From Project-Based Learning to Microsoft

Kiori Edwards is a Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft Federal. He graduated from Old Dominion University with a cybersecurity B.S. in May 2025 and participated in the CCI Project-Based Learning Program with Microsoft from September-December 2024.

What made you interested in this project, and what were you working on?

I was drawn to this project for a few key reasons. First, it focused on cloud security—an area I was especially interested in within cybersecurity. Second, it was in collaboration with Microsoft, my dream company, so it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

My team and I built a cloud-based infrastructure to host Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges designed to teach users about cloud technologies and cybersecurity threats. We also authored a position paper identifying a gap in current technology curricula—specifically, the lack of integrated cybersecurity concepts across technology-related majors and projects.

What’s something new you learned or got to try during this experience?

I gained a foundational understanding of Microsoft Azure, including how its services operate and the value it provides. I also developed insight into the role of a Cloud Solution Architect (CSA).

On the technical side, I worked on deploying resource groups, structuring cloud environments, and helping design CTF challenges. This gave me hands-on experience building and organizing real cloud-based solutions.

Was there a moment where you felt challenged? What did you do to figure it out?

One of the biggest challenges was understanding Azure landing zones and overall cloud architecture design. While the concepts were documented, it was difficult at first to see how everything connected in a real-world scenario.

To work through this, I leaned into asking questions and engaging with my mentors, Tu Tran and Elisha Angeles. They encouraged curiosity and pushed us to explore topics in depth. We were also connected with Microsoft subject matter experts. For example, when we explored a CTF challenge on mitigating AI hallucinations, we worked directly with Microsoft AI specialists who provided guidance and remained accessible throughout the project. That level of support made a huge difference.

What was it like working with a real employer on a cybersecurity project?

It was an incredible experience. Collaborating with Microsoft professionals—people at the top of their field—was both inspiring and eye-opening. The experience challenged me to grow technically while reinforcing my passion for cloud security and technology.

How has this experience influenced what you want to do next in your career?

This project-based learning experience with Microsoft and the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative played a pivotal role in shaping my career path. It solidified my goal of working at Microsoft.

I still remember a 1:1 conversation with Elisha Angeles during the project, when she told me she could see me working alongside her one day. That moment stayed with me.

On May 11, 2026, I officially started my career as a Cloud Solution Architect with Microsoft Federal. This experience truly brought everything full circle. I’m incredibly grateful—and I hope my journey encourages other students to take full advantage of opportunities like this and pursue their goals.

Related Content