The United States is facing a shortage of cyber security professionals and as cybercrime increases, there will be an even greater demand in both the public and private sectors for trained professionals that have the required certifications and expertise to support network security teams around the world.
To prepare students for the possibility of engaging in this high-demand field, local schools are empowering students to define a career path through technology. It is an effort that we embrace and support.
In fact, our President and CEO Rene LaVigne was asked to serve as honorary chairman of the first annual Patriots Cyber Security Competition. The purpose of the competition is to allow middle school students in Prince George’s county to explore science and technology through research and interactive learning. Through this competition, we are educating a new generation about the vital need for cyber security, as well as inspiring students to embrace this as a career path in the future.
With the guidance of mentors from government, academia and the industry, students will research a career in cyber security and prepare to present what they have learned at the competition’s awards dinner to be held on February 22 at the Marriott Hotel in Greenbelt, MD. Each team will have an exhibition booth to showcase their cyber security project and then present their findings in a five-minute presentation. A panel of ten judges, comprised of leaders from industry, government and education will choose the winning team.
In addition to giving their presentations, students will have the opportunity to hear the thoughts of the keynote speaker, Admiral Gretchen Herbert, Commander of Navy Cyber Forces.
For 12 years, the Patriots Technology Training Center, based in Seat Pleasant, MD, has offered programs for students ranging in grades 5th to 12th in science, mathematics, engineering and computer technology to encourage college education and careers in those interrelated fields. The Center has partnered with major technology companies, government agencies and foundations to offer innovative programs and mentoring.
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