Subscribe to NetSec NewsMeet Ingalls Information Security Interns! We thank each of them for all their hard work and dedication.
Our interns represent an incredible diversity of skillsets and backgrounds. They are already accomplishing amazing things, and unquestionably include tomorrow’s cybersecurity leaders.
If you are humble, hungry, and smart, and are interested in a cybersecurity internship, we want to hear from you. Please monitor our careers page or follow us on LinkedIn for the Intern job listing.
Tadeh Anbarchian - Winter 2023_Pic.jpg?width=150&height=150&name=Intern%20Midterm%20Review%20(Tadeh%20Anbarchian)_Pic.jpg)
When not immersed in the digital world, you can find Tadeh exploring his deep love for music, and appreciating the diverse melodies. Traveling is another aspect of life that he holds dear, as it allows him to experience new cultures and broaden his perspective.
Individual Quote: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” —Theodore Roosevelt
Testimonial: I thoroughly enjoyed my experience as an intern at Ingalls. Before joining the program, I could only experience the SOC environment through lab simulations and watch as many "A Day in the Life of a SOC Analyst" YouTube videos as possible to get a sense of what it would be like to work there. At the end of my internship, I told Mr. Cyrus Robinson, the SOC Director, that this company and this program are doing more for people trying to break into cyber than the next 10 companies combined! And I wholeheartedly believe that. Not only do they present a huge opportunity for the residents of Louisiana, but all the other states as well.
Connor Heard - Winter 2023_Pic.jpg?width=150&height=150&name=Intern%20Midterm%20Review%20(Connor%20Heard)_Pic.jpg)
Connor, a Louisiana native, is currently a full-time student at Louisiana Tech University pursuing a B.S. degree in Cyber Engineering, with a minor in Mathematics. He is an active officer of the computer security club on campus and competes in cybersecurity CTFs and competitions. He is looking to further his career in cybersecurity and work towards a role as a cloud security engineer. In his spare time, he enjoys reading literature, learning about personal finance, and studying mathematics.
Individual Quote: “Don't let schooling interfere with your education” —Mark Twain
Testimonial: This internship was my first official foray into the field of cybersecurity and has given me perspective on the many routes this career has to offer. The community here at Ingalls’ is a strong one, and I have nothing but positive things to say about my coworkers and mentors! From day one they provided me with great feedback and were willing to answer all of my questions. I was and still am amazed at the breadth of knowledge that my mentors possess about cybersecurity, and I know just how much I will continue to learn. From my time at Ingalls, it has become clear that cybersecurity is the field for me, and I look forward to continuing to learn and grow as a professional in the industry!
John Kivuva - Winter 2023_Pic.jpg?width=150&height=150&name=Intern%20Midterm%20Review%20(John%20Kivuva)_Pic.jpg)
John is a proud Army veteran and highly fascinated with Computers. His fascination goes beyond mere interest – it's a passion that fuels his love for technology and its vast possibilities. He finds himself particularly drawn to the realm of computer security defense, where the ever-evolving challenges keep him engaged and motivated.
Individual Quote: “Believe in the person you want to become and take the steps today to make that vision a reality.” —unknown
Testimonial: As someone deeply involved in the cybersecurity realm, my experience with Ingalls has been nothing short of transformative. Working with Ingalls, I've had the unique opportunity to witness real-time cyber attacks as they unfold, providing invaluable insights into the dynamic landscape of online threats. What truly sets Ingalls apart is the incredible team I've had the privilege of interacting with – a group of professionals who not only excel in their respective fields but also foster a collaborative and supportive environment.
Michael Reed - Winter 2023.jpg?width=150&height=150&name=Intern%20Midterm%20Review%20(Michael%20Reed).jpg)
Individual Quote: “When something is important enough, you do it, even if the odds are not in your favor.” —Elon Musk
Testimonial: The Ingalls Information Security internship was an inspiring journey that continued to help build my cybersecurity knowledge with each day. Every day was a new journey and it helped establish a new appreciation for cybersecurity as a field. That new appreciation, was that you should always try to learn something new every day. I thank Ingalls for the time I spent here and the connections I have made, as well as the new knowledge and techniques that I have learned to build myself as a security professional.
