When thinking about cybersecurity, many only imagine the technical aspects, such as firewalls, programming and the numerous racks of servers needed for critical systems. All of these are crucial elements of cybersecurity, but the most important element is the human element. Behind every defense system is a cybersecurity professional with the skills needed to analyze vulnerabilities along with the patience, empathy and drive to empower those around them.
Someone who ticks those boxes is Patricia Watson, an online cybersecurity program instructor at Boise State with over 25 years of experience in information security, digital forensics, incident response and threat and risk management. Watson knows that someone can learn how to configure a firewall in a short amount of time. But, she also knows to truly protect networks, one must fully understand that cybersecurity also has a critical human element.
“To build resilient networks, you must build resilient people,” Watson said.
Watson’s own journey in cybersecurity began at the University of New Mexico, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in information assurance. Watson recalls a pivotal moment in her cyber career during one of her undergraduate classes that shows the impact a single interaction can have on a person.
“A guest speaker from Sandia National Laboratories gave an amazing presentation on digital forensics and I was blown away. I was so interested that at the end of the presentation, I introduced myself and expressed how interested I was in pursuing a career in digital forensics and cybersecurity. The conversation led to me being offered an internship at Sandia National Labs and that pretty much set the trajectory, not just for my career path, but for where I am today in life,” she said.
That conversation marked the start of an incredible career for Watson that would stretch across several industries.
Helping build the next generation of cybersecurity experts
Watson’s goal is to instill in her students both a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts and a human-focused approach to security by helping them become thoughtful and collaborative problem solvers.
“To be successful in cybersecurity, you have to have empathy and patience. You have to understand that the end user will never be a cybersecurity expert. You have to build a layer of security controls around them the best you can. Specifically when it comes to training and awareness,” she said. “Different perspectives create different approaches to solving problems. That’s what helps create defense in depth.”
Watson understands that this defense-in-depth structure is greatly enhanced by increasing access to opportunities for all. These different perspectives and approaches are critical to building a stronger cybersecurity workforce. Watson believes that programs like Boise State’s online bachelor’s degree in cyber operations and resilience (bachelor of science and bachelor of applied science) and online master’s degree in cyber operations and resilience play a vital role in bringing much-needed new voices into the field. Their flexible, asynchronous structure allows parents, working professionals and students from all backgrounds to have equal access to an education in cybersecurity.
Watson’s advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals
When asked what has helped her achieve success within the field, Watson said, “You have to be willing to learn something new every day. Just when you think ‘Oh, I’m really good’ in a particular facet of cybersecurity, there’s going to be a new challenge right around the corner. You have to really love doing this. You have to love the concept of constantly learning and being willing to pivot based on an ever-changing threat landscape.”
Flexibility and a knowledge-hungry attitude are what Watson highly encourages students to develop. Watson suggests that students supplement their learning outside the classroom with relevant content such as cybersecurity-focused podcasts, webinars, blogs and YouTube channels.
Another recommendation from Watson is to attend at least one in-person industry conference a year. “Students should have a membership to the various organizations that are out there, like the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) and the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA). Those are incredible ways of not only staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest, but you’re also able to connect with other professionals in the field that are constantly facing the same challenges,” she said.
Even with Watson’s self-declared introverted nature, she understands the great importance of in-person attendance at these valuable knowledge-sharing opportunities and community-building events. These events allow students and cybersecurity professionals to stay current on cyber trends and cultivate lifelong relationships among the cyber community.
Watson also encourages students to look into mentorships from instructors and other industry leaders and to leverage their online presence with a professional headshot, portfolio and interview-ready resume.
“You never know who is looking or where a job opportunity is going to come from. Always have your resume ready,” she said.
Learn more about the cyber operations and resilience program
Boise State’s online cyber operations and resilience program can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online program is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.
Written by Ashley Furr