Enhancing Through Scripts: Automating Business Processes Through Scripting; Eavesdropping on Rights: The Privacy Cost of Signals Intelligence

The motivation behind my capstone project and STS research paper stems from a profound interest in the interplay between technical systems and the social, political, and institutional contexts in which they operate. During my internship at CACI, I witnessed firsthand how small technical optimizations can significantly enhance developer productivity and improve operational security. This experience ignited my curiosity about the larger systems governing and deploying such tools, particularly within intelligence contexts where issues of privacy, oversight, and accountability are often contested. By exploring both the micro-level of system optimization and the macro-level of surveillance governance, this project aims to elucidate how technical decisions intersect with broader societal consequences.
My capstone project focuses on the benefits of utilizing scripts to automate onboarding processes and filtering through logs — tasks that are typically time-consuming for developers. In my role at CACI, I identified that a batch file would be the most effective tool for onboarding, while a Perl script was best suited for log filtering. The implementation of these scripts resulted in significant efficiency gains; the batch file reduced onboarding time from a week to under thirty minutes, and the Perl script accelerated log filtering and analytics to mere seconds. Despite minor bugs, such as the batch file erroneously indicating that the environment variable was not set, both scripts achieved their intended purposes. Furthermore, there are opportunities for enhancements, including advanced analytics calculations and customizable preferences for various Integrated Development Environments (IDEs).
My STS research examines the evolving role of signals intelligence (SIGINT) through the lens of Actor-Network Theory (ANT). It focuses on how interactions among state agencies, technology providers, and civil society shape surveillance practices. The central question guiding this analysis is: “How do the interactions among actors in the SIGINT network influence privacy and security concerns in society?” Through case studies and policy analysis, this research illustrates that while SIGINT enhances national security, it also introduces ethical challenges concerning oversight, individual privacy rights, and corporate accountability. The findings aim to inform regulatory frameworks and guide decision-makers toward more responsible and transparent SIGINT practices.
Together, the technical and STS research present a cohesive narrative: while tools and scripts can enhance operational efficiency in intelligence-related environments, these improvements must be critically examined within broader social and ethical contexts. My internship provided insights into the practical benefits of automation, while the STS analysis underscored the societal stakes associated with surveillance technologies. By bridging these perspectives, this work emphasizes the importance of both technical innovation and responsible governance in shaping the future of cybersecurity and digital rights. The integration of these projects has not only sharpened my analytical skills but also deepened my understanding of the ethical implications of technological advancements, equipping me to contribute thoughtfully to discussions on technology and society.