Welcome to the Professionals Podcast, hosted by Amanda Gillespie and Luke Kasim. In this episode, we are joined by Connie Uthoff, the Program Director of the Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management Master's Program in the College of Professional Studies at George Washington University.

Connie shares her journey into the world of cybersecurity education and how the program she leads has evolved to keep up with the rapidly changing threat landscape. She highlights the importance of continuous education and the skills needed to combat emerging cyber threats, emphasizing the need for a workforce that can adapt to new challenges.

The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the evolving nature of cybersecurity threats, the role of AI and machine learning, the significance of threat hunting, and the challenges faced by both large and small businesses. Connie also discusses the importance of collaboration between different sectors and industries to address cybersecurity challenges effectively.

She shares insights into the diverse backgrounds of her students, including those who come from non-cybersecurity fields, and how the program equips them with essential skills to protect against cyber threats.

The episode also touches on the financial services sector's proactive approach to cybersecurity and the significance of reducing one's digital footprint to enhance personal security. Connie talks about her recently published book on cyber intelligence and the responsibility each individual has in safeguarding their digital presence.

Join us for a deep dive into the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity and learn how education and collaboration are crucial in the fight against cyber threats. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and stay tuned for more insightful episodes.