KENNESAW, Ga. | Jun 2, 2025

This summer, Corey Mack is trading the classroom for a cyber command center. 

The Kennesaw State University computer engineering and cybersecurity dual major has been selected for the prestigious VICEROY MAVEN Internship, a Department of Defense program focused on cutting-edge research in cybersecurity and electromagnetic spectrum operations.

The eight-week opportunity, hosted at the Air Force Research Lab in Rome, New York, offers students hands-on experience with emerging defense technologies, including radar systems, infrared detection, and drone development. For Mack, the internship represents a major step forward in a journey that began with a childhood fascination with technology.

“I’ve always loved science and figuring out how things work,” Mack said. “Back in fifth grade, I had to buy my first phone with my own money, and that taught me how to do research, manage resources, and dive into tech.”

That early curiosity evolved into a focused interest in cybersecurity. While attending Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School in Augusta, Georgia, he pursued a cybersecurity pathway. Growing up near Fort Eisenhower, home of the U.S. Army Cyber Command, Mack became further immersed in the discipline and took courses at the Georgia Cyber Center, reinforcing his skills before enrolling at Kennesaw State.

Originally accepted to both the Georgia Institute of Technology and KSU, Mack chose Kennesaw State for its sense of community and stronger student and faculty relationships.

“I felt like I belonged here,” he said. “KSU gave me that sense of fellowship. The professors know you by name, and that’s something you don’t always get at other schools.”

One of his most meaningful connections was forged with Benjamin Klein, professor and chair of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology. Although Mack never had Klein as an instructor, the two formed a bond after Klein helped facilitate a conversation between Mack and another faculty member.

“Corey is one of those students who doesn’t just excel academically,” Klein said. “He’s curious, motivated, and eager to lead. It’s been a pleasure watching him grow, and I have no doubt he’ll thrive in this internship and beyond.”

Klein later played a key role in helping Mack get into the VICEROY MAVEN program by forwarding the application to him and writing a recommendation letter. Mack credits him with strengthening his candidacy for the national internship.

Mack was one of 15 students selected for the University’s inaugural VICEROY program cohort, which includes specialized coursework and certification in wireless network security. After completing the required classes, Mack applied to the MAVEN internship and received the good news just before clocking into work one day.

“I opened my phone and saw the congratulations email. I jumped for joy,” he said. “I immediately sent the screenshot to my family and friends.”

Mack was later offered an upgraded role as an assistant intern. His responsibilities will include helping organize housing, assisting other interns with onboarding, and acting as a first point of contact for logistical issues and research support.

“It’s more of a leadership role, similar to a teaching assistant or resident advisor,” he said. “We’ll be guiding our peers, helping them get situated, and making sure things run smoothly.”

The internship’s capstone project involves building a drone capable of delivering a payload to a high-value target using advanced sensors, GPS, and communication systems. Mack, who has already worked on embedded systems independently, sees this as a chance to advance his technical skills.

Looking ahead, Mack hopes to apply what he learns this summer to his senior design project at KSU and get involved in research on campus. Long term, he aims to land a full-time position with the Department of Defense, ideally at Fort Eisenhower near his hometown.

“This internship is opening so many doors,” Mack said. “It’s not just about the experience. It’s about the connections and the people I’ll meet along the way.”

– Story by Raynard Churchwell

Photo provided

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.