Networking, network security will highlight WMU Cybersecurity Summit
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—In an ultra-connected world, cybersecurity is a fast-growing industry.
"A lot of people think of cybersecurity threats as people hacking websites; it's so much more than that. It's our entire infrastructure of tech at risk of being hacked," says Evey Ortiz-Martinez, a cybersecurity student.
Western Michigan University will bring together information technology experts, educational partners and security professionals to address best practices in cyber defense and increasing security in its third annual Cybersecurity Summit, presented by the Office of Information Technology in partnership with People Drive Technology, Inc., on Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the WMU Student Center.
"As technology evolves, so do the tactics of cybercriminals. High-profile breaches, ransomware attacks and data theft incidents have surged, prompting organizations to invest more in cybersecurity measures. Innovations such as artificial intelligence and machine learning are increasingly being integrated into cybersecurity strategies, leading to the development of advanced security solutions and further industry growth," says Trevion Thomas, WMU program manager for cybersecurity. "By hosting discussions on the latest trends, threats and technologies in cybersecurity, WMU showcases its commitment to advancing research in the field. This research can lead to innovations that contribute to the broader cybersecurity landscape."
The summit will include a keynote address about responding to security breaches from Daniel Heidt, vice president of Hybrid Cloud at People Driven Technology, Inc., as well as a variety of sessions related to building strong security programs, risk assessment, women in security technology and cybersecurity career paths. A vendor area will also provide attendees with opportunities to interact with emerging technologies and industry professionals.
"Cybersecurity is very important, not just for Western, not just for big corporations, but for everyone as individuals as well," says Ortiz-Martinez, president of Western's Bronco Cybersecurity Club. "This (summit) is an opportunity to come see what it's all about and learn that everyone has some skills to contribute."
"I'm hoping to meet people, attend discussions and really just make this a learning opportunity—learning everything I can about the industry," adds Caden Carr, a computer information systems student and president of Western's Business Analytics and Information Technology Association. "I'm pumped to be part of it and just pumped to attend the event as well."
Carr will join Ortiz-Martinez in moderating panel discussions at the summit for students interested in cybersecurity and professionals looking to tune in to the next generation of technology professionals.
"It's an ever-changing field, so everyone should be learning about cybersecurity," he says.
"We're even inviting high school students from the area. It's amazing to start young and get those students into something like this," Ortiz-Martinez adds.
Ortiz-Martinez has already racked up resume-worthy experiences in the cybersecurity field thanks to networking at Western. She completed an internship with Stryker's cybersecurity team and also had an opportunity to network with top tech companies and Western alumni in the industry through the immersive TechNext program.
"This is groundbreaking stuff, so hats off to Western for being a step ahead of the curve," she says.
Registration information for the summit is available on the event's webpage. Everyone is encouraged to attend, from information technology professionals and business leaders to educators, students and anyone in the general public interested in expanding their knowledge of cybersecurity.
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