Institute for Transportation

Description

This interactive virtual workshop, led by the Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach (CyIO) at Iowa State University, will introduce transit agency staff to practical, scenario-based cybersecurity preparedness. Participants will use the CIME (Cybersecurity Incident Management Exercise) format to explore a realistic cyber incident tailored to the transit environment—such as ransomware affecting scheduling or dispatch systems. The two-hour session will include a brief threat landscape discussion, a scenario video to set the stage, and structured breakout room discussions where agency staff role-play through response and recovery. The workshop concludes with a group debrief and collaborative action planning to identify real steps agencies can take to build resilience. The session also includes insights from Brooke Ramsey, the chief operations officer (COO) at the Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency (HIRTA), who will share lessons learned from their cybersecurity experiences. This engaging, low-pressure format is designed to help frontline staff and leadership better understand their roles during a cyber crisis and leave with strategies they can apply immediately.

Speakers

Doug Jacobson: Doug is the director of the Iowa State University Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach (CyIO) and a professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Doug works with state and local governments on cybersecurity issues and tabletop exercises. Doug also created the Iowa Cyber Hub, which is dedicated to increasing the cyber workforce in Iowa. He has worked for years on ways to include cybersecurity in courses and the general population. Doug has given over 300 presentations in the area of computer security. He also created the cybersecurity ambassador program targeted at the general public, K-12 students, post-secondary students, and employees. Doug is also leading an effort to create a series of short videos called Cyber House Rock that help teach cybersecurity and digital safety to the public.

Brooke Ramsey: Brooke Ramsey is the chief operations officer at the Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency (HIRTA), where she has served since 2010. In her role, Brooke has been instrumental in integrating innovation and technology into HIRTA’s operational framework, driving efficiency and service improvements across the organization. As HIRTA’s information technology (IT) liaison, she coordinates cybersecurity trainings, educates staff on the importance of digital safety, and works closely with insurance providers and industry experts to ensure the agency follows best practices in protecting its systems and data. Her leadership ensures HIRTA remains at the forefront of operational excellence, technological advancement, and cybersecurity preparedness.