Student Spotlight: Jason Ashong
ALBANY, N.Y. (Dec. 1, 2025) — For Jason Ashong, cybersecurity is more than a career path; it’s a commitment to building a safer, more resilient digital world. Now pursuing his master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Risk at the University at Albany, Jason has already begun shaping the field in meaningful ways. While still an undergraduate, he heard about an opening at the Center for Internet Security during one of his cybersecurity classes and jumped at the chance to apply. Thanks to the strong professional network he built through the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity (CEHC), and the mentors who recognized his drive and potential, Jason secured the role and now works full-time in IT while continuing his studies.
Jason’s momentum is powered by both achievement and purpose. As a graduating senior, he received the CEHC Dean’s Award for Excellence in Academics, Leadership, and Service, recognizing not only his academic strength but also his leadership and community impact. He has also emerged as a published cybersecurity author, engaging with the complex challenges that shape today’s threat landscape.
With hands-on industry experience and a vision for policy-driven innovation, Jason is charting a path toward becoming a cybersecurity leader who bridges the gap between technical expertise and the broader societal issues that shape digital security. We spoke with Jason about his journey at CEHC, the experiences that shaped his path into cybersecurity, and how he hopes to lead and influence the field in the years ahead.
What’s the coolest project, internship, or campus opportunity you’ve taken on lately and what did you actually do there?
The VICEROY Scholars Research Program has been the coolest opportunity I've taken on recently. Through this program, I got to participate in multiple cyber competitions, present my research at multiple conferences, and even flew down to Maryland, which was my first flight since COVID. Along the way I connected with professionals from agencies like the NSA, Air Force and other DoD agencies.
What’s one thing you learned from that experience that you know will help you in your future career?
I learned how to communicate research on the fly based on my audience. I know this will be helpful in my career because if I ever have to present a report in front of non-technical executives, I will be able to effectively convey the message I am intending to. The ability to adjust your message depending on who you are speaking to is a very valuable skill that should not be overlooked. You want people to listen and understand when you are talking.
While you were there, did you see any interesting ways tech (or AI) was used in your field?
Yes. AI and machine learning were major themes. I saw them applied to anomaly detection in networks, risk prediction, and even military cybersecurity use cases. These approaches highlighted how fast the field is advancing and how important AI will be for the future of cyber defense. This was new to me so I was glad I was able to listen in.
How has CEHC helped you discover or land opportunities like this?
CEHC gave me the platform to pursue VICEROY. I did my research in Dr. Yankson's HackIOT & PCCRT Assessment Lab in the ETEC building where he met with us weekly and helped us with our research and finalizing our paper, which was eventually published. Dr. Unal Tatar and Brianna Bace provided us any other support that we needed regarding VICEROY. I would not have been able to succeed in this venture without the support of the CEHC faculty and staff that were involved in this. I got my CompTIA Network+ certification after taking the CEHC Course CYBR 503 which helped build my knowledge on the topic. There have been countless opportunities that CEHC has helped me discover over the past two years.
What’s been your favorite part about the culture or community at CEHC?
Well, I’ve loved it so much that I even told my little brother and younger cousin they had to come to UAlbany and join CEHC department because they want to do tech. The energy from the faculty and staff is so positive that it’s contagious. You can tell that they genuinely want to see students succeed. On top of that, there are so many events throughout the year where you can just pull up, meet new people and build connections with others. It makes the departments feel less like a school and more like a community (one that you want to be a part of).
If another student wanted to score an experience like yours, what’s your #1 piece of advice?
Take initiative and get involved. CEHC provides countless opportunities, from events to competitions, but it’s up to you to take advantage of them. Don’t just scroll past the emails, show up, ask questions, and make connections and just put yourself out there. Becoming part of the community is the best way to open doors and set yourself up for success. That is one thing I will always carry with me wherever I go.
What’s next for you; any big goals, projects, or dream opportunities on the horizon?
My next big goal is to fully develop the business model for AshongLabs. After I graduate this May, I plan to keep evolving and growing my knowledge by working in the tech field. At the same time, I want to build on my knowledge and experience so I can lay a strong foundation for my business and position it for long-term success.