Rep. Jim Langevin Gives Cyber Lecture at USNA

  POSTED ON: Thursday, February 6, 2020 8:40 AM by MC2 Josiah D. Pearce

Rep. Jim Langevin delivered a lecture on cyber security to midshipmen, faculty, and staff in Alumni Hall at the U.S. Naval Academy, Tuesday, Feb. 4.

During his lecture, Langevin, the U.S. Representative for Rhode Island’s 2nd Congressional District, discussed emerging threats in the cyber domain and the developing capabilities of the United States and its adversaries. He also detailed how collaboration between the private and public sector plays an important role in the development of cyber security policy.

“These midshipmen are uniquely qualified to be on the front lines to protect the country in cyber space,” said Langevin. “Whether they’re working at the U.S. Cyber Command, flying a plane, or operating a weapons system, there will be a cyber component to the work they do.”

Langevin stressed the importance of creating cyber security metrics to accurately evaluate vulnerabilities. These metrics can then be used to hold everyone accountable to the same standards in regards to the cyber domain.

“I hope our midshipmen will be able to appreciate the difficulty of these issues and the many equities that are at stake when addressing cyber challenges,” said Jeffrey Kosseff, a cyber science department assistant professor. “I think it’s incredibly valuable to hear from a member of Congress who’s looking at these issues every day.”

Before the lecture, Langevin met with midshipmen and instructors from the cyber science department to discuss the work that Congress does to develop cyber security policies and doctrines.

“One of the things that stuck with me the most were his discussions about the role Congress plays in addressing a lot of cyber issues,” said Midshipman 2nd Class (junior) Brittny Price. “I’m in a legislative process class and I’m a cyber major, so it was cool to see the way those two entities interact.”

A top priority for Langevin is securing our nation’s technology infrastructure against cyber attack. As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus, Langevin advocates to improve and increase access to training that gives students and workers skills that best fit the needs of expanding industries.

“This generation will be our future leaders, both serving in our military and helping to lead our military,” said Langevin. “The better they understand cyber security and its capabilities, the better protected our nation will be.”

Langevin is also a member of the Cyber Solarium Commission, which is dedicated to developing a strategic approach to defending the United States in cyber space against cyber attacks of significant consequences.

As the undergraduate college of our country's naval service for 175 years, the Naval Academy prepares young men and women to become professional officers of competence, character, and compassion in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

Category: People, Research, Academics, General Interest