Heinz College Alumnus Profile: Greg Bednarski, MSISPM 2004

Release Date: Oct 16, 2009

Greg Bednarski, Master of Science in Information Security Policy and Management, 2004
Computer Scientist, U.S. Department of Defense

Please describe your current occupation and industry:

"Research, development, and technical management within the United States Department of Defense."

How did your Heinz training help lead you to your current occupation and how does it support your work?

"Heinz College is an internationally recognized leader in public policy and management. Carnegie Mellon is known globally for its technology and computer security leadership. The unique information security Master's program at Heinz combines the best of both strengths, making graduates of the program highly sought after by some of the most exciting and cutting-edge employers. My experience at Heinz has given me the technical know-how and creativity to tackle the most difficult challenges, and the analytic, fiscal, and policy background to maximize the benefits of my work for our nation."

What was the most valuable thing about your Heinz experience?

"Two words: critical thinking. The diverse student body and academic rigor constantly challenged my opinions and presented the opportunity to grow intellectually.  Fellow students from an array of social, cultural, and educational backgrounds presented viewpoints which I would not have been otherwise exposed. The depth of my courses and expertise of my professors helped me craft the tools necessary to understand, analyze and act on any information presented."

Please share an interesting bit of information about your life (personal or professional) that your fellow alumni might not know:

"Spending hours daily in the role of a "knowledge worker" of the 21st century has an odd side-effect on me: I spend my free time in the warmer months doing physical labor, most recently gutting and rehabbing my 133 year old row home in Baltimore. Never underestimate the satisfaction gained from building something tangible!"

Feel free to add any other comments relevant to your time at Carnegie Mellon:

"My time with the University isn't over - I enjoy serving as a member of the Heinz College Alumni Board, talking to students about their experience, and visiting Pittsburgh whenever possible. I can only last so long without a TGIF event in Hamburg Hall!"

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