Russia. CrowdStrike. Guccifer 2.0. WikiLeaks. Comey. Cambridge Analytica. Facebook. These actors all starred in the 2016 presidential elections and they brought cybersecurity to American life center-stage. The limelight exposed to the world the insecurities present in computer systems and networks that jeopardize how individuals live their lives. The United States used this event to reinvigorate its commitment to cybersecurity and increase the country’s resilience from nefarious entities. I decided I wanted to be a part of this mission.
In 2016 I was studying Business Administration, Information Systems, and Computer Science at Fordham University. I was planning on a career in the private sector where I could leverage my programming abilities along with my business acumen to achieve success in socially innovative ventures. My interests pivoted towards cybersecurity because I believed there was an opportunity for me to utilize my skills to reduce the impact of future cyber events against the United States. After Fordham, I began working for the FBI and enrolled in a Master of Science in Information Security Policy and Management at Carnegie Mellon University. I graduated in May 2020 and I received a certificate in Cyber Forensics and Incident Response from the Software Engineering Institute.
I am now beginning my journey with TechCongress, where I hope to be an agent of change and improve the nation’s cybersecurity posture. The 2016 election is over and there has been turnover in the cast, but cybersecurity is still a lead figure. I’m ready for my new role on the Hill and hope to help make US cybersecurity infrastructure a star on the world stage.
Jackson is currently serving with the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Majority staff under Chairman Rand Paul (R-KY) and supporting on issues relating to national security and cybersecurity.