Gregory Bailey - Spring 2023
Individual Quote: “Do the right thing at the right time the right way for the right reason.” —unknown
Testimonial: I am glad I got to be a part of this company and will never forget my time here.
Elizabeth Gallo - Spring 2023
Elizabeth is currently studying at Louisiana State University for a bachelors in Business Administration and concentration in Information Systems, and working towards a career in cybersecurity. Away from education she is an avid gamer, a budding content creator, enjoys time with family and a spoiled basset hound.
Individual Quote: “There is always something to learn from everyone even in the most unexpected places.” —unknown
Testimonial: My time at Ingalls has been life-changing for me, thanks to this internship opportunity. Throughout my time here, I have gained knowledge and learned new skills while using industry-wide technology and tools I would have never had access to otherwise. I have worked alongside an amazing team, gaining experience while simultaneously learning about their work ethics and what drives their success. The employees here at Ingalls are passionate about what they do and come to work every day ready and prepared to keep their clients safe from unknown dangers in cybercrime. Ingalls is a wonderful cybersecurity company with the services they offer, but the people here are what makes it truly special!
Gage Hubby - Spring 2023
Gage Hubby is a student attending Louisiana State University Alexandria online and pursuing a B.S. degree in Computer Science. He is seeking to start a career in cybersecurity after he graduates in December 2023. Gage currently resides in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania with his family and has a passion for computers, technology, and video games.
Individual Quote: “Almost nothing is impossible as long as you are willing to make an effort.” —unknown
Testimonial: I had very little background in cybersecurity before I became an intern at Ingalls. Everyone was nice and easygoing. It was beyond a pleasure to work with them, and I enjoyed the learning experience there. Ingalls has helped affirm my career choice and I am grateful for that.
Alexia Lazcano - Winter 2022_Pic.png?width=150&height=150&name=Intern%20Midterm%20Review%20(Alexia%20Lazano)_Pic.png)
Alexia is currently a Senior SOC Analyst with Motorola Solutions. She recently graduated with her MS in Information Technology, Cybersecurity from the University of Texas at San Antonio in May 2023. Despite initially graduating with a BA in Communication in December 2021, obtaining her Security+ certification solidified her plans to go into the cybersecurity field.
Individual Quote: “Sic Parvis Magna. It means ‘greatness from small beginnings.’” —Nathan Drake
Testimonial: While I had some previous internship experience, the SOC internship here at Ingalls has been very enriching and well-worth my time. I was given an opportunity I do not think other organizations are able to give to those finding their place in the field of cybersecurity. Everyone at Ingalls is very knowledgeable and helpful. The hands-on work here has cleared a path for me for the next few years in the field.
Gretchen Schmaltz - Winter 2022_Pic.jpg?width=150&height=150&name=Intern%20Midterm%20Review%20(Gretchen%20Schmaltz)_Pic.jpg)
Gretchen is new to the tech industry, coming from a background in pastry arts. She graduated from Fullstack Academy's Cyber security program and is currently working for RKON, an IT security company, as a tier 1 End User Engineer.
Individual Quote: “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” —Thomas Edison
Testimonial: I LOVED my experience at Ingalls. I can not stress that enough. From the very first interview until my last day, everyone was so kind and always willing to help. I learned a vast amount of information over the course of my internship. Learning and growing were always encouraged. From the skills I was taught at Ingalls, I know I will continue to grow in this industry.
Armando Bazan - Summer 2022
Individual Quote: “All goes, and all remains, but our task is to go, to go creating roads, roads through the sea.” —Antonio Machado.
Testimonial: The Ingalls SOC internship has been a career affirming opportunity. After more than 20 years of teaching both in the US and abroad, I was hesitant to leave a career that had been such a significant part of my life. However, from my time at Ingalls, I see that I made the right choice and can't thank everyone enough who has been so open and supportive. The "people first" culture of Ingalls is something really rare and something that I really can't put into words. The learning curve is steep at times and mistakes will be made, but the support of the SOC and everyone at the company has made each mistake a learning opportunity and a chance for growth both personally and professionally.
