Improving the practical skills of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students at a historically black college and university (HBCU) was done by implementing a transformative teaching model. The model was implemented on undergraduate students of different educational levels in the Electrical Engineering (EE) Department at HBCU. The model was also extended to carefully chosen high and middle schools. These middle and high school students serve as a pipeline to the university, with a particular emphasis on fostering growth within the EE Department. The model aligns well with the core mission of the EE Department, aiming to enhance the theoretical knowledge and practical skills of students, ensuring that they are qualified to work in industry or to pursue graduate studies. The implemented model prepares students for outstanding STEM careers. It also increases enrolment, student retention, and the number of underrepresented minority graduates in a technology-based workforce.

A smart city focuses on enhancing and interconnecting facilities and services through digital technology to offer convenient services for both people and businesses. The basic infrastructure of smart cities consists of modern technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing and artificial intelligence. These urban areas utilize different networks, such as the Internet and IoT, to share real-time information, improving convenience for the inhabitants. However, the reliance of smart cities on modern technologies exposes them to a range of organized, diverse, and sophisticated cyber threats. Therefore, prioritizing cybersecurity awareness and implementing appropriate measures and solutions are essential to protect the privacy and security of citizens. This study aims to identify cyber threats and their impact on smart cities, as well as the methods and measures required for key areas such as smart government, smart healthcare, smart mobility, smart environment, smart economy, smart living, and smart people. Furthermore, this study seeks to evaluate previous research in this field, establish necessary policies to mitigate these threats, and propose an appropriate model for the infrastructure associated with IT networks in smart cities.

The aviation industry is experiencing over and over again a technological revolution, nowadays with airports at the forefront of embracing smart technologies to enhance operational efficiency, security and passenger experience. This article comprehensively analyzes the benefits, challenges, and legal implications of adopting smart technologies in airport facilitation and security control. It examines the regulatory framework established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on an international level and by sovereign states on a national level. It explores using smart solutions such as automated systems, data and biometric verification, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) devices in airport operations. The authors’ purpose is to highlight the improvements in airport facilities and security measures brought about by these technologies, while addressing concerns over privacy, cost, technological limitations and human factors. By emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach and considering innovation alongside legal and operational imperatives, the article underscores the transformative potential of smart and integrated technologies in shaping the future of air travel.