Cybersecurity Series E15: Swantje Westpfahl, Director and CEO of the Institute for Security and Safety at UAS Mannheim

Today's guest is Swantje Westpfahl, Director and CEO of the Institute for Security and Safety at Mannheim University of Applied Sciences. Founded in 2012, the institute's goal is to build bridges between experts and non-experts to make cybersecurity an inherent part of work and private life. They promote cybersecurity resilience and an international exchange of knowledge by providing security assessments and advice, international education and training concepts, and contributing to research projects worldwide.

In her role, Swantje's main objectives are the strategic development of the institute and the expansion of cooperation projects. She coordinates R&D as well as building activities of the Institute, especially with a focus on new developments in cyber security with respect to critical infrastructures, i.e. the energy and automotive industry. Swantje's main areas of expertise are security culture, capacity building and didactics, cyber security in international relations and AI. She is dedicated to empower her team in order to strengthen Cybersecurity around the world.

In today's episode, Swantje talks about:

Her unconventional journey from teaching to cybersecurity consulting,

How Cybersecurity involves combating organized, well-structured cybercrime groups,

As Cybercriminals specialize and collaborate; defenders must do likewise,

Building a cybersecurity culture requires tailored training and leadership commitment,

Cybersecurity culture takes time but boosts collaboration and resilience,

Her advice to study standards for security and seek tailored help