Rylan Burlison - Summer 2022
Rylan is a graduate of Louisiana Tech's B.S. of Cyber Engineering, is CEH certified, has held a Tier 1 technician role post-graduation and is looking to pivot into Cybersecurity. Rylan was also a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity at Louisiana Tech. Rylan likes riding bikes on nature trails and kayaking as well as making music and writing skits with friends.
Individual Quote: “I know it’s easy to imagine, but it’s easier to just do. See, if you can’t do what you imagine then what is imagination to you?” —Kid Cudi
Testimonial: Ingalls gave me the opportunity I needed to advance my cybersecurity career. I had been looking for an entry point into the world of cybersecurity and I feel lucky to have found Ingalls. The employees here are great people, friends, and teachers. I feel comfortable with not knowing everything and that, to me, creates the best environment to learn and grow in. My only hope is that wherever I end up I like being there as much as I enjoy being here.
Henry Chester - Summer 2022
Henry has a B.B.A. in Business Analytics from Texas A&M Commerce and a M.S. in Cybersecurity from the University of Dallas. In his free time, Henry studies SecOps, works on his home lab environment, and does day trading.
Individual Quote: “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work.”
Testimonial: Ingalls was my first cybersecurity professional experience, and I didn’t know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to be surrounded by a group of highly skilled professionals that are team-oriented. The leadership philosophy is “People First; Mission Always” and it was awesome to experience this firsthand with the whole team. Ingalls has a very well-structured internship program. It consists of thorough training, including video courses, shadowing, and hands-on experience. This helped me develop rapidly and work individually within a short period of time. Ingalls is comprised of people from various different backgrounds, skills, and experiences. It was a life-changing experience. I feel very blessed to have spent my summer interning with them.
Christopher Laibach - Summer 2022
Christopher Laibach is a recent B.S. of Cybersecurity (Minors: Computer Science, Information Technology, and Information Systems) from Marist College. He is looking to begin his future as a cybersecurity professional, where he can make a difference in the modern world. Outside of cybersecurity, Christopher loves being active and spending time outdoors.
Individual Quote: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning how to dance in the rain.”
Testimonial: The Ingalls internship has confirmed for me that this is where I want to be, in the field of cybersecurity. The team has been nothing short of amazing, always pushing me to grow and learn from my experiences. Everyone on the team has been there to help me develop from day one.
Bayli Breaux - Winter 2021
Bayli is currently studying at the Louisiana State University of Alexandria for a bachelor’s in computer science with a concentration in Cyber Security. Bayli has an associate degree in Computer Information Technology and decided to go back to school to expand his educational background in every part of computer science. Bayli enjoys playing video games, working out, and hanging around friends and family.
Individual Quote: “Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” —Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Testimonial: I didn’t have much background in cyber security before this opportunity arose. The team that Ingalls has is fantastic. I had the opportunity to learn a plethora of concepts while being challenged by my peers I had the chance to work alongside with and made a few friendships I hope will last a lifetime!
Xavier Ellis - Winter 2021
Xavier is currently a graduate student studying Cybersecurity at Kennesaw State University. He graduated with a bachelors in Criminal Justice and then decided he needed a change. Xavier currently resides in Atlanta and has noticed how it’s quickly becoming a tech city.
Individual Quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” —Winston Churchill
Testimonial: Ingalls really opened my eyes to the actual workday in the CyberSecurity realm. Everyone was very helpful and understanding because I was new. The experiences and skills I have gained from Ingalls will help me succeed in this field. I will forever be thankful for Ingalls!
Candace Respress - Winter 2021
Candace is a Security Operations Center Analyst at Ingalls Information Security. She is an advocate for education, growth, and innovation. She is excited about the opportunity to contribute to serve by protecting and securing privacy and data through technological means. She is a graduate from the Georgia Institute of Technology Cyber and Network Bootcamp. She also holds a Masters of Education in Leadership from Thomas University.
