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DSU is a place where innovation meets opportunity. We are a nationally recognized leader in technology-driven education, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With hands-on learning experiences, expert faculty, and cutting-edge facilities, we prepare you for modern careers. Choose from a wide range of affordable, forward-thinking programs that allow you to shape your own path. Your future begins today.

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Home ― Directory ― Shawn Zwach

Shawn Zwach

Shawn Zwach

Shawn Zwach

Assistant Professor

Department

The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences

Education

Ph.D. Computer Science, Dakota State University
M.S., Dakota State University
B.S., Dakota State University

Biography

Shawn Zwach is an Assistant Professor in The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences at Dakota State University. He teaches courses in software security, cellular/mobile communications, offensive network security, and more.

Zwach, who has experience teaching a wide range of ages, from middle school students to industry professionals, strives to provide a quality learning experience for all participants. He does this through frequent feedback on a timely basis, while providing opportunities for students to give him feedback as well.

Contact

Office Location: East Hall
Phone: (605) 256-5838
Email
Website

Shawn Zwach spends all his professional time, and most of his personal time, around technology. He has worked in the cybersecurity industry performing code assessment, quality assurance, system accreditation, forensic investigations, and forensic tool development, including data recovery, since 2012. A passionate instructor, Zwach has taught at DSU and in industry since 2016. Throughout that time, he has demonstrated a love for the field and shares the wonders of it with others who may be veterans of the industry or completely new to the field.

  • Zwach’s teaching philosophy centers on inclusivity, quality assessment, and creative problem-solving.
  • Since 2016, he has taught in settings ranging from middle school to industry, focusing on equitable, high-quality learning.
  • Labs focus on solving real-world problems, helping students build adaptable skills for future courses and careers.

 

Zwach is interested in research focused on secure software engineering, automation, reverse engineering, and software exploitation. To date, his projects are used by dozens of faculty on campus to support advising and attendance tracking activities. Going forward, he intends to keep working on projects to improve student success while also venturing into the separate area of code analysis.

  • Wild West Hackin' Fest CTF Winner / Black Badge Holder - 2024

  • OpenSOC Winner at DEF CON 28 - 2020
  • Wild West Hackin' Fest CTF Winner / Black Badge Holder – 2019
  • Digital Forensics Research Workshop Forensics Challenge, Grand Champion – 2018

  • Camp Director – GenCyber Teachers at DSU – 2023
  • Instructional Lead – GenCyber Teachers at DSU – 2022

  • S. Zwach, M. Ham (2024). “Utilizing Docker for Research to Enable Rapid Repeatability”. Proc. of Information Systems & Computing Academic Professionals (2024). November 2024, Baltimore, MD USA
  • M. Ham, S. Zwach, K.Cronin (2024). “Remote Protocol Analysis with a Logic Analyzer”. Proc. of Information Systems & Computing Academic Professionals (2024). November 2024, Baltimore, MD USA
  • S. Zwach, K. Cronin (2023). “Classroom GSM Configuration Monitoring and Remediation”. Proc. of Information Systems & Computing Academic Professionals (2023). November 2023, Albuquerque, NM USA
  • K. Cronin, S. Zwach (2023). “Wireless Networking in a Remote Classroom: A Solution”. Proc. of Information Systems & Computing Academic Professionals (2023). November 2023, Albuquerque, NM USA
  • S. Zwach, M. Ham (2023). “ICT: Attendance and Contact Tracing During a Pandemic”. Proc. of the 20th International Conference on Information Technology: New Generations (ITNG: 2023). May 2023, Las Vegas, NV USA (virtual conference)

  • F. Homan, S. Zwach, K. Cronin. “Expanding Awareness and Access Through Cyber Enrichment Programming”. CSTA National Conference (2025). July 2025, Cleveland, OH USA
  • S. Zwach, F. Homan, K. Cronin. “Spurring Awareness and Access Through Cyber Enrichment Programming”. NICE K12 (2024). December 2024, San Antonio, TX USA
  • S. Zwach, F. Homan. “DSU Mobile Cyber Lab: Let Us Bring Experiential Learning to You”. 2024 Technology Innovation Education Conference. April 2024. Sioux Falls, SD USA
  • K. Cronin, S. Zwach. “DSU Mobile Cyber Lab: Let Us Bring Experiential Learning to You!”. SD STEM Ed Conference (2024). February 2024. Huron, SD USA
  • R. Honomichl, S. Zwach. “So, Your School Wants a Cybersecurity Course”. 2023 Technology Innovation Education Conference. April 2023, Rapid City, SD USA
  • S. Zwach, R. Honomichl. “Live and Learn” (Panel). GenCyber Fall Meeting (2023). October 2023, Baltimore, MD USA (virtual meeting)