Interdisciplinary Researchers, Business Leaders Exchange Ideas at ASCENT Workshop

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The Arkansas Security Research and Education Institute, a security-focused multidisciplinary center at the University of Arkansas, hosted its first workshop on Sept. 21. The workshop drew representatives from leading industries in Arkansas and neighboring states, and University of Arkansas faculty from computer science and computer engineering, industrial engineering, and food science.  

Digital technology is everywhere and readily available more than ever, which brings security risks that affect everyday life for millions of people worldwide. These increasing challenges are met by insufficient security workforce. 

The September workshop focused on security research past and present, security workforce development and emerging needs for the future. 

Jia Di, director of the institute, said the meeting was a critical link between the University of Arkansas and industry partners.

"Our meetings are important not only to provide updates on the research and education activities that are occurring in the institute, but also to provide a networking opportunity between our students and company members," he said. "These meetings allow our company members to see the potential of new employees being produced by the University of Arkansas."

The Arkansas Security Research and Education Institute focuses on spreading security expertise across several different fields. Its mission is to: 

• Identify and solve modern security challenges in the areas of cyber, transportation, critical infrastructure, and food/water; 
• Establish and grow partnerships with industry professionals to ensure that the security research retains significant and practical impacts; 
• Develop and support educational initiatives that continuously evolve with state-of-the-art security issues and technologies in all thrust areas; and 
• Serve as the Arkansas' source for communication and awareness of security threats, solutions, and needs. 

For more information on the Arkansas Security Research and Education Institute, visit its website at ascent.uark.edu or contact Jia Di, jdi@uark.edu