Individual Quote: “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” —Jane Goodall
Testimonial: The Ingalls SOC Internship was amazing. The atmosphere at Ingalls allowed me to blossom confidently into a SOC Analyst with a great passion for the field. It confirmed my area of interest as a blue teamer and encouraged me to continue to grow and learn. I am beyond honored to be a part of such a wonderful team.
Jessica Owens - Winter 2021
Jessica is currently a SOC Analyst with Ingalls. She also operates as the Coordinator for the Internship Program and contributes as a SOC Liason to Editorial. Bringing with her a background in project management and client services, Jessica's passion is to build trust between the technical and non-technical relationships in cyber and information security, she utilizes her talent of bridging gaps in communication and organization with the intent of creating content of value.
Individual Quote: “Don't be afraid to risk success.”
Testimonial: With Ingalls, I have achieved a new level of focus in my cybersecurity career. Having this environment that both welcomes and challenges me as an entry-level professional has been phenomenal.
Selaelo Makhura - Winter 2021
Selaelo originates from South Africa and has graduated Cum Laude from Louisiana State University of Alexandria with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science. He has been steadily gaining experience working in the field of Cyber Security.
Individual Quote: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”
Testimonial: I am fortunate to say that Ingalls was my first professional experience and they set the bar quite high. The culture within the company culture is one I enjoyed being a part of. A great group of individuals who enjoy what they do and genuinely seek to help others and develop themselves. I have learned so much and I am forever grateful for the opportunity I was afforded.
Aiden Thaxton - Winter 2021
Aiden is studying at the Louisiana State University of Alexandria. Outside of the IT realm, Aiden loves cars, making music, and video games. Aiden enjoys cybersecurity because it makes him feel like he is truly making a difference.
Individual Quote: “Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently.” —Henry Ford
Testimonial: This internship was an awesome experience and I would definitely do it again if I could. Before my time at Ingalls, I had no experience in cybersecurity whatsoever, so the knowledge I gained here was invaluable. The team, atmosphere, and culture at Ingalls is unmatched and I loved every second of it.
Colton Thorsen - Winter 2021
Colton is currently a Computer Science student at Louisiana State University of Alexandria. Looking to broaden his knowledge surrounding all things IT, Colton jumps at any opportunity presented his way. He hopes to gather all he's learned by the end of his career and support the generation that supersedes his by aiding in eliminating cyber threats and assisting when things get predictably unpredictable.
Individual Quote: “I like firsts. Good or bad, they're always memorable.” —Ahsoka Tano
Testimonial: Beginning my internship at Ingalls, my expectations were all over the place. I had never had any hands-on cybersecurity experience prior to it. It's one thing to learn about it and another to actually do it. Luckily, my time at Ingalls taught me that lesson, as well as countless more. Flexibility, responsibility, and communication are core values that Ingalls has instilled in me and I recommend that every cybersecurity student look to Ingalls for advancement in their careers.
Dave Londono- Winter 2021
Dave is a husband, a father of two children and two Doodles, and a 23-year Air Force veteran. Upon retirement, he realized that he had never truly given it much thought on what goes on "behind the curtain" and how information is kept secure. To that end, with the support of his family, he decided to embark on a second career as a Cyber Security professional.
Individual Quote: “I'm going to need that broken down Barney style. You're not going to hurt my feelings, I'm here to learn!”
Testimonial: From the very beginning of my internship, I knew that this would be an outstanding team to join, even if for a short time. The internship allowed me to dip my toes in Cyber Security by observing how a SOC operates and what Tier 1 analysts do on shift. Using the "crawl, walk, then run" methodology, I was exposed to various tools and considerations that are key to ensuring customer networks are monitored around the clock. As with all good things, my internship came to a close however that was not before I gained a solid foundation on SOC operations, a wide span of knowledge gained through study, and wonderful connections with Cyber Security Professionals. Without a doubt, this opportunity has actively provided me with a path forward into Cyber Security!
