Institute for Transportation

Description

This interactive virtual workshop, led by the Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach (CyIO) at Iowa State University, will introduce non-information technology (IT) local public works and secondary roads agency staff to practical, scenario-based cybersecurity preparedness. Participants will use the Cybersecurity Incident Management Exercise (CIME) format to explore a realistic cyber incident tailored to the public works and secondary roads environment—such as ransomware affecting working systems. More information about a CIME is described at this CyIO information page. This 120 minute Zoom-based 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. 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.

Speaker

Doug Jacobson is the director of the CyIO at Iowa State University 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.