Ben Sippel

About

I hold a BS in Computer Science and an MS in Cybersecurity from RIT and am currently working as a Cybersecurity Software Engineer at Lockheed Martin. My interests revolve around cybersecurity news and software security. Outside of work, I enjoy lifting, golfing, swimming, reading, and cooking.

Philosophy

I think the most important thing you can do is stay uncomfortable. Whether it's working on projects outside of my expertise, picking up a new tool, or pushing yourself physically during a workout, staying in motion and pushing yourself is the only way to actually get better. That applies to my career just as much as it does to the gym or the pool.

Experience

Lockheed Martin July 2026 – Present

Cybersecurity Software Engineer

Developing scripts and code to implement and configure cyber capability solutions across multiple defense programs. Supporting the full systems engineering lifecycle including requirements development, trade studies, integration, and regression testing on tactical systems.

RIT Department of Computer Science August 2025 – May 2026

Teaching Assistant

Led recitations and exam review sessions to reinforce core computer science concepts. Provided individualized tutoring to improve student performance.

REDCOM Laboratories January 2025 – August 2025

Software Engineer Co-op

Migrated a Unix-based system to Linux by resolving build, packaging, and runtime issues across the stack. Worked on networking, authentication, web servers, and databases while applying Linux best practices including TLS, sudoers, trust stores, and AppArmor. Debugged C/C++ code and configured Apache, PostgreSQL, and SNMP infrastructure.

RIT Information Security Office May 2024 – August 2024

Security Engineer Co-op

Maintained security measures, monitored and analyzed incidents, and ensured adherence to organizational policies to mitigate cyber threats.

Golisano Institute for Sustainability August 2023 – December 2023

Software Developer Co-op

Developed remanufacturing design software using C#, React, and MySQL. Optimized MVC architecture, improved database performance, and strengthened application security.

RIT Department of Computer Science Spring 2023, Fall 2024

Student Lab Instructor

Assisted students in problem-solving sessions, providing guidance on course concepts and personalized feedback on coding assignments.