Mariel Klosterman - Fall 2021
Mariel is a Cybersecurity Analyst and a Network and Security Administration student at Dakota State University. She is passionate about security and enjoys sharing her knowledge and skills by presenting at professional groups and conferences, appearing on podcasts, and creating training and learning opportunities for middle and high school students.
Individual Quote: “If you could flick the lights in your bedroom about twelve billion times a second, in a specific order, you could in fact suddenly play Skyrim in your bedroom.”
Testimonial: One of the best compliments I can give a job or internship is that it is what I expect it to be. If I expect to learn certain skills, and I learn those skills, I consider it a slam dunk. Through this internship, I was able to gain the technical skills I was looking for, see how a security operations center runs, learn other aspects of the job, and work with passionate cyber professionals.
Sean Scully - Summer 2021
Sean is a Security Operations Center Analyst at Ingalls Information Security. He is a privacy advocate and cyber enthusiast and enjoys using his skills to contribute to keeping the internet a safer place. Sean graduated from Delgado Community College in 2021 with a Degree in Computer Information Security. His most recent accomplishments include being awarded the CompTIA Security+ and passing the eJPT exam.
Individual Quote: “Once you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, no matter how improbable, must be the truth.” —Arthur Conan Doyle.
Testimonial: The internship at Ingalls confirmed for me that I belong in cybersecurity. I was confident that being a SOC analyst was the career that I wanted to pursue, and Ingalls really encouraged and fostered that passion. I'm honored to be a part of such an awesome team.
Leah McKechnie - Summer 2021
Leah recently received an AAS in Information Technology Cybersecurity and a Criminal Justice Technology Homeland Security Certificate and is a WiCyS Scholarship recipient. Leah also has an Education Specialist degree and a Masters of Education. Leah successfully completed a SOC analyst intern program at Ingalls Information Security.
Individual Quote: “You have a story, and I'd like to hear it.”
Testimonial: I was only halfway through my Cybersecurity program at the start of my internship (Summer 2021). I had many questions and every team member took the time to explain the "why, what, and how" to me. In addition to learning a tremendous amount of technical information during my internship, I loved getting to know my SOC mates. It was really cool to work in a place where different backgrounds are valued and seen as an asset. I have never experienced teamwork like that. The company culture and people make Ingalls unique. I highly recommend the Ingalls Internship Program.
Kenny Buller - Spring 2021
Kenny is a former Army National Guard Medic and has spent 14 years as a Paramedic. He is self-taught in the fundamentals of SecOps, was hired by Ingalls as a SOC Analyst Intern, and then quickly promoted to a full-time analyst. He has since progressed again to Tier 2 SOC Analyst. In April 2022 he obtained his Sec+ certification and is currently working towards CYSA+.
Individual Quote: “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.” —Mark Twain
Testimonial: When I started at Ingalls I had no formal IT experience or training, and I wasn't sure I had what it took to succeed. Thanks to my team's personal investment in my success, it wasn't long after I started working here at Ingalls that I realized I was right where I belonged. I am confident in the team I am working with and I feel like each one of the analysts I shadowed was personally invested in seeing me succeed.
Hunter Landry - Winter 2020
Hunter is from Houma, Louisiana. He graduated from Louisiana College in the spring of 2021 with a BA in Computer Science and Web Design. After his internship, Hunter was hired full-time by Ingalls and now holds Security+ and CySa+ certifications.
Individual Quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” —Winston Churchill
Testimonial: My time as an intern at Ingalls really opened my eyes and gave me some invaluable insight into what it is really like working in the field of cybersecurity. When I first started my internship I truly felt completely overwhelmed and extremely underprepared in many aspects of the field. However, with a lot of time, some very hard work, and the amazing people here I slowly began to grasp the information and concepts that seemed so foreign to me at the start. The time I spent as an intern here at Ingalls, along with the people who helped guide me along the journey, cannot be overestimated. I owe where I am in my current cybersecurity career to Ingalls and its amazing internship program.
Anna Weeks - Fall 2019
Anna is from Baton Rouge and went to Louisiana Tech from 2017-2020. She graduated with a degree in Computer Science and then went on to earn her MBA in 2022. After Ingalls, Anna started working in the casino industry doing data analysis. She has since been promoted and is now the Marketing Casino Insights Manager at Penn Interactive for Barstool Sports, TheScore Bet, and Hollywood Casino.
