CyberPatriots is a club in which students use their computer skills, as individuals and as a team, to solve problems in a competition setting. At competitions, teams are given six hours to solve a variety of problems in order to secure multiple computers from vulnerabilities such as malware or shady networks and services.
The CyberPatriots program, originally created by the Air Force, was designed to inspire students toward careers in Cybersecurity. The deep level of problem solving and computer skills in a competitive environment make this activity enjoyable as well as challenging for many. “One of the best feelings is when you figure out how to solve a problem with the task you are given which benefits the whole team”, said Jason Koch, junior.
In recent years, the HR CyberPatriots team has been very successful, going to nationals in previous years and even winning state again this year. But the rewards for CyberPatriots are bigger than just medals.
Grayson Northrip, senior, said, “One of the best things about CyberPatriots is how applicable it is to job opportunities. By doing CyberPatriots, you can gain a lot of job opportunities, internships, and also scholarships which can help jumpstart your career in cybersecurity, as well as the tech industry.” This year, Northrip recently received a $4,000 scholarship for competing on the CyberPatriots team.
Although CyberPatriots is very team-oriented, individual skill counts too. Owen Flack, junior, said, “What I like about CyberPatriots is it is a very individualistic team activity. You can do well individually, but you also need your team, which is what I like most about it.”
“If you have an interest in computers and problem solving, go for it,” Tyler Captain, junior, said, “There are always spots on teams, and it is very useful and applicable, even if you decide you don’t like it.”
If you have any questions about CyberPatriots, its requirements, or if you’re interested in joining, contact Nicky Debolt, technology teacher and CyberPatriots coach, at [email protected].
Samuel Hilsden, Staff Reporter
