UA Little Rock Professor Advances Accessibility in Cybersecurity

A professor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock is leading innovative research aimed at improving accessibility within the cybersecurity field. William Cox, an assistant professor of cybersecurity and information technology, brings over two decades of experience as a cyber warfare operator in the U.S. Air Force. His current focus is on mitigating barriers faced by blind and low-vision individuals in cybersecurity education and employment.

Cox’s personal connection to this critical issue developed during his time teaching at UA Little Rock, where he encountered significant shortcomings in accessibility tools. He worked with a blind student and discovered that despite assurances of accessibility, the materials provided were insufficient. “I relied on all the tools we’re told to trust when it comes to accessibility and they failed us — failed me,” Cox stated. He noted that what took his sighted students ten minutes to read took his blind student three to four hours, highlighting a stark disparity.

This experience prompted Cox to delve deeper into the distinction between accessibility and usability. His research is now directed at enhancing the usability of software, specifically to foster equitable learning and working environments for individuals with low vision. Many cybersecurity platforms rely heavily on visual elements, such as color-coded alerts and charts, which create obstacles for those who cannot perceive these visual cues.

To address this challenge, Cox is developing artificial intelligence-powered tools that evaluate and enhance software communication for users unable to depend on visual observation. These innovative tools will analyze websites to identify accessibility gaps from a blind user’s perspective and propose actionable solutions to improve usability.

In addition to enhancing industry tools, Cox is also focused on creating classroom technology that enables educators to convert documents and coursework into accessible formats, like real-time audio. This initiative aims to ensure that blind and low-vision students can follow along in class just as effectively as their sighted peers.

While existing research primarily targets daily living activities for individuals with disabilities, Cox’s work emphasizes workforce development within the cybersecurity sector. He seeks to showcase the strengths of the blind and low-vision community, empowering them to access cybersecurity education and thrive in professional environments. “Many blind individuals have an exceptional ability to absorb, retain, and recall information. They’ve learned to adapt and overcome,” he explained.

Cox aspires to establish a new standard for accessibility in cybersecurity, aiming to challenge prevailing stigmas in the industry. He believes that genuine accessibility can enhance the local industry during a crucial period for Arkansas’s economy. By expanding the talent pipeline, stronger cybersecurity infrastructure can emerge in the state.

Despite the perception that cybersecurity threats predominantly target major cities or federal agencies, Cox emphasizes that Arkansas is vulnerable to similar risks. “People sometimes think, ‘We’re in Arkansas, so who cares about us?’ But that mindset is dangerous,” he remarked. The state is home to significant industries, including Walmart and Tyson Foods, and is witnessing the growth of lithium production facilities, all of which require robust cybersecurity measures.

As state leaders continue to increase investments in cybersecurity education and research, Cox sees an opportunity to safeguard Arkansas while simultaneously creating new career pathways. By enhancing accessibility, the local talent pool could be enriched, helping to retain and develop cybersecurity professionals within the state.

Cox’s research is transforming challenges into opportunities, positioning Arkansas to lead in accessible cybersecurity education and development. His work illustrates that accessibility and innovation are not opposing goals; rather, they are essential partners in shaping the future of an expanding industry. Through his efforts, Cox is paving the way for a more inclusive workforce, bolstering the economy, and enhancing digital security in Arkansas.