A Journey of Service and Expertise
Anthony Pinto's professional journey, rooted in a dedication to both service and expertise, is noteworthy. His career path, from serving as a United States Marine to establishing himself as a respected figure at UWF, bringing his extensive knowledge and military background to the field of cybersecurity. Pinto's mission is clear and straightforward: shaping tomorrow's cyber defenders.
The Birth of UWF's Cybersecurity Program
Pinto's journey at UWF has been closely intertwined with the development of the university's cybersecurity program. Around 2013, UWF was granted an IT performance funding, a testament to their commitment and excellence in the field. Pinto played a pivotal role in initiating the cybersecurity program at UWF.
What followed was a series of strategic steps, ultimately leading to the university's designation as a National Security Agency (NSA) National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Education (CAE). This designation is not just a mere credential but serves as a seal of approval, signifying that UWF's cybersecurity program meets the stringent standards set by the NSA. It also indicates that businesses can place trust in UWF graduates to possess a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles.
UWF's Center for Cyber Security
While UWF offers various cybersecurity degrees under its College of Science and Engineering, the university is also home to the Center for Cyber Security. This center, distinct from the academic departments, directly reports to the Provost and focuses on practical applications of cybersecurity.
Pinto elaborates, "They don't deliver for-credit courses. They have a workforce development grant, for instance, where they train veterans and first responders in cybersecurity. It may not be for credit, but they acquire the necessary skills to transition into cybersecurity roles."
The center also conducts research, outreach programs, and offers support to enhance cybersecurity education in the community. With Pinto serving as a faculty fellow at the center, UWF's cybersecurity initiatives are deeply rooted in the region.
Empowering the Next Generation: GenCyber
One of UWF's standout programs is GenCyber, an initiative backed by the NSA. GenCyber aims to introduce middle and high school students to the world of cybersecurity through week-long summer camps. Pinto describes the approach as highly engaging, with a focus on practical exercises and activities over traditional classroom instruction. These camps cater to both middle and high school students, ensuring that the next generation not only comprehends cybersecurity but also possesses practical skills. GenCyber at UWF has been an undeniable success, consistently garnering support and enabling students to explore the captivating world of cybersecurity.
UWF's Cyber Club and Competitions
At the core of UWF's cybersecurity program lies the Cyber Club. Pinto explains that the club provides a platform for students to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. Through various competitions and challenges, students can employ their skills and critical thinking in real-world scenarios.
One notable competition in which UWF participates is the Collegiate Penetration Testing Competition (CPTC). This competition challenges students to test and secure networks, a critical skill in the cybersecurity field. UWF's teams have consistently performed admirably, showcasing the practical knowledge they gain through their involvement in the Cyber Club.
Cyber Patriots and Community Engagement
Pinto underscores the importance of community engagement through programs like Cyber Patriots. This national competition emphasizes defense rather than offense, instructing students on how to secure systems and networks. UWF has been actively involved, both as mentors and hosts for these competitions, further demonstrating their commitment to nurturing cybersecurity talent.
Furthermore, UWF extends its expertise to local middle and high schools through a cyber ambassador program. This initiative allows UWF students to visit schools, share their knowledge, and even demonstrate cybersecurity concepts through engaging activities. It's a proactive approach to raising cyber awareness among younger students.
A Fulfilling Journey with UWF
Reflecting on his journey at UWF, Pinto emphasizes the satisfaction he derives from his role. His dedication to education and his passion for cybersecurity have seamlessly aligned in his career. He treasures the interactions with students, witnessing their growth and enthusiasm for cybersecurity.
In his own words, Pinto acknowledges, "I always wanted a job that would be fulfilling but help people. I wanted something that was interesting to me and had a philanthropy-type attitude."
UWF's Center for Cyber Security, under Pinto's leadership and the collaboration of dedicated faculty and students, continues to make substantial contributions to the field of cybersecurity. Their commitment to education, outreach, and community engagement is not only shaping the next generation of cybersecurity experts but also fortifying the cybersecurity defenses of the region and beyond.
As the world grapples with constantly evolving cyber threats, institutions like UWF stand as bastions of knowledge and protectors of our digital future. With educators and experts like Anthony Pinto at the helm, we can be confident that we are better prepared to confront the challenges of the cyber age.
