Carl Marquez

Professor Carl Marquez serves as Lead Faculty for the Cyber & Data Security Technology program in the College of Professional Advancement at the University of Arizona Global Campus. With more than 27 years of experience in education, technology, and leadership, he brings a unique perspective shaped by his background as a United States Marine Corps veteran, educator, and technology innovator.

Professor Marquez has taught and developed courses across cybersecurity, networking, and automation, integrating Quality Matters (QM) standards for online course design, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and real-world applications that prepare students for industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CySA+, and CISSP. He has been instrumental in aligning the program with ABET standards and positioning it for NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) accreditation.

His research and professional interests focus on artificial intelligence (AI), extended reality (XR), and automation in cybersecurity education, exploring how these technologies enhance engagement, accessibility, and workforce readiness. Professor Marquez has presented on the integration of AI and cybersecurity at the AI4 Conference in Las Vegas (multiple years) and actively participates in CPX Americas and DEF CON (various years) to stay current with cutting-edge developments in the cybersecurity field.

Beyond teaching, he actively contributes to the university’s mission through service on the Faculty Council, program development initiatives, and faculty collaborations, helping to shape future-ready educational practices that support inclusivity and innovation.

Accomplishments

• Made significant contributions to ABET accreditation alignment and NSA CAE-CD preparation for the Cyber & Data Security Technology program, ensuring compliance with national standards for academic excellence and workforce readiness.
• Developed and revised curriculum integrating AI, XR, and automation technologies to modernize cybersecurity education and align with industry needs.
• Contributed to the design and development of the 90-credit bachelor’s program in Cyber & Data Security Technology, while aligning outcomes with ABET and NSA CAE-CD standards and workforce readiness goals.
• Contributed to the development of the Associate of Arts (AA) pathway in Cyber & Data Security, creating stackable credentials and a clear academic progression toward the bachelor’s program.
• Presented at the AI4 Conference (multiple years) on the integration of AI and cybersecurity education, contributing to national thought leadership in digital defense innovation.
• Spoke at an international collaborative AI webinar connecting faculty and students from the University of Zagreb (Croatia) and UAGC Technology Studies via Zoom, fostering global academic dialogue on AI in education and ethics.
• Delivered “Securing the Future: Integrating AI and Cybersecurity,” a university-wide special event that brought together faculty, students, and industry professionals to explore emerging AI-driven security strategies.
• Attended CPX Americas and DEF CON (multiple years) to stay current with emerging cybersecurity trends and professional best practices.
• Completed Quality Matters (QM) APPQMR certification, applying evidence-based standards for online course design and continuous improvement.
• Serves on the Cybersecurity Advisory Board, providing strategic insight to strengthen program alignment with workforce and employer demands.
• Actively contributes to the UAGC Faculty Council, promoting collaboration, innovation, and academic excellence.
• Supports Teacher Learning Conference (TLC) logistics, including developing code and automation scripts, managing speaker setup, and streamlining backend operations to enhance event coordination and professional development efficiency.
• Awarded UFP research grant to investigate the impact of corporate sponsorship on employment opportunities for certified cybersecurity graduates, supporting student success and institutional partnerships.