Retired Penn College professor dedicates IT book to students

A recently retired Pennsylvania College of Technology faculty member is sharing her information technology expertise and appreciation for former students through her latest book.

Lisa Bock, who retired in May as an associate professor of computer information technology, has written “Identity Management With Biometrics,” a 368-page book that describes how to select the right biometric system and details the steps for implementing identity management and authentication.

“Biometrics is measuring and analyzing a person’s unique characteristics, both physical and behavioral, for the purpose of authenticating their identity,” Bock explained. “It has become commonplace in law enforcement and is a vital tool for both public and corporate entities. I’m hopeful this book will be a very useful guide for organizations and companies when considering the use of biometrics.”

The 14-chapter book serves as a guide for choosing a specific type of biometric authentication by comparing various options, providing examples and offering self-assessment questions. Biometric techniques covered include fingerprint, iris, voice, palm print and facial recognition.

Bock dedicated the book to the “thousands” of IT students she had the honor of teaching at Penn College. “Teaching you was the best part of my day,” she wrote. “You made it fun! I enjoyed your curiosity, ambition, sense of humor and willingness to learn. … Thank you for letting me be part of your life.”

“Identity Management With Biometrics” is published by Packt, a Birmingham, England, company that has published more than 6,500 books and videos geared to enhancing the skills of IT professionals worldwide. 

Bock earned a master’s degree from the University of Maryland University College and holds numerous certifications. She’s been trained in forensics, networking, steganography and network security. For 17 years, she taught courses at Penn College ranging from networking to biometrics and security to unified communications.                                                         

“With her passion for the subject matter and teaching, Lisa, without a doubt, inspired countless students who are now IT professionals,” said Bradley M. Webb, dean of engineering technologies. “It’s no surprise to see that she continues to impart her expertise in retirement. I’m sure she will continue to do so for many years.”

Bock is working on her third book, which she expects to be published in the summer of 2021. The subject will be cryptography. Her first book, “Learn Wireshark,” was released in 2019.

Penn College offers several IT-related programs, including bachelor’s degrees in game and simulation programming, information assurance and cyber security, software development and information management, and network administration and engineering technology, as well as an associate degree in information technology: network and user support.

For information about those and other majors offered by the college’s School of Engineering Technologies, call 570-327-4520.

For more about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.