Disaster preparedness is critical for businesses and communities. However, many entities still ne... more Disaster preparedness is critical for businesses and communities. However, many entities still need to prepare. In response, some communities have utilized voluntary accreditation programs such as the Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP) to assess their ability to respond to disasters. In contrast, others have relied on internal resources. Given the concurrent implementation of evidence-based practices (EBP), Ramifications of this change still need to be considered, despite the need for existing research on rubrics for control decisions within community corrections agencies. For example, individuals who perceived a high control ratio span in a typical community corrections environment would challenge implementing a practical EBP approach. Furthermore, public entities have been charged with assessing their readiness and identifying strengths and areas of weakness as a requirement for receiving federal funding and Homeland Security grants. Policy and practical implications are discussed.
American Journal of Industrial and Business Management
An analytic framework is proposed to assess budgets across a series of dimensions, including whet... more An analytic framework is proposed to assess budgets across a series of dimensions, including whether it instills aggregate fiscal discipline, facilitates strategic prioritization of expenditures, and encourages effective and efficient use of budgeted resources, offering budgetary stability. The process should be transparent and timely and support public awareness and participation. This framework evaluated the U.S. budget, considering both areas of systematic inefficiency while reviewing the history of budget reforms. When fiscal policies and medium-term budgetary objectives are debated in Congress, budget strategies and policies are "owned" more widely. However, more active participation by the legislature runs the risk that fiscal discipline deteriorates. In addition, ethical codes within public budgeting demonstrate the need for a professional ethic that fosters an expanded sense of role responsibility. The report asserts that responsible budgeting decisions must be tied to understanding how administrative activities affect collective welfare. Instead, priority setting in the federal bureaucracy resembles the market situation of nineteenth-century capitalism where aggressive "policy entrepreneurs", unequal in talent and resources, struggle to build and sustain support for their programs. Finally, the competition between policies is both reflected in and promoted by the budgetary process.
Journal of Software Engineering and Applications, Dec 31, 2022
The increasing utilization of digital technologies presents risks to critical systems due to expl... more The increasing utilization of digital technologies presents risks to critical systems due to exploitation by terrorists. Cybersecurity entails proactive and reactive measures designed to protect software and electronic devices from any threats. However, the rising cases of cyber threats are carried out by domestic terrorists who share particular ideologies or grievances. This paper analyzes the increasing cyber-attack instances and mechanisms to counter these threats. Additionally, it addresses the growing concern of domestic terrorism and its impact on national security. Finally, it provides an overview of gaps and possible areas of future research to promote cybersecurity.
Cyberterrorism poses a significant threat to the national security of the United States of Americ... more Cyberterrorism poses a significant threat to the national security of the United States of America (USA), with critical infrastructure, such as commercial facilities, dams, emergency services, food and agriculture, healthcare and public health, and transportation systems virtually at risk. Consequently, this is due primarily to the country's heavy dependence on computer networks. With both domestic and international terrorists increasingly targeting any vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks, information sharing among security agencies has become critical. Cyberterrorism can be regarded as the purest form of information warfare. This literature review examines cyberterrorism and strategic communications, focusing on domestic cyberterrorism. Notable themes include the meaning of cyberterrorism, how cyberterrorism differs from cybercrime, and the threat posed by cyberterrorism to the USA. Prevention and deterrence of cyberterrorism through information sharing and legislation are also key themes. Finally, gaps in knowledge are identified, and questions warranting additional research are outlined.
The United States of America faces an increasing number of threats to its critical infrastructure... more The United States of America faces an increasing number of threats to its critical infrastructure due to cyber-attacks. With the constant advancement of technology and the interconnectedness of various systems, the vulnerabilities in the nation's infrastructure have become more pronounced. Cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure, such as power grids, transportation networks, and financial systems, pose a significant risk to national security and public safety. These attacks can disrupt essential services, cause economic losses, and potentially have severe consequences for the well-being of individuals and communities. The rise of cyber-terrorism is also a concern. Cyber-terrorists can exploit vulnerabilities in cyberspace to compromise infrastructure systems, causing chaos and panic among the population. The potential for destructive attacks on critical infrastructure is a pressing issue requiring constant attention and proactive measures.
