Autumn Perkey
Autumn Perkey is an Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity in the School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs at the University of Central Florida, where she teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses. Her research focuses on cutting-edge topics including artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and cybersecurity issues related to China and Russia, as well as civil–military relations and social‑engineering analysis. Autumn’s work bridges academic inquiry and practical security applications, helping students understand complex geopolitical and technological challenges.
Her journey into academia was inspired by her father, a Vietnam veteran, whose experiences shaped her interest in civil–military relations and the realities of conflict. A first-generation college student and a single mother during her PhD studies at the University of Maryland, Autumn navigated the challenges of graduate school while balancing family responsibilities. She gained hands-on experience in intelligence and security research through roles in applied research labs, where she specialized in target-population analysis and social-engineering studies.
Autumn is highly engaged with the broader security and policy community, recently participating in the Atlantic Council’s “Aquatic Tiger” war game in Washington, D.C. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy in career development, encouraging students and peers alike to “invite yourself to the party.” Her teaching and mentorship are guided by her dedication to preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals while contributing impactful research to her field.
• University of Maryland- Ph.D.
• University of Maryland- M.A.
• The Ohio State University- B.A.
• Atlantic Council
• Applied Research Lab of Intelligence and Security
• University of Central Florida — School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my parents. Like I said, my dad was a Vietnam vet, and he adopted me, and I didn't know I was adopted until much later, but the fact that he sacrificed as much as he did to make sure I had a good life really motivated me. My mom was a hairdresser, so we came from a very simple background, and the fact that they always made sure I never knew what it was like, how much money we had, and they paid off their house and are doing well now, I think that just motivated me to do better. I have two kids, and I'm a first-generation college student, so I want to set the stage for them that they can do anything.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of advice I was ever given, and it's something I've run with for my whole life and getting into academia, is invite yourself to the party. It might sound funny, but a lot of times we think a door is closed when you can just bring yourself in and start advocating for things and making a difference, and a lot of times more doors will open the more that you do that.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say I think it's okay to have a unique path, because I was a single mom to a young child when I was getting my PhD, so I believe anyone can do it. The best piece of advice I was ever given, and it's something I've run with for my whole life and getting into academia, is invite yourself to the party. It might sound funny, but a lot of times we think a door is closed when you can just bring yourself in and start advocating for things and making a difference, and a lot of times more doors will open the more that you do that.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both work and life are perseverance, family, and integrity. My parents’ sacrifices and dedication taught me to work hard and strive for more, while raising my own children reminds me daily to lead with care, balance, and a sense of joy. I also value curiosity and shared experiences, whether through travel, creative hobbies like cosplaying, or simply making time for what matters most.