Larissa Sazama, a senior transportation engineer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), has been working with the Department of Civil Engineering for several years to ensure the smooth functioning of transportation systems. Her expertise spans a variety of areas including engineering, traffic operations, parking, signage, traffic planning, and signals., And the lighting. But behind the scenes, Sazama began to question the security of these systems., And I developed a deep-seated interest in cybersecurity, particularly with respect to the Internet of Things (IoT) devices that are essential to these systems.
“In my job, we set up trailers with cameras and sensors at intersections. Even the devices we use on the trailers lack adequate security,” Sazama said, adding that cybersecurity He revealed what led him to obtain a master's degree.
Despite the challenges of balancing work and further education, Sazama was attracted to the fully online master's degree cybersecurity program at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO). Already busy with her full-time job, UNO's flexible program seemed like the perfect fit for her.
“UNO's cybersecurity program stands out for its flexibility, which allows us to pursue that,” Sasama said. “Without that, it would have been impossible to attend face-to-face classes alongside work.”
Sazama, who earned a bachelor's degree in computer engineering from UNL, had a deep understanding of information technology and its applications that made for a smooth transition and the beginning of her journey into cybersecurity.
Born and raised in rural Nebraska, the idea of protecting rural communities resonated with her. Ms. Sazama's work with experts like Dr. George Grispos of her UNO, whose focus is on agricultural equipment security, aligns perfectly with the interests of agricultural equipment security and the advancement of agricultural technology and its vulnerabilities. It deepened her deep understanding of sexuality.
“Many studies have shown that certain equipment used by farmers may be unsafe. However, it is unclear how many farms in the Midwest are using internet-connected technology,” Sazama said. he said. “Many farmers use their phones not only for running equipment but also for social media. For example, they check Facebook on the same device they use to manage their irrigation systems; It could pose a danger.”
Sazama's research aims to uncover the complex relationship between technology and cybersecurity awareness among Midwest farmers and food producers. Through rigorous data collection and analysis,
Mr. Sasama sought to learn more about agricultural technologies currently used in the agricultural sector, uncover the level of cybersecurity awareness, and explore the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures adopted to prevent risks associated with technological advances. doing. Sazama's data will deepen her own understanding and provide valuable insight into the broader debate surrounding cybersecurity in agriculture.
Throughout her time at UNO, Sasama has fostered her research activities with the support of dedicated faculty members. Although UNO primarily focuses on online classes, we are committed to fostering a supportive academic environment. played an important role in her academic growth and success.
“Online libraries are a lifesaver for many papers, thanks to agreements with various organizations., We are given access to the resources we need,” Sazama reflected. “The faculty at UNO were incredibly accessible. They were helpful. Whenever I needed help, even if we didn't meet in person, they would immediately email me back with advice.”
Looking to the future, Larissa hopes to contribute to the advancement of cybersecurity practices, especially in areas vulnerable to cyber threats. She envisions a career dedicated to cybersecurity research, education, and advocacy to protect transportation infrastructure and promote safe cyber practices.
“My goal is to create a device for the home that guarantees the safety of all connected devices. Parents can take it home, set it up, and all devices work through it. So it becomes a safe home,” Sazama said.
There's more to Larissa Sazama's story than just her career path. Discover her passionate commitment to innovation and security in the agriculture industry. Her journey inspires us and shows how her curiosity and hard work can make the digital world safer for everyone.
