Fly Secure: Empowering Youth to Soar in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity competitions are one of the most powerful ways to inspire and prepare the next generation of professionals. This talk highlights how programs like CyberPatriot, National Cyber League (NCL), and the Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CCDC) help students build real-world skills, teamwork, and confidence. We’ll explore why these competitions matter, what they teach beyond technical knowledge—such as problem-solving and resilience—and how educators, mentors, and community leaders can integrate them into outreach and curriculum. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for promoting participation, guiding students through preparation, and connecting them to local and national opportunities. By leveraging these competitions, we can help youth not only to “fly secure” but also chart a clear path toward thriving careers in cybersecurity.