Cybsersecurity student creates the community she knew was needed
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University cybersecurity student Erika Ekblaw is looking at her field from a unique perspective.
“One of the most exciting developments in cybersecurity is the growing need to secure renewable energy systems, smart infrastructure and connected devices,” says Ekblaw. “As technologies like solar power, smart grids and intelligent transportation systems become more widespread, the need to protect them from cyber threats becomes critical.”
Ekblaw arrived at Western knowing cybersecurity was the career path for her. A lover of problem-solving and investigative programming, Ekblaw has a deep appreciation for how integral technology is to every aspect of modern life—especially sustainable technology.
An important part of Ekblaw’s interest in cybersecurity for renewable energy systems is her involvement in Western's Sunseeker Solar Car registered student organization (RSO). Sunseeker’s goal is to design and construct a solar-powered race vehicle that demonstrates the knowledge and experience of its team members. Ekblaw contributes via programming and technical initiatives, supporting the vehicle’s performance and data systems.
“This experience has allowed me to work across disciplines, collaborate with engineers and designers, and apply secure coding, web development and data analysis practices in a real-world engineering project,” says Ekblaw.
Ekblaw sees the challenges of her field. She recognizes that many emerging renewable energy technologies were not originally designed with security as a priority, making them vulnerable to modern threats. These obstacles only prove to Ekblaw that her interest in sustainable cybersecurity is all the more important.
“Through my work with Sunseeker, I’ve seen how technology and sustainability intersect, and I’m excited to pursue opportunities that help secure these innovations,” says Ekblaw. “Protecting clean energy systems means safeguarding not just data, but the reliability of solutions designed to address global challenges.”
Sunseeker is not the only student organization Ekblaw has taken inspiration from. She founded WMU’s Women in Cybersecurity (WiCys) chapter, an organization dedicated to creating a space for women in cybersecurity. She created the organization to build the kind of community she wished existed when she first entered the field.
“Leading WiCyS has been one of the most transformative experiences of my college career,” says Ekblaw. “From organizing workshops and forging campus partnerships to mentoring members and advocating for representation, I’ve developed leadership skills that extend far beyond the classroom. The most rewarding moments have been watching members step into their potential, landing internships, speaking up in technical spaces and realizing they belong in cybersecurity.”
Ekblaw is grateful for the communities that she has both built and found at WMU. She began as a transfer student, which required adaptability, resilience and confidence to step into unfamiliar environments. She notes the way that the change came with challenges, but also gave her the opportunity to redefine her goals and fully invest in her academic and professional growth.
“Rather than seeing my path as nontraditional, I view it as a source of perspective and determination that continues to shape how I learn, lead and contribute,” says Ekblaw.
For information about cybersecurity programs at WMU, visit the cybersecurity program website.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.