08/28/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/28/2024 08:08
Contact: Thonnia Lee, Office of Communications, Public Relations and Marketing
Tuskegee University students eager to learn about opportunities in cybersecurity and the U.S. Air Force, raised their hands one after another with questions for Gen. Timothy D. Haugh.
The four-star general, who serves as commander of the U.S. Cyber Command and Director of the National Security Agency/Chief Central Security Service, shared his career path with ROTC students and others interested in cybersecurity and outlined some of his current responsibilities as well as an overview of the opportunities awaiting Tuskegee students.
"I've been in my role for six months and I want to build relationships with universities across the country," Gen. Haugh said. "I am looking forward to talking with you today."
Students asked about artificial intelligence, what the training looked like in cybersecurity, how quickly priorities change, the risks of international intelligence and the options to adjust career direction.
"Whatever decisions you make currently, are not ones you have to live with forever," said Gen. Haugh. "You don't have to feel like your initial choices are your only choices."
Gen. Haugh said that some assignments he stumbled upon helped build skills to advance his career. Hosted by Provost Dr. S. Keith Hargrove and Dr. Fan Wu, Professor and Head of Computer Science, Gen. Haugh was also introduced to students in Engineering where he discussed intelligence's role in national security and defense.
Tuskegee President Dr. Mark Brown, a retired major general whose career started on campus in ROTC, welcomed Gen. Haugh and the delegation. "We could not be happier to have you here," said Dr. Brown. "Welcome to a school nested in service to the nation."
"Every day when we go to sleep at night there are people in the world who are thinking of ways to make sure that democracy cannot stand," said Dr. Brown. "Gen. Haugh has a level of responsibility for securing the nation against threats and yet he's chosen to spend some of his time today with Tuskegee students."
Dr. Hargrove agreed. "We have a great leader who represents cybersecurity for the United States," he said. "This visit represents a commitment to supporting you as cadets, preparing you to serve your country."
© 2024 Tuskegee University
General Timothy D. Haugh at Tuskegee.General Timothy D. Haugh addresses the audience at Tuskegee University.