Brennan Andruss

Pushing Boundaries in Game Development and Cybersecurity: Meet Brennan Andruss

B.S. Computer Science, 2026

What drew you to come work at the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute (CCI)?

Brennan was particularly intrigued by the opportunity to work at the CCI after exploring the experiences of other students. He had been closely following the activities and projects of the CCI, and the Unity developer role caught his eye as an excellent fit for his existing skills and interests. Brennan had spent a significant amount of time creating games, building levels, and developing digital art, and he saw the CCI as a chance to apply these passions in a real-world, professional setting. When he learned that the position was open, Brennan was eager to apply, having missed the opportunity the previous spring. He was determined to be ready and prepared when the role became available again in the fall.

What were you involved in before joining the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute, whether at Cal Poly or elsewhere?

Prior to joining the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute, Brennan had been actively involved in a variety of computer science-related clubs and organizations on campus. He attended workshops and meetings with groups like the TSA I, the Google Developer Student Club, and various UX design clubs, exploring a wide range of topics and technologies. Brennan's involvement in these clubs allowed him to delve into areas such as web development, game development, AI, and ML, giving him the opportunity to experiment and discover his evolving interests. This diverse exposure helped Brennan develop a well-rounded understanding of the computer science field, and he was excited to bring this breadth of experience to his role at the CCI.

What interests you about cybersecurity or technology?

Brennan has had a lifelong fascination with technology and gaming, which has been a driving force in his academic and personal pursuits. From a young age, he found joy in creating levels in Mario Maker, sharing his creations through YouTube videos, and exploring the world of digital art and 3D modeling. Brennan was particularly captivated by understanding the inner workings of the technologies and tools he used, and he was eager to transition from being a consumer of these technologies to becoming a creator. This desire to understand the mechanisms behind the digital experiences he enjoyed fueled his interest in the computer science field, and he was excited to apply his skills and knowledge to developing the tools and technologies that would bring similar joy to others.

What part of your role at Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute are you most eager to dive into, and why?

Brennan is most eager to dive into the game development work with Unity at the Cal Poly Cybersecurity Institute. He sees this as an opportunity to apply his existing skills and knowledge in a real-world, collaborative environment, while also expanding his understanding of the Unity game engine and the broader technologies that power interactive environments. Brennan is particularly excited about the prospect of creating new rooms and challenges for the upcoming Space Grand Challenge, as it will allow him to tackle complex problems, hone his problem-solving abilities, and contribute to the development of engaging and challenging experiences for participants. This hands-on, project-based work aligns perfectly with Brennan's passion for game development and his desire to continuously learn and grow in his field.

How does the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute fit in your future career?

Brennan believes that the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute will play a pivotal role in shaping his future career. He sees the CCI as a platform to gain valuable, industry-relevant experience in software engineering and game development, utilizing the same tools and methodologies used in professional settings. By immersing himself in this real-world environment, Brennan hopes to deepen his understanding of the technologies and processes that drive the creation of interactive experiences, while also gaining exposure to the broader field of cybersecurity. This multifaceted learning opportunity aligns perfectly with Brennan's long-term goals, as he aspires to be a driving force in the development of innovative and secure digital experiences.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work or school that you think helps you in cybersecurity?

Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, Brennan enjoys engaging in activities that challenge his problem-solving and critical thinking skills. He finds particular enjoyment in playing puzzle games and strategy games, as these types of activities require a keen eye for detail, logical reasoning, and the ability to think through complex scenarios. Brennan believes that these hobbies, which he has cultivated since childhood, have helped him develop the analytical mindset and attention to detail that are invaluable in the field of cybersecurity. By continuously honing these skills through his leisure activities, Brennan is confident that he can bring a unique and well-rounded perspective to his work at the CCI.

What are you excited to work on or learn about with the CCI coming up in the future?

Brennan is brimming with excitement about the opportunity to continue working on the development of new rooms and challenges for the CCI's upcoming Space Grand Challenge. He sees this as a chance to dive deeper into the Unity game engine, exploring its intricacies and capabilities in order.