Creating fantasy realms when running through the backwoods or getting the chance to test-drive heavy machinery can provide an idyllic landscape for a kid growing up. Arthur Gibson has fond memories of his childhood in Alabama, but today, his interests have shifted toward the field of cybersecurity.
As a Data Analyst in IA, Arthur Gibson performs Risk Evaluations of Computers and Open Networks (RECONs) to analyze whether or not unit environments meet the appropriate standards for securely processing and storing sensitive data types. For example, a unit might have a government contract where they need to process Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The Data Analyst collects data and runs tests to ensure the unit can be confident they will comply with applicable laws, policies, and regulations.
Looking back on his first year as a Data Analyst in IA, Arthur says, “It has been a breath of fresh air to work with everyone. The wealth of knowledge and the overall scope of experience from person to person has been amazing.” More specifically, he points out, “In every RECON that we do, there is a collaborative effort to see where we need to draw lines. Our IA colleagues are always doing a fantastic job challenging us Data Analysts to make these standards better.” Along with trying to ensure unit environments follow security and compliance guidance, their goal is to make them operationally realistic so that units are not forced to “do with less.”
Behind Arthur’s passion for safe computing is a long-held interest in video games and PC building. It was during his time serving in the USAF that he began looking at those electronic spaces through a security lens. He was tasked daily with thinking about how to set up barriers to “protect a base”, which helped him develop a security mindset. Arthur noted that he felt satisfaction in “the actual procedures of keeping things secure in a way that everyone could feel safe, and be productive, without having to worry.” Arthur also built PCs with his friends in the service to play an array of games on Steam. It combined his interest in computers and video games with his newly acquired security mindset.
Arthur noted that he felt satisfaction in “the actual procedures of keeping things secure in a way that everyone could feel safe, and be productive, without having to worry.” Arthur also built PCs with his friends in the service to play an array of games on Steam. It combined his interest in computers and video games with his newly acquired security mindset. Arthur has this advice for someone entering the cybersecurity field: “Be patient with yourself because you are going to challenge yourself in ways you didn’t expect. You’re going to need a broad understanding of every component of information technology. It will take time.” When thinking about possible next steps in developing his skills in cybersecurity, Arthur reminds himself to stay grounded by allowing his knowledge to grow through organic experience.
Finally, Arthur talked about his love for the Star Trek universe. When asked about his favorite iteration, The Next Generation, Voyager, and Deep Space Nine are the series he always returns to. Like a hot cup of Earl Grey, he finds comfort in watching the adventures of Picard and the Enterprise crew. If you find Arthur working on a large project, you might hear Q heckling Riker and Picard in the background.