A career in cybersecurity is a natural fit for Riley Rancourt ’20, ’21 (M)
Written by Andrew Clark
Growing up in Warren, Rhode Island, Riley Rancourt ’20, ’21 (M) never expected to work in cybersecurity. His time at Salve Regina University, however, was instrumental in shaping his career path. A 2020 David L. Boren Fellowship recipient, Rancourt found that his computer forensics courses provided a strong foundation for the technical skills he uses today.
When he first arrived at Salve, Rancourt knew he wanted to pursue a career related to government. As an administration of justice major, he began taking classes focused on computer-based crimes. Over time, he became drawn to the intersection of policy and technology, ultimately discovering that cybersecurity was the perfect fit for his interests.
“I never expected to work in cybersecurity,” said Rancourt, who is now an information systems security manager and officer at BAE Systems, a leading aerospace, defense and information security company. “Technology was something that I thought of as recreation more than as a career. Here, I have found a career that harmonizes my interest between policy and technology.”
As an information systems security manager, Rancourt works on Department of Defense (DOD) contracts on behalf of a government contracting organization. He and his teammates build systems based on a risk management framework cybersecurity model that successfully meet DOD specifications.
Given the evolving and complex nature of cybersecurity, the job is challenging and rewarding.
“There is something new every day, and we are always busy,” said Rancourt. “One of the first things I heard is that if you are bored, you are doing your job wrong. It can be difficult at times to manage, but I think that is what makes the job so rewarding.”
Rancourt joined BAE Systems after spending a year as an information security system officer (ISSO)/cyber-vulnerability assessment analyst at Raytheon Missiles & Defense. In that role, he assessed and monitored system compliance and investigated information systems security violations, among other responsibilities. Having earned his master’s degree from Salve in homeland security and cybersecurity with a concentration in intelligence, being in cybersecurity is a natural fit for him.
“What I enjoy about my role is problem-solving,” said Rancourt. “We have 1,620 discreet requirements. Trying to make the business work within that framework and help our program secure as much as possible, I find that very rewarding.”
When he’s not working on pressing cybersecurity matters, Rancourt enjoys cooking – something he picked up as a college student. A four-year member of the cross-country team, Rancourt also said he lives a very active lifestyle.
“I love the outdoors,” he said. “I am a big hiker and runner. Anything to keep myself in good health.”
Learn more about Salve’s online master’s degree and certificates in criminal justice and cybersecurity here.
