EKU Students in Action
Three seniors in the Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Homeland Security (HLS) Program traveled to Harrodsburg, Kentucky to conduct a physical security assessment of Hitachi Automotive Systems (Hitachi). Hitachi is one example of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Critical Manufacturing Sector that is crucial to the economic prosperity and continuity of the United States. A direct attack on or disruption of certain elements of the manufacturing industry could disrupt essential functions at the national level and across multiple sectors.
Earlier in the semester, Dr. Ryan Baggett (HLS Program Coordinator) was contacted by Hitachi who requested assistance with the assessment of their current security processes and safeguards. During a physical security assessment, many aspects of the facility’s security program are examined, vulnerabilities identified and recommendations for improvements are made.
Students in the EKU HLS Program learn the theories, concepts and processes for these types of assessments in their critical infrastructure security and resiliency courses. These courses include HLS 210 – Physical Security, HLS 301 – Critical Infrastructure Protection, HLS 391 – Risk Analysis and HLS 341- Cyber Security. In the next few weeks, the students will be developing a comprehensive report and presentation that will be delivered in the November timeframe to company representatives. Based on discussions with Hitachi, it is anticipated that this partnership will continue for years to come, which not only benefits EKU HLS students but will also help safeguard life and property within the Hitachi facilities.
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Learn to identify and analyze potential workplace hazards, infractions and risks through a bachelor of science in occupational safety online. At Eastern Kentucky University, you will gain a graduate-level education by industry-experienced educators and fire and safety professionals who are committed to teaching and preparing you for continued success.