Marrci Conner | Henry Ford College

Saltuk Karahan | Old Dominion University

Dr. Saltuk Karahan, a clinical associate professor and deputy director at Old Dominion University’s (ODU) School of Cybersecurity, whose interdisciplinary background spans systems engineering, computer science, international security studies, cyber policy, cyber war, and information/disinformation. In this episode, Karahan explains that cybersecurity is an interdisciplinary field requiring not only technical expertise but also strong communication, leadership, risk management, policy awareness, and understanding of human behavior. The interview also highlights Old Dominion University’s broad cybersecurity programs and his advice that students build depth in one area while staying adaptable, strategic, and committed to lifelong learning. Learn more at CybersecurityGuide [https://cybersecurityguide.org/expert-interviews/saltuk-karahan/].

Arthur Carter | Radford University

Dr. Arthur Carter [https://www.radford.edu/directory/profiles/accounting-finance-info-systems-department/arthur-carter.html] is a professor of information systems at Radford University and chair of the Department of Accounting, Finance, and Information Systems. With a background spanning mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering work with the Navy, business information technology, and cybersecurity education, Dr. Carter brings a practical, multidisciplinary perspective to preparing students for both technical and management-focused cybersecurity careers. Dr. Carter discusses the difference between technical cybersecurity roles and cybersecurity management roles, emphasizing that students should explore their interests, strengths, and long-term goals before choosing a pathway. The conversation also highlights Radford University’s multidisciplinary cybersecurity programs, online certificate options, and student outreach efforts, with the key takeaway that cybersecurity offers many possible career directions, from hands-on technical work to policy, risk, management, and leadership. A full transcript of this episode is on Cybersecurity Guide [https://cybersecurityguide.org/expert-interviews/arthur-carter/].

Chris Carroll | Drexel University

Chris Carroll [https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-carroll-cybersecurity] is a teaching professor and program director at Drexel University [https://drexel.edu/cci/about/directory/C/Carroll-Chris/], where he prepares students for careers in cybersecurity and IT. Drawing on nearly 30 years of industry experience, he brings practical insight into networking, cloud computing, ethical hacking, and secure systems design. Professor Chris Carroll explains how Drexel’s cybersecurity program combines technical IT training with cybersecurity education so students can build practical skills and real career options. He emphasizes that many graduates begin in roles like networking, server administration, or support before moving into cybersecurity, and that Drexel’s co-op model helps students gain that experience early. He also argues that strong fundamentals matter more than chasing every new technology trend. His advice to students is to build good academic habits, explore different areas of IT and security, and pursue certifications strategically once they know their direction and can align them with employer needs. Find the full episode on Cybersecurity Guide [https://cybersecurityguide.org/expert-interviews/chris-carroll/].

Marrci Conner | Henry Ford College

Marrci Conner [https://www.hfcc.edu/people/marrci-conner] is a seasoned cybersecurity educator and IT professional who brings more than two decades of industry experience and 17 years of college-level teaching to her work at Henry Ford College. With expertise spanning cybersecurity, networking, programming, and digital forensics, she offers students a rare mix of technical knowledge, business insight, and real-world perspective that helps prepare them for both the classroom and the workforce. Find the full episode on Cybersecurity Guide [https://cybersecurityguide.org/expert-interviews/marrci-conner/].

Diane Murphy | Marymount University

Dr. Diane Murphy of Marymount University explains why the field now offers multiple entry points for students, career changers, and professionals who want to protect systems, data, and people in an increasingly digital world. Drawing on decades of experience across industry, government, entrepreneurship, and higher education, Dr. Murphy shares why modern cybersecurity education must go beyond theory. Her perspective makes a strong case for experiential learning, workforce readiness, and future-focused skills that prepare students not just for today’s jobs, but for the challenges still coming next. More details about this episode are available on Cybersecurity Guide [https://cybersecurityguide.org/expert-interviews/diane-murphy/].