Driving Policy Through Tech Knowledge: Veronika Kyles, BAS CO ’25 , MS CIO ’27

The application of technical and subject-matter knowledge to drive policy is crucial to the success of any sector, and I would love to be a part of that process one day.

 
Veronika Kyles, who is from Sierra Vista, Arizona, is building from the broad industry and extracurricular activities she took part in as a Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations student to focus on critical infrastructure security research in the Master of Science in Cyber and Information Operations. A four-year member of the Pride of Arizona Marching Band and a Department of Homeland Security Intelligence and Cybersecurity Diversity Fellow, in this profile she speaks to the value of her diverse undergraduate experiences, offers advice for new InfoSci students and more.

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What brought you to the University of Arizona to study cyber operations?

I knew since middle school that I wanted to go to the University of Arizona. I have played the drums since second grade, and as soon as I discovered The Pride of Arizona Marching Band, I was determined to become a member one day. In high school when I truly found my calling in cybersecurity, I learned about the university’s Cyber Operations program and I decided to apply for their undergraduate program. After graduating May of 2025, my professors encouraged me to apply to the Department of War’s Cyber Service Academy program. My acceptance into this scholarship program afforded me the opportunity to continue my studies at the U of A, where I have extended my professional relationships to conduct meaningful research with my peers.

Tell us about your research focus in the Master's in Cyber and Information Operations.

My graduate research focus is on industrial control system cybersecurity and critical infrastructure security. I fell in love with the subject during my undergraduate studies through internships; my research primarily focused on the water and wastewater sectors and the unique challenges its industrial control systems face. Critical infrastructure research is crucial to the operation of any nation and the wellbeing of its citizens, and I feel that it is not emphasized enough. This is why I decided to pursue it as an interest area for my master’s thesis.

I am also involved in a project with other students and professors within the College of Information Science to develop a mobile cyber range to conduct cyber risk assessments for local businesses and schools. This project allows me to contribute my technical cybersecurity knowledge and extend it to industrial control system cyber risk assessments in the future.

What do you like best about cyber operations studies at U of A?

The faculty have truly made my experience at the U of A fruitful. By facilitating conversations with my professors, they have afforded me wonderful extracurricular and professional opportunities that have changed the trajectory of my educational path. I am incredibly grateful for faculty such as Professor of Practice Paul Wagner and Assistant Professor Robert Honomichl, who have created an environment where students like me can prosper.

What internships have you held, and what are your career aspirations?

I was an intern at the Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for two years during my undergraduate career. I was a part of the Intelligence and Cybersecurity Diversity Fellowship through Homeland Security, where I played a role in recruitment and outreach. This opportunity allowed me to connect with students and representatives around the country to network and share what I’ve learned in my educational journey so far. At CISA, I was introduced to critical infrastructure security and policy, and I then decided to pursue this as a research topic in graduate school. In the future, I would love to return to CISA or the federal government to focus on strengthening the collaboration between critical infrastructure owners and operators and policymakers. The application of technical and subject-matter knowledge to drive policy is crucial to the success of any sector, and I would love to be a part of that process one day.
  

Tell us about being in the Pride of Arizona Marching Band and Pep Band.

I was a part of the Pride of Arizona Marching Band and Pep Band for four years. During my senior year, I was chosen as the snare drum section leader. The skills I learned were related to professional development, interpersonal communication, leadership, networking and teamwork, all in addition to advancing my skillset as a drummer. I am forever grateful to this organization and its leadership for shaping me into the person I am today and providing me with memories that will last for a lifetime.

What are your passions outside of school?

Outside of school, I love music, going to concerts, reading, houseplants, CrossFit and spending time with friends, family and my cat, Iko.

What advice do you have for new InfoSci students?

One of my former percussion teachers used to always tell his students to be a sponge for information, and I encourage all students to do the same. Say yes to new opportunities, no matter how unfamiliar or nerve-wracking, because you never know what they may lead to. This could be meeting with your professors, taking an internship you’re not sure about or even saying yes to an obligation you think you may not be qualified for. Open communication with your faculty and leadership is key, and that is what will set you apart from your peers.
  

Learn more about the Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations, offered on campus and online, and the Master of Science in Cyber and Information Operations, offered online.