For Owen Mullins, earning a cybersecurity degree was only part of the goal. He wanted a career where he could apply his skills in a meaningful way. Thanks to the education, mentorship, and hands-on experience he gained at Augusta University and the Georgia Cyber Center, he found that opportunity in the U.S. Navy.
Building a Strong Foundation in Cybersecurity
In May 2025, Owen graduated from Augusta University with a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and an Advanced Cyber Defense Certificate. Throughout his academic journey, the Georgia Cyber Center played a pivotal role in developing both his technical expertise and career aspirations.
“The classes at the Georgia Cyber Center are amazing,” Owen said. “It offers one of the best learning environments I’ve experienced. Everything worked the way it was supposed to, and the views of the river and surrounding area made it an even better place to learn.”
The facilities and collaborative environment helped prepare him for the fast paced world of cybersecurity while providing access to industry leading resources and training.
Gaining Real World Cybersecurity Experience
While attending Augusta University, Owen worked as a Student Cybersecurity Assistant with the university’s Security Operations Center (SOC). The role gave him valuable hands-on experience in a real-world cybersecurity environment.
“The SOC was my first exposure to how a professional cybersecurity team operates,” he explained. “It prepared me for the field by exposing me to live incidentsthat required immediate attention, critical thinking, and technical expertise.”
Under the mentorship of cybersecurity professionals Daniel Punches and Dominic Klein, Owen gained practical experience while contributing to a high-performing team. The experience reinforced the Georgia Cyber Center’s mission of preparing students with workforce-ready cybersecurity skills.
Finding Purpose Through Service
Beyond technical training, the Georgia Cyber Center community helped Owen discover a deeper sense of purpose.
“The guidance from my peers and mentors helped me realize that serving my country was what I truly wanted,” he said. “Many people in this environment have military or government experience, and they encouraged me throughout the process of joining the U.S. Navy.”
This support network demonstrates the broader impact of the Georgia Cyber Center helping students find not only careers, but also meaningful paths forward.
Launching a Career in U.S. Navy Cyber Warfare
Today, Owen serves in the United States Navy and is nearing completion of the JointCyber Analysis Course, a major milestone on his path to becoming a Cyber Warfare Technician.
“I am more than fulfilled with my decision,” he said. “The experience, education, and opportunities I’m receiving continue to strengthen my expertise in cybersecurity and cyber warfare while building on the foundation Augusta University provided.”
His transition from student to military cyber professional highlights the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity graduates in national security and defense.
Standing Out Through Preparation
Although military training comes with unique challenges, Owen credits Augusta University with helping him develop the discipline and work ethic needed to succeed.
“Nothing can fully prepare you for the first day of basic training,” he said. “But the work ethic I developed at Augusta University has helped me succeed so far.”
His cybersecurity background has also allowed him to contribute a unique perspective among his peers.
“Having real-world cybersecurity experience has allowed me to share practical knowledge and tradecraft that I developed during my time at the Cyber Center.”
A Lasting Network of Support
One of the most valuable aspects of Owen’s experience at Augusta University and the Georgia Cyber Center has been the relationships he built along the way.
“The friends and mentors I met continue to reach out, offering guidance and support,” he said. “Those are relationships that will last a lifetime—you don’t find that everywhere.”
That sense of community remains a defining part of the Georgia Cyber Center experience, continuing to support students long after graduation.
Preparing the Next Generation of Cybersecurity Professionals
Owen’s journey from Augusta University student to U.S. Navy cyber professional demonstrates the impact of combining academic excellence, hands-on training, and strong mentorship. Through programs like the Security Operations Center and the resources available at the Georgia Cyber Center, students gain the experience and confidence needed to succeed in cybersecurity careers across government, military, and industry sectors.
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