Cybersecurity Risk Management Framework Analyst Ezra Ganeshananda is not your typical cybersecurity analyst. At age 26, the former Maryland state trooper was responding to an accident when he was struck by a car. Ezra woke up in the hospital to the realization that his life—and his career – would never be the same. His recovery led him to his interest in cybersecurity and to Booz Allen, where he advises security controls for client information systems.
What’s it like to change occupations mid-stream? We sat down with Ezra to talk about his unique career path, the talented team in Pax River, and how the values he cultivated as a state trooper still apply to his work today.
What was your journey to Booz Allen like?
My journey here started somewhere else entirely. I always wanted to be a police officer and I received an opportunity to be a Maryland state trooper. In 2016, I responded to an accident on I-495 and was parked on the right shoulder. The next memory I have is waking up in a shock trauma unit in Baltimore, Maryland—I had been struck by someone driving by. It was the darkest time of my life. Months went by, and then one day I said: enough is enough. Although I couldn’t go back in time, I could still live life to its full potential. When I came to that realization, I threw myself into my schoolwork. I made the dean’s list at the University of Maryland Global Campus. I now have the chance to help our defense clients meet their critical mission objectives.
How does your training in law enforcement influence your work at Booz Allen?
As a state trooper, the values of integrity, fairness, and service were crucial to my work. I believe that every person should be a productive citizen in their community. I appreciate being given the chance to find people who have fallen through the cracks in our social fabric and give them a helping hand. I bring these same values to work with me each day at Booz Allen.
What’s the best thing about working with the team in Pax River?
The collaborative team spirit. Like me, my colleagues work on high impact, demanding projects, but we’re always eager and available to help one another. We like meeting up to reflect on our day, even if it’s just a short walk outside the office together.
What advice do you have for someone going through a challenging time?
Dealing with pain and suffering requires understanding and respect. Know that there is an answer to every question and there is a solution to every problem, you just have to find them. You’re a passenger and life is about enjoying this journey. Be present and enjoy the ride.
