At College of Western Idaho (CWI), students are encouraged to connect what they learn in the classroom to the world around them. For second-year student LeAndra Onys, that connection has taken shape through both her technical training and her exploration of global cybersecurity issues.
A 23-year-old Meridian local and first-generation college student, Onys entered CWI’s Computer Support Specialist program with little prior experience in technology, but plenty of curiosity.
“My greatest challenge has been the fact that I was a total novice to the subject before I started taking classes. I didn't know anything more about computers than the next person.”
Through hands-on coursework and a commitment to growth, she has built a strong foundation, earning certifications such as CompTIA A+, Tech+, and Network+, with Security+ in progress. As her technical knowledge has grown, so has her interest in the bigger picture surrounding cybersecurity.
That interest recently led her to research cyber conflict between Iran and the United States, and how those tensions can have ripple effects across the world.
Through the project, Onys tracked cyberattacks targeting major U.S. infrastructure, corporations, and institutions, noting how these incidents can disrupt industries and create vulnerabilities that reach into local communities. Companies with ties to Idaho, including major employers in the Treasure Valley, have experienced impacts ranging from operational disruptions to financial uncertainty.
Her research also explored the growing role of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems in cybersecurity and modern conflict. While those technologies continue to advance quickly, they also introduce new risks and challenges for organizations trying to protect critical systems and information.
By connecting global events to local impact, Onys highlights a growing reality: cybersecurity is no longer a distant concern. It is an essential part of everyday life, affecting businesses, economies, and communities at every level.
As she prepares for a future in IT, with interests in system management, hardware repair, and end-user support, Onys is building not only technical experience, but also a stronger understanding of how technology and cybersecurity affect the world around her. She said one of the things she enjoys most about the field is that it never stays the same.
“I think this is why I enjoy computer science as a major so much. There is constant change, development, and discovery to be done. Much like people, the tools around us and how we create them is a never-ending process.”
Ready to turn your curiosity into a career? Explore Computer Science, Engineering, and IT programs at CWI and gain hands-on skills for a rapidly evolving industry.
