Meeting with US Embassy Representatives
CySec hosted a productive and engaging meeting between young scientists from TU Wien and affiliated initiatives and representatives from the US Embassy in Vienna. The event focused on advancements in cybersecurity, digital innovation, and diversity in technology, bringing together experts to exchange ideas, showcase initiatives, and foster international collaboration.
Marco Squarcina, Senior Scientist at TU Wien, opened the session by presenting the university’s cutting-edge research in cybersecurity. He introduced the “Shecurity” initiative, a program designed to empower women in technology and promote gender diversity in the cybersecurity field.
Following this, Carrie Cowan, Head of the Digital Innovation School at the Complexity Science Hub Vienna (CSH), provided an insightful overview of CSH’s activities, emphasizing their contributions to digital transformation and innovation.
Markus Schweiger, Head of the International Office at TU Wien, introduced key representatives from the US Embassy, including Deputy Chief Information Officer (DCIO) for Enterprise Services Laura Williams, DT Information Management Chief Christina Bergen, and DT Customer Engagement Chief Susan Danewitz. Schweiger invited them to share their experiences as women in the tech field, offering valuable perspectives on overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in the industry.
Laura Williams, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, captivated the audience with her extensive experience managing global information technology platforms that keep US diplomats connected worldwide. Throughout her career, she has safeguarded sensitive data, advocated for innovative knowledge management practices, and harnessed cutting-edge technologies to advance public diplomacy.
The meeting concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, where attendees posed insightful questions to the panelists. Discussions spanned topics such as navigating global cybersecurity challenges, offering career advice for aspiring professionals in the U.S. cybersecurity field, examining the impact of politics on cybersecurity roles, and exploring the evolving influence of artificial intelligence as both a threat and a defense mechanism. Panelists also shared reflections on their most challenging experiences and outlined future goals for addressing pressing cybersecurity issues.
The thoughtful responses and open dialogue underscored the importance of collaboration and mutual learning in tackling global challenges in cybersecurity and innovation.
This meeting highlighted TU Wien’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and addressing critical issues at the intersection of technology, diversity, and innovation. It provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, offering inspiration and practical insights for the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