Individual Quote: “Be happy with what you have and are, be generous with both, and you won't have to hunt for happiness.” —William E. Gladstone
Testimonial: I loved my experience with Ingalls! It was my first real job in something related to my major, and I learned so much about cyber security as well as professionalism. Everyone was so supportive and encouraging, even as I moved on to a new role that would suit me better. I am so thankful I got to be a part of such a genuine company full of so many smart people.
Brendon Mayhall - Fall 2019
Brendon graduated from Louisiana Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in Cyber Engineering, was hired at Ingalls as a SOC analyst intern, then promoted to a Tier I SOC analyst, and then was promoted again to a Tier II SOC analyst. Brendon now works in the Ingalls Engineering team.
Individual Quote: “Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” —Francis of Assisi
Testimonial: The SOC was a great place for me to experience a wide variety of cybersecurity concepts and technologies. Being surrounded by so many knowledgeable people with years of experience allowed me to see how cybersecurity works in the real world and not just how it is taught in the classroom.
Here at Ingalls, the people really believe in getting the right person in the right spot. For me, that meant making the switch from the SOC over to the engineering team, obtaining my GICSP certification, and being given the opportunity to develop cybersecurity solutions for OT/IIoT systems. Ingalls is an amazing place to get your start in cybersecurity for many reasons including their ability to recognize potential in people and facilitate their growth in any aspect of the industry.
.
Alicia (Centers) Kelleher - Fall 2019
Alicia is a graduate of Louisiana Tech, was hired as a SOC analyst intern, then promoted to a T1 SOC analyst, and again to a T2 SOC analyst. Alicia is a WiCyS Scholarship recipient, active Cybersecurity conference speaker and currently working as a full-time security consultant.
Individual Quote: “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” —Milton Berle
Testimonial: My internship was a whirlwind like all of cybersecurity. I had the ability to learn so much and do so many things that put me on the path of success. Working at Ingalls was a fully immersive experience and something that I truly believe laid the foundation for the rest of my career.
Joseph Sparks - Fall 2019
Joseph is a Cybersecurity Training Consultant at RangeForce. In that role, he assists Cybersecurity professionals of all levels find the right training program for themselves, as well as for their teams. When he's not at work, he enjoys cooking, working out, and using the RangeForce platform to further his own skills.
Individual Quote: “Do something, even if it’s wrong. But don't just sit there and do nothing.”
Testimonial: Working at Ingalls was a very key moment for my career, and I certainly wouldn't be where I'm at if it weren't for the experience I gained at Ingalls. Everyone was able to keep things fun and lighthearted, but never taking away from the gravity and importance of our work. I would highly recommend Ingalls to anybody of all skill levels, and should expect a very warm welcome as well.
Jacob Bordelon - Summer 2018
Born and raised in Alexandria, Louisiana. Jacob was hired as an intern in the summer of 2018. During his internship, he experienced each branch of the company, shadowing under various mentors and ultimately discovering a passion for development. Jacob left Ingalls at summers end to complete his studies. Upon graduating with a bachelors in Computer Science and Cybersecurity from Louisiana Tech in 2021, Jacob returned to Ingalls as a backend developer, eager to pursue his passion. When he’s not working, Jacob can be found playing billiards or baseball.
Individual Quote: “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” —Mark Twain
Testimonial: One of my greatest memories, as an intern, was the opportunity to contribute on the Viewpoint Project. I was only a freshman in college with very little development experience. So, when my supervisor offered a scripting challenge, I eagerly accepted. I worked on it non-stop, even off the clock, to complete it. I felt I had something to prove to myself, that my love for computers was not misplaced and I could accomplish something meaningful. When I completed the script, and performed the final push to Github, I felt this overwhelming rush of euphoria, I had found my place. This experience solidified my passion for development and gave me the direction to pursue for my career. I recommend Ingalls to anyone looking to further their careers, both professionally and personally.
