Valparaiso, IN – Ivy Tech Community College students competed regionally against 40+ teams across the U.S. to secure 1st place in the U.S. 2023 Cyber Challenge. Ivy Tech Valparaiso student, Dustin Price served as team captain of the Western Bootcamp and led his team Terminal Troopers to victory in the Western Cybersecurity Bootcamp Challenge.
Earlier this summer, Ivy Tech students competed with groups from across the U.S in teams comprised of 3-4 students. The top 3 teams of the Eastern Boot Camp and Western Boot Camp competed in the National U.S CyberBowl Challenge September 29th. The Cyber Challenge is a 24-hour competition in which student participants are in competition for a full 24 hour cycle. Afterward, students are asked to prepare a professional presentation about a potential cyber attack to a group of industry experts and government officials.
I am extremely grateful for the support and leadership that Dustin provided throughout the competition. Winning first place is a testament to the determination and resilience of our students and I couldn't be prouder of them. Our Cyber Security Program is the best program and I am very thankful to Professor Rami for his leadership as well. It truly makes a difference
– Aco Sikoski, Valparaiso Chancellor
On October 3rd Price and Salahieh were invited to attend the ACT/IAC Government Cybersecurity conference in Washington, DC, where they accepted the team’s award. The Center of Internet Security President John M. Gilligan, and the National Director of the U.S. Cyber Challenge, Luke McCormac presented the Gold Belt Award to Price and his teammates.
USCC Cyber Camps feature one week of