American Journal of Industrial and Business Management
Collaboration is essential for dealing with natural and technological hazards and disasters and t... more Collaboration is essential for dealing with natural and technological hazards and disasters and the consequences of terrorism. Generally, it is accepted that all administrative agencies require a combination of transactional and transformational leaders, especially within emergency management agencies. However, conflicts arose from creating the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to impose a command and control system on a collaborative organizational culture within a collaborative sociopolitical and legal context. The significant factors are the ability and willingness to appropriately distinguish the needs and priorities of disaster management apart from civil defense needs and preferences; the selection of well-qualified disaster management leaders with a background in natural and accidental disasters; and the quality of implementation of programs including administrative execution, number and level of presidential disaster declarations, and timely presidential involvement in catastrophes. To what extent is crisis management related to emergency management, change management, and transformational leadership? How are these distinctions illustrated at a competency level? While change management is essential, it must be targeted and time-sensitive. Competencies were identified as influential leaders' important characteristics or behaviors during crises. New leadership strategies that derive their power from adequate strategies practical to the transformational power of a compelling vision rather than from hierarchy, rank, or standard operating procedures are recommended.
In the 21st century, emergency management leaders must recognize and respond to birthing threats ... more In the 21st century, emergency management leaders must recognize and respond to birthing threats to our global society, in contrast to the past practices of rigid, bureaucratic command and control of emergency management, whereby systemic challenges through transformative processes generally lead to ineffective emergency response. This qualitative study utilizes leadership theories to explore critical perspectives in emergency management across the USA on pressing needs for vital systemic transformation. The emerging model points to 10 leadership theories central to emergency management and suggests that contextualizing leadership is significant to an organization's success.
American Journal of Industrial and Business Management
Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act (OODA) concepts have supported understanding human decision proc... more Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act (OODA) concepts have supported understanding human decision processes for agile and competitive decisions about human warfighters and human-centric operations. However, future military decision-making based on human-machine teaming relies on technology and interaction concepts that support joint human-machine intelligence, not just human capabilities, which require the modification of new OODA concepts. The Critique-Explore-Compare-Adapt (CECA) Loop is proposed as an improved descriptive model based on recent advances in the cognitive sciences. The CECA Loop has explicitly been based on the premise that goal-oriented mental models are central to human decision-making as the means to represent and make sense of the world. The model puts two mental representations, the conceptual model established through operational planning and the situation model, which represents the state of the battlespace, at the center of the decision-making process. Additionally, the four phases of the CECA Loop broadly correspond to the identification of information needs (Critique), active and passive data collection and situation updating (Explore), comparison of the current situation to the conceptual model (Compare), and adaptation to aspects of the battlespace that invalidate the conceptual model or block the path to goal completion (Adapt). Nevertheless, the CECA Loop is intended to serve as a simple but widely applicable framework to study decision-making in Command and Control (C2). The introduction of critical thinking elements and the exposition of the central role of planning and the mental representation of operational concepts in C2.
World Journal of Engineering and Technology,, 2025
One of the case studies illustrates the protection and security of waterside and maritime infrast... more One of the case studies illustrates the protection and security of waterside and maritime infrastructure in New York State, where power stations, oil and gas refineries, LNG facilities, and ports are vital facilities. This case study analyzes the use of maturity models, including the Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model (C2M2) and the Smart Grid Information Maturity Model (SGIMM). This case study evaluates and explains how these models are used and designed to enhance the cybersecurity capabilities of critical infrastructures. A practical approach to critical infrastructure protection requires understanding potential risks. Threats can come from various sources, including natural disasters, cyberattacks, and sabotage. As a result, tailored response plans can be created that enhance resilience by identifying these risks. Training personnel and conducting regular drills will ensure readiness in case of emergencies. Furthermore, investing in advanced monitoring systems can alert authorities to potential breaches before they escalate, minimizing damage or disruption. A proactive stance is vital for protecting New York's maritime environment. Collaboration among government agencies, private sector partners, and local communities is crucial to the successful protection of infrastructure. This collaboration, which can build a more robust defense network by working together and sharing information and resources, offers hope for a more secure future. Public awareness campaigns can also educate citizens about their crucial role in reporting suspicious activities, thus fostering a culture of vigilance and making them integral to the security process.
