Honor Society® member
Josh Kowalsky
IOT Engineer at University of Northern Iowa
- Cyber Security
- Class of 2027
- USA
Member since June 2025
About
I am a non-traditional student at the University of Northern Iowa pursuing a degree in Computer Science, with plans to attend graduate school for Cybersecurity after graduating in December 2025. Alongside my studies, I work as a student employee at the UNI Metal Castings Center, where I serve as an IoT engineer. In this role, I develop sensors and data acquisition systems that collect valuable data, enabling AI and human analysis to improve manufacturing processes. Balancing my academic and professional commitments, I am also a proud parent of four children and engaged to be married. My diverse responsibilities motivate me to excel both personally and academically.
Education
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University of Northern Iowa
Computer Science
2021 – 2025
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Hawkeye Community College
Industrial Automation
2017 – 2019
Goals and interests
- Career goal
My intended job path is in cybersecurity. I aim to work as a cybersecurity professional protecting networks, systems, and IoT devices from cyber threats. Leveraging my background in computer science and experience with IoT engineering, I want to contribute to securing critical digital infrastructure and helping organizations safeguard their data and operations.
- Graduate school interests
I plan to pursue graduate studies focused on cybersecurity, with an emphasis on network defense, threat detection, and securing IoT and industrial control systems. I’m particularly interested in advanced research and practical applications that help prevent cyberattacks and protect sensitive data in increasingly connected environments.
- Outside the classroom
In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I am an active member of the University of Northern Iowa’s cybersecurity club, UNISEC, where I collaborate with peers on cybersecurity projects and stay updated on industry trends. Outside of technology, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, balancing my responsibilities as a father of four and fiancé.
Experience
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IOT Engineer
University of Northern Iowa
Oct 2021 – Dec 2025
-
Industrial Electrician
John Deere
May 2019 – Aug 2020
Languages
- English (US)
