For Eric Gibson, success requires preparation, discipline and the ability to perform under pressure – whether on the football field or in the cybersecurity arena.

A graduate student from Norfolk, Virginia, Gibson is pursuing a post-master's certificate in cybersecurity through PennWest Global Online while balancing his role as a member of the PennWest California football team. This summer, he is gaining valuable professional experience through an internship with NEXCOM (Navy Exchange Service Command) in Virginia Beach, where he is helping support both physical and cyber security operations.

During his internship, Gibson works closely with Information Security and Asset Protection teams, applying cybersecurity principles in a real-world environment that supports Navy operations.

In addition to operational security responsibilities, Gibson assists with troubleshooting network issues, reviewing access logs and running diagnostic tests on network infrastructure. He also manages and organizes data related to government-issued technology, support tickets and software health.

The internship has provided opportunities to gain experience with industry tools and processes, including packet analysis using Wireshark, incident documentation and evidence management, and encryption practices designed to protect sensitive information.

"I've demonstrated Wireshark for packet analysis, logged incidents into the evidence database using a multi-layer approval process and practiced encrypting sensitive emails and files to protect personally identifiable information," he said.

Gibson says the experience has reinforced many of the concepts he has studied through PennWest's cybersecurity curriculum.

"This internship has strongly reinforced many concepts I've learned in my capstone and Cyber Risk and Management courses," he said. "The importance of the CIA Triad — confidentiality, integrity and availability — becomes very real when I'm encrypting data and managing access controls."

Applying classroom concepts in a professional setting has helped Gibson gain a deeper understanding of cybersecurity operations. From network troubleshooting to threat detection and physical security measures, he is seeing firsthand how organizations implement layered security strategies to protect systems and information.

"Using Wireshark for packet analysis and spotting potential fraud patterns related to organized retail crime has brought my classroom knowledge of network forensics and threat detection to life," Gibson said. "The emphasis on physical security through CAC management and OPSEC walks also complements what we've studied about layered defense strategies and the human element in cybersecurity."

Beyond reinforcing technical knowledge, the internship is helping Gibson develop professional skills that will benefit him throughout his career.

"This experience is giving me practical, hands-on experience that will definitely help me in both my remaining coursework and future career," he said. "It's also expanding my professional network and giving me insight into how government organizations like NEXCOM operate under Department of Defense standards."

Gibson believes internships are an essential part of a student's education because they bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice.

"Textbooks and lectures can only go so far," he said. "Actually working on OPSEC walks, handling incident logging and seeing how security teams collaborate has shown me how security works in practice and where the biggest challenges are."

He added that internships also help students identify their strengths and interests while building confidence and marketable skills.

"In my case, it's reinforced my interest in network security and compliance while giving me valuable certifications and practical examples I can reference in future classes or job interviews," Gibson said. "Ultimately, internships make you more prepared, confident and competitive when entering the job market."

After completing his studies, Gibson plans to pursue opportunities in government cybersecurity while also continuing to chase another dream.

"My plans after graduation are to find a government job while preparing for Pro Day and pursuing my professional football career," he said.

Whether he's analyzing network traffic, protecting sensitive information or preparing for the next football season, Gibson is building a foundation for success through determination, hard work and hands-on experience.