The use of alternative fuels is becoming increasingly critical in New York State as we seek more ... more The use of alternative fuels is becoming increasingly critical in New York State as we seek more efficient ways to power our vehicles and industries. Alternative fuels are sources of energy that differ from traditional fossil fuels, such as gasoline and diesel. These fuels can include biofuels, electricity from renewable sources, and hydrogen. The shift toward these cleaner energy options can have a significant impact on the environment. By using alternative fuels, New York can reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, thereby contributing to the global effort to combat climate change. Cleaner air means healthier residents, as it reduces the risk of respiratory illnesses associated with polluted air. Economically, the shift to alternative fuels presents both challenges and opportunities for New York. While some people worry about the costs of switching to new fuel sources and building new infrastructure, there are also potential benefits to consider. The growth of alternative fuel industries can create new jobs in manufacturing, research, and the installation of fueling stations. Additionally, investing in alternative fuels can reduce dependency on imported oil, leading to a more stable local economy. As the demand for clean energy grows, New York could become a leader in the alternative fuel market, attracting business and investments. Infrastructurally, New York State needs to adapt to accommodate the change toward alternative fuels. This means building new charging stations for electric vehicles and expanding the availability of biofuel pumps. Existing roads and transportation systems may also require upgrades to accommodate vehicles that utilize these alternative energy sources. Additionally, public transportation may undergo changes, with buses and other vehicles transitioning to alternative fuels to better serve the community. Investing in infrastructure for alternative fuels will not only improve energy efficiency but also enhance the quality of life for all residents by providing cleaner transportation options and supporting local economies.
As New York State grapples with the pressing need to transition away from fossil fuels, this anal... more As New York State grapples with the pressing need to transition away from fossil fuels, this analysis examines alternative energy sources that promise to foster sustainability and reduce carbon emissions. The study focuses on five key renewable resources: biomass, geothermal, wind, wave, and tidal energy. By evaluating the potential of each energy source, the research highlights their feasibility, environmental impact, and economic viability. The study aims to provide policymakers, industry professionals, and the public with comprehensive insights into how these renewable options can be effectively integrated into New York's current energy landscape. The transition not only responds to climate change challenges but also enhances energy security and promotes economic growth through job creation in emerging sectors. Biomass energy stands out as a versatile solution, utilizing organic materials such as agricultural waste, wood, and even municipal solid waste to generate power. This source offers a dual benefit: reducing landfill waste while providing a renewable energy output. Additionally, geothermal energy employs the Earth's natural heat, tapping into hot water reservoirs or steam to produce electricity and heating. By examining case studies and existing projects in these areas, the analysis underscores the practical applications and advancements that can make these technologies more accessible to local communities. The challenges, such as resource availability and public acceptance, are addressed while demonstrating how these renewable options can relieve some of the burdens posed by fossil energy dependence. Wind, wave, and tidal energy represent the frontier of harnessing the power of moving water and air for sustainable energy production. Wind energy, particularly through the development of offshore and onshore turbines, showcases New York's potential for harnessing natural forces. Meanwhile, wave and tidal energy projects provide innovative ways to exploit ocean dynamics, presenting a largely untapped resource for clean energy. This analysis compiles data and analytics from existing
Cyberterrorism poses a significant threat to the national security of the United States of Americ... more Cyberterrorism poses a significant threat to the national security of the United States of America (USA), with critical infrastructure, such as commercial facilities, dams, emergency services, food and agriculture, healthcare and public health, and transportation systems virtually at risk. Consequently, this is due primarily to the country's heavy dependence on computer networks. With both domestic and international terrorists increasingly targeting any vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks, information sharing among security agencies has become critical. Cyberterrorism can be regarded as the purest form of information warfare. This literature review examines cyberterrorism and strategic communications, focusing on domestic cyberterrorism. Notable themes include the meaning of cyberterrorism, how cyberterrorism differs from cybercrime, and the threat posed by cyberterrorism to the USA. Prevention and deterrence of cyberterrorism through information sharing and legislation are also key themes. Finally, gaps in knowledge are identified, and questions warranting additional research are outlined.
