What makes NCPC’s training approach unique compared to other cybersecurity programs you’ve encountered?
What makes NCPC training different is the collaboration between the five member universities and FEMA in determining which courses to develop and how they will be delivered. All five NCPC members have specialized expertise in various areas of cybersecurity. Although we develop courses individually, we can also collaborate on a course, which can deliver more than “the usual” cybersecurity course.
How do you tailor your instruction to meet the needs of diverse audiences?
When I instruct, I always make a point of getting to know, at least to some extent, the experiences and talents of the students in the classroom. Knowing that, and considering the interactions during class, I try to focus on the students’ needs. Sometimes, that means discussions in class; sometimes, it means having a one-on-one discussion with a student after class, or even at a later date. My goal is always to transmit knowledge to as many students as possible.
How do you see NCPC training contributing to national cybersecurity resilience and community preparedness?
The NCPC training is excellent at showing how to improve the cybersecurity of the target audience, be it K-12 educators, community members or critical infrastructure providers. Just about everyone I have met in my classes leaves realizing that there are tangible things they can do to improve their cybersecurity posture.
What feedback have you received from participants that highlights the value or effectiveness of NCPC courses?
Having taught NCPC courses for over 10 years, the thanks I have received from students tend to fall into general categories. Those include: Thank you for coming all this way to teach us; thank you for making me realize that there are steps I can take right now to improve my school or business; thank you for energizing me to take action.
What do you find most rewarding about teaching cybersecurity preparedness through NCPC?
I realize that it is impossible to quantify the effects of our instruction. However, I believe that my teaching effectively reaches a significant portion of our audience and that most of them are able to focus on simple steps to establish a better cybersecurity posture, whether at home or at work.
How do you stay current with evolving cyber threats and integrate that knowledge into your instruction?
I am constantly reading advisories and updated notices on what is happening in the cyber world. Additionally, I seek out courses that can enhance my knowledge. When I travel to teach a class, I read the local news to stay informed about cyberattacks and incidents that students should be aware of, which I can use in the class.
What is your favorite NCPC course, and why?
I think my favorite NCPC course is AWR-428 Practical Internet of Things Security. It is an up-to-date subject, quite well covered for a one-day class. In addition, there are hands-on practical labs that allow students to experience firsthand how easy it can be to compromise many IoT technologies.
How does the NCPC prepare participants for real-world cybersecurity concerns?
Participants in NCPC courses can start at any level, with a wide range of cybersecurity courses catering to various target audiences and skill levels. Starting with a basic online learning course and progressing through different levels of difficulty, the NCPC course catalog is both comprehensive and diverse.
Thomas Paulger is the director of course development for Norwich University Applied Research Institutes and has been an NCPC instructor since 2014. He holds numerous IT certifications, including CISSP, SANS Forensic Analyst, Penetration Tester, Intrusion Analyst, and Industrial Cyber Security Professional.