program features a gamified, interactive virtual reality environment designed for elementary and middle school-aged students.

In response to recent Florida legislation, the program includes curriculum covering social media etiquette to meet the mandated requirements for instruction on the social, emotional, and physical effects of social media.

To encourage students to learn about good cybersecurity practices and consider cybersecurity as a potential career path, Cyber Florida at USF is sponsoring a substantial number of seats on a first come – first serve basis in Florida public schools.

The virtual reality experience is currently offered in both English and Spanish languages and incorporates real-life locations where cyber threats are likely to take place, including in home, school, and even a local restaurant. One of the advantages of the digital curriculum is its agility. The Cyber Hygiene and Digital Citizenship course can be run synchronous or asynchronous allowing flexibility to complete on the student’s own timeline.

The program covers four core modules that include 20 lessons, five-to-seven minutes each, for about two hours of learning. These short and engaging lessons are designed to keep the attention of students and increase their learning retention.

Cyber Florida at USF is dedicated to advancing cybersecurity across Florida for grades K-12, leading cyber workforce development initiatives, and facilitating advanced applied research. Cyber Florida also engages millions through awareness campaigns and resources, safeguarding vulnerable populations and organizations.

Cyber Florida at USF Director Ernie Ferraresso says, “Incorporating Cyber Hygiene and Digital Citizenship highlights our commitment to integrate cybersecurity awareness and career education in Florida’s public schools while fulfilling our broader mission to lead the nation in cybersecurity education, research, and community engagement.”

Teaching Digital Natives is a non-profit educational initiative that provides technology, cybersecurity and digital literacy for kids. Its mission is to educate today’s youth and families and retool underserved communities to mitigate the dangers of the online world. It also aims to cultivate a strong technology workforce, making the Internet a more secure experience for everyone.

Teaching Digital Natives Director of Outreach Danielle Reyes says, “Our immersive, device-agnostic platform was created after years of research and development with leading professionals in the cybersecurity and education industries and aligns with the national standards for cybersecurity education. Additionally, our program supports the instructional requirements of House Bill 379, ensuring comprehensive education on the effects of social media. We are so excited to partner with Cyber Florida at USF to bring this program to Florida Public Schools at no cost to them.”

For more information and to submit a registration request, visit: https://www.teachingdigitalnatives.org/cyber-fl-program/.

ABOUT CYBER FLORIDA
The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at the University of South Florida, commonly referred to as Cyber Florida at USF, was established by the Florida Legislature in 2014. Its mission is to position Florida as a national leader in cybersecurity through comprehensive education, cutting-edge research, and extensive outreach. Cyber Florida leads various initiatives to inspire and educate both current and future cybersecurity professionals, advance applied research, and enhance cybersecurity awareness and safety of individuals and organizations.

ABOUT TEACHING DIGITAL NATIVES
Founded in Miami in 2017, Teaching Digital Natives is a nonprofit initiative focused on equipping youth with essential skills in technology, cybersecurity, soft skills, and leadership. Teaching Digital Natives is dedicated to empowering young people and families with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the online world safely and confidently, fostering a secure digital environment for future generations.

2024-08-06T13:05:16-04:00July 15, 2024|
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Teacher Spotlight: Michael Marchesano

Michael Marchesano

Teacher: Michael Marchesano

School: Angeline Academy of Innovation

County: Pasco

Michael Marchesano is a part of the teaching team at Angeline Academy of Innovation, where he brings his 20+ years of IT experience into the classroom.

Currently in his second year of teaching cybersecurity and his first for artificial intelligence, he’s on an exciting journey from having worked in the IT field, where he earned my Master of Science in Information Technology Management along with multiple industry certifications.

Michael’s transition from the industry to teaching at Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation and now at Angeline Academy of Innovation has been fueled by his passion for technology and desire to share knowledge. He strives to make his classes engaging by incorporating real-world examples from his career, hoping to inspire and prepare his students for the tech-driven future.

Outside the classroom, he’s always exploring the latest tech or indulging in creative projects, staying true to his belief in constant learning and innovation.

Teaching has allowed him to share his love for technology and guide students as they grow into tomorrow’s tech leaders.

We are so grateful for Michael’s contributions for cybersecurity education!

2024-08-19T11:44:46-04:00July 8, 2024|
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Student Spotlight: Ramón González Fernández

Ramón González Fernández

Meet Ramón González Fernández, a recent graduate of John A. Ferguson Senior High, Miami, Florida. Born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Ramón moved to the USA at the age of 5. He always had a passion for computers, and from a young age was fascinated by the way they worked and the endless possibilities they offered.

It wasn’t until 4th grade that Ramón really began to dive into the world of computer science. He joined a programming club in 5th grade and quickly fell in love with the problem-solving and satisfaction that came with getting a program to work. He found great inspiration in learning from Coding Train, a popular online coding YouTube channel, and decided to pursue a career in computer science.

Ramón’s dedication to computer science ended up paying off. He gained a strong foundation in many programming languages including EcmaScript, C++, and Rust, and is always eager to learn more. During his sophomore year he earned the Unity Artist industry certification, in his junior year, he earned his Unity Programmer, Unity VR Developer, Java, JavaScript, and Python certifications. In addition, this year he earned the HTML 5 Applications Development certification. during his senior year, he took AP Computer Science: A, Multi-User Game and Simulation Programming, Introduction to Computer Programming Dual Enrollment with FIU, along with AP Calculus BC, IB Physics SL, and AP Physics C: Mechanics. His Unweighted GPA is 4.0 and his Weighted GPA is 5.014.

In March, Ramón won 1st place in the advanced track in the Cyber Launch competition, presented by Cyber Florida in Orlando, Florida.

During his free time, Ramón enjoys playing FPS games, like Valorant, and heavily modded Minecraft. Recently, he has been using the mod CC: Tweaked to play more efficiently by programming machines in game.

In five years, Ramón sees himself in a junior system programming job, working with a team to design, develop, and maintain complex computer systems.

Ramón’s advice to other young students interested in computer science is to try and connect their interests to programming. Whether it’s music, video games, or art, there are always ways to incorporate programming into their passions. By doing this, they will be able to see the potential of programming beyond just coding, but as a tool to create something unique and interesting. “Programming is a versatile tool, but it’s easier to learn if you’re invested.”

Ramón is an excellent example of how dedication and passion can lead to a successful career in computer science. His journey from a young student in Buenos Aires to John A Ferguson Senior High School in Miami-Dade County, Florida is a testament to the opportunities available for those who pursue a career in computer science. If a student is interested in computer science, they should take Ramón’s advice and connect their interests to programming and see where it takes them.

2024-07-08T11:40:13-04:00July 8, 2024|
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CONTACT US

Cyber Florida at USF
4202 E. Fowler Avenue, ISA7020
Tampa, FL 33620

Office meetings by appointment only

PRIVACY POLICY

Copyright 2024 The Florida Center for Cybersecurity at the University of South Florida. Information on this website is made available for general educational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of obtaining competent legal advice from a licensed attorney or cybersecurity professional with sufficient expertise necessary to address your specific needs. Use of this website does not create any special or fiduciary relationship between you and the Florida Center for Cybersecurity or the University of South Florida.