UA Little Rock Professor Innovates Cybersecurity for Accessibility

A professor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock is leading groundbreaking research aimed at enhancing accessibility in the cybersecurity sector. William Cox, an assistant professor of cybersecurity and information technology, draws on his extensive experience as a cyber warfare operator in the U.S. Air Force to address significant barriers faced by individuals who are blind or have low vision in this vital industry.

Recognizing Accessibility Gaps in Cybersecurity

Cox’s journey into this area of research began on the UA Little Rock campus when he taught a blind student. This experience highlighted the inadequacies of existing accessibility tools. “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 while sighted students could read course material in about ten minutes, his blind student required three to four hours.

This disparity illuminated the crucial distinction between accessibility—which may meet formal standards—and usability, which truly facilitates effective learning. Cox’s current research focuses on enhancing the usability of cybersecurity software, ensuring equitable opportunities for those with low vision.

Many cybersecurity platforms rely heavily on visual elements, such as charts and color-coded alerts. Even if these systems comply with accessibility standards, they often create barriers for users who depend on non-visual methods of interpretation. To combat this challenge, Cox is developing artificial intelligence-powered tools that assess and enhance how software communicates with users who cannot rely on visual cues.

Empowering Students and Professionals

These innovative tools will scan websites, identifying accessibility shortcomings from the perspective of blind users and proposing specific, actionable solutions. In addition to improving industry software, Cox is also creating classroom technology that enables faculty to automatically convert documents and coursework into formats like real-time audio. This initiative aims to allow blind and low-vision students to engage in classes on equal footing with their peers.

Cox’s research is particularly significant as it shifts focus from merely enhancing daily living activities to fostering industry and workforce development. He emphasizes the unique abilities of blind individuals, stating, “Many blind individuals have an exceptional ability to absorb, retain, and recall information.” His work seeks to empower this community to not only access cybersecurity education but to excel in professional environments.

Moreover, Cox believes that advancing accessibility will strengthen Arkansas’s cybersecurity infrastructure, especially as the state faces increasing vulnerabilities. “People sometimes think, ‘We’re in Arkansas, so who cares about us?’ But that mindset is dangerous,” he cautioned. With major industries such as Walmart and Tyson Foods operating in the state, and emerging sectors like lithium production, Cox argues that enhancing local cybersecurity is critical.

As state leaders ramp up investments in cybersecurity education and research, Cox sees a dual opportunity: protecting Arkansas from cyber threats while creating new career pathways for its residents. He notes that much of the state’s cybersecurity talent is currently drawn to out-of-state opportunities. By improving accessibility, the local talent pool can expand, enriching the workforce and bolstering economic growth.

Ultimately, Cox’s research is transforming barriers into breakthroughs, positioning Arkansas to lead in accessible cybersecurity education and development. He is demonstrating that accessibility and innovation are not opposing forces but vital components in shaping the future of a rapidly evolving industry. By developing new standards for accessibility, Cox is contributing to a stronger workforce, economy, and digital security for Arkansas.