Protecting technology and information
To realize the romance of space development

Graduates of the Faculty of International Studies
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
Security and Information Technology Promotion Department, Security Management Section
JAXA-CSIRT Deputy CSIRT Director
Chief/CISA/GSEC/Certified SIM3 Auditor

Yoshiaki Mashita

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Yoshiaki Mashita works in cybersecurity at JAXA, the organization responsible for the romantic research and development of space exploration, which holds infinite possibilities. In space development, where vast amounts of data and technology are accumulated and progress is made in collaboration with many countries and companies, cybersecurity is extremely important and carries great responsibility.

"Of course, it's important not to leak technology or information, but what's crucial is 'protecting ourselves from attacks by malicious individuals.' In order to strengthen our defenses, a spirit of mutual assistance is essential, including cooperating with various people and exchanging information," says Mashita.

The belief in "working for the sake of people and the world," which is central to my current work, has remained consistent since my student days. The 9/11 attacks in 2001 sparked my interest in international politics, and I decided to study in the Faculty of International Studies because it allowed me to learn about a wide range of subjects, including culture and religion. During my time at university, I also participated in overseas volunteer work, working alongside local people. Furthermore, while at the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, I acquired knowledge of information security from scratch, a field I had previously had no connection to, in order to respond to cyberterrorism, a new international threat.

Despite coming from a liberal arts background far removed from space development, Ms. Mashita plays a leading role in JAXA's security measures. Behind her lies an insatiable curiosity for the unknown and a willingness to spare no effort in actually jumping in and contributing. She says that the foundation for this was cultivated during her student days. "I never imagined I would work at JAXA back then. During your student days, you need to build a foundation for thinking about things. And if you work steadily to turn your aspirations into mere dreams, before you know it, a path will open up for you."

The field of space development is rapidly growing, with many companies entering the market. To ensure its safety, Mr. Mashita continues to fight threats every day.

Mashita's Now & Back

Now
Daughter Goes to J. F. Oberlin Junior High School School: Absorbing Spirit Through Two Generations Seeing her hardworking father, the daughter chose to attend J. F. Oberlin Junior High School herself, saying, "I want to study at the same school as my father." When talking about the future, she advises, based on her own experiences, "It's fine to do any job, but do something that benefits others."

Then
Participating in overseas volunteer work was a turning point in my life. In the summer of my second year of university, I participated in a tree-planting volunteer program in Fiji. Working with people from different cultures and with different values gave me the opportunity to learn the importance of diversity. What I saw and experienced with my own eyes became a treasure in my life that I could not have learned just by reading books.

Yoshiaki

In 2002, he enrolled in the Faculty of International Studies. He graduated early in 2004 and went on to the Meiji University Graduate School of Public Policy. In 2007, he joined the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, where he was involved in criminal investigations, international terrorism countermeasures, and cyberattack countermeasures. After changing jobs to a private company, he joined JAXA in 2023, where he is working to address security threats.

Information

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)

Commonly known as JAXA, it was founded in 2003. Positioned as the core implementing agency that supports the entire government's space development and utilization through technology, it consistently conducts activities in this field, from basic research to development and utilization.

Interview date:
*This interview was conducted in December 2024 for the university's public relations magazine, "JF Oberlin Tokyo No. 13".

Protecting technology and informationTo realize the romance of space development

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Mashita's Now & Back

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Protecting technology and information
To realize the romance of space development