The increasing utilization of digital technologies presents risks to critical systems due to expl... more The increasing utilization of digital technologies presents risks to critical systems due to exploitation by terrorists. Cybersecurity entails proactive and reactive measures designed to protect software and electronic devices from any threats. However, the rising cases of cyber threats are carried out by domestic terrorists who share particular ideologies or grievances. This paper analyzes the increasing cyber-attack instances and mechanisms to counter these threats. Additionally, it addresses the growing concern of domestic terrorism and its impact on national security. Finally, it provides an overview of gaps and possible areas of future research to promote cybersecurity.
The technological progress of the 20 th and 21 st centuries has increased the risk of manufacture... more The technological progress of the 20 th and 21 st centuries has increased the risk of manufactured disasters. In contrast, the current political landscape has led to a surge of threats related to terrorism. Nevertheless, one aspect of emergency management has remained relevant throughout the centuries. Since the dawn of life, humanity has been subject to dangerous natural phenomena. Natural disaster remains widely used across settings and differentiates between human-conditioned and less controllable events caused by environmental processes. Volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods have become the reason for millions of deaths across history. Despite considerable progress, natural disasters remain an essential risk factor on the scale of the whole planet. Therefore, the oldest element of emergency management has always been one of its crucial aspects. It explores the relevant risks while introducing a framework to mitigate the consequences of the impact of nature's forces. Additionally, the proposed approach to the study of the mechanisms for optimizing the functioning of social organizations, whose tasks are aimed at ensuring the safety of people in conditions of constant natural and manufactured risk, will contribute to the further theoretical and empirical study of similar problems in other areas of national security.
The idea that human beings originated in Africa is supported by scientific research, but some ind... more The idea that human beings originated in Africa is supported by scientific research, but some individuals, past and present, resist accepting this fact. This resistance can stem from cultural beliefs, personal experiences, or education. Many cultures have their own creation stories that often contradict scientific findings. These stories often hold deep meaning for individuals and communities, forming a core part of their identity. As a result, people may find it difficult to accept evidence that challenges their traditional views. Understanding this resistance is crucial, as it highlights how culture influences our beliefs about our origins and our identity as human beings. Psychological factors also influence how people react to the idea of African origins. For some, accepting this notion may lead to uncomfortable feelings about race, identity, and cultural heritage. This discomfort can cause people to reject scientific evidence as it might challenge their self-image or social beliefs. Additionally, those who feel threatened by new information may create mental barriers to block out these ideas. Exploring these factors helps us understand people's emotional responses when faced with facts that conflict with their beliefs, and it reveals how deeply psychology influences our understanding of history and human origins. Ultimately, examining resistance to the African origins of human beings necessitates an examination of education and awareness. Improved education and open discussions can help to bridge the gap between science and cultural beliefs. Fostering a dialogue that respects different viewpoints can create a space where people feel comfortable learning and discussing their beliefs. Further, addressing resistance involves more than presenting facts; it also requires understanding the emotional and cultural dimensions that influence people's beliefs.
Collaboration is essential for dealing with natural and technological hazards and disasters and t... more Collaboration is essential for dealing with natural and technological hazards and disasters and the consequences of terrorism. Generally, it is accepted that all administrative agencies require a combination of transactional and transformational leaders, especially within emergency management agencies. However, conflicts arose from creating the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to impose a command and control system on a collaborative organizational culture within a collaborative sociopolitical and legal context. The significant factors are the ability and willingness to appropriately distinguish the needs and priorities of disaster management apart from civil defense needs and preferences; the selection of well-qualified disaster management leaders with a background in natural and accidental disasters; and the quality of implementation of programs including administrative execution, number and level of presidential disaster declarations, and timely presidential involvement in catastrophes. To what extent is crisis management related to emergency management, change management, and transformational leadership? How are these distinctions illustrated at a competency level? While change management is essential, it must be targeted and time-sensitive. Competencies were identified as influential leaders' important characteristics or behaviors during crises. New leadership strategies that derive their power from adequate strategies practical to the transformational power of a compelling vision rather than from hierarchy, rank, or standard operating procedures are recommended.
Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act (OODA) concepts have supported understanding human decision proc... more Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act (OODA) concepts have supported understanding human decision processes for agile and competitive decisions about human warfighters and human-centric operations. However, future military decision-making based on human-machine teaming relies on technology and interaction concepts that support joint human-machine intelligence, not just human capabilities, which require the modification of new OODA concepts. The Critique-Explore-Compare-Adapt (CECA) Loop is proposed as an improved descriptive model based on recent advances in the cognitive sciences. The CECA Loop has explicitly been based on the premise that goal-oriented mental models are central to human decision-making as the means to represent and make sense of the world. The model puts two mental representations, the conceptual model established through operational planning and the situation model, which represents the state of the battlespace, at the center of the decision-making process. Additionally, the four phases of the CECA Loop broadly correspond to the identification of information needs (Critique), active and passive data collection and situation updating (Explore), comparison of the current situation to the conceptual model (Compare), and adaptation to aspects of the battlespace that invalidate the conceptual model or block the path to goal completion (Adapt). Nevertheless, the CECA Loop is intended to serve as a simple but widely applicable framework to study decision-making in Command and Control (C2). The introduction of critical thinking elements and the exposition of the central role of planning and the mental representation of operational concepts in C2.
A reversible fuel cell, also known as a "Unified Regenerative Fuel Cell," is an electrochemical c... more A reversible fuel cell, also known as a "Unified Regenerative Fuel Cell," is an electrochemical component that can operate via conception in fuel and electrolyzer modes. Reversible fuel cells are based on proton exchange membrane fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cell technologies, which have been proposed to address energy storage and conversion challenges, providing versatile pathways for renewable fuel production. However, both technologies suffer challenges associated with cost, durability, low round-trip efficiency, and the need to separate H2O from the product fuel. Reversible fuel cells present an innovative opportunity for New York State to transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. These versatile devices can efficiently convert electricity into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis and reverse the chemical reaction to generate power when needed. By harnessing renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, New York can produce and store hydrogen during periods of peak production for later use. This helps balance the power grid, especially during high demand, and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Reversible fuel cells can support the state's ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy. Moreover, such technology could stimulate local economies by creating jobs in the renewable energy sector, contributing to economic growth. Additionally, New York's existing infrastructure, such as its extensive network of natural gas pipelines, could be adapted to distribute hydrogen, making it a practical choice for widespread adoption. New York can lead the way in clean technology innovation by investing in research, development, and pilot projects for reversible fuel cells, thereby ensuring energy security and environmental sustainability for future generations.
Exploring sinkholes in the United States is critical due to their growing frequency and potential... more Exploring sinkholes in the United States is critical due to their growing frequency and potential hazards. Sinkholes can occur suddenly, causing extensive damage to property and infrastructure. These natural phenomena occur when the underlying rock, typically limestone, dissolves, creating voids that eventually collapse. Understanding the causes of sinkholes, including heavy rainfall, drought, and human activities, is crucial for mitigating their impact. By studying these causes, researchers can develop effective strategies to predict and prevent sinkhole formation. Preventing sinkholes requires a combination of engineering solutions and public awareness. Adequate urban planning is essential in vulnerable areas to avoid construction on unstable ground. Additionally, regular monitoring of geological conditions can help identify risk factors early. Public education campaigns about recognizing sinkhole signs can empower communities to respond quickly and safely to potential sinkhole hazards. When people understand the risks and signs of sinkholes, they can take proactive measures to safeguard their properties and lives, ultimately reducing the potential for disasters. The significance of investigating sinkholes further extends to environmental and economic concerns. Sinkholes can disrupt ecosystems and lead to the loss of water sources, affecting both wildlife and human populations. The economic cost of repairing damage caused by sinkholes can be substantial, leading to increased insurance premiums and financial stress for affected households. Therefore, ongoing research aimed at improving the understanding of sinkhole dynamics not only helps mitigate immediate risks but also promotes long-term sustainability and safety in regions where these geological events occur.
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Papers by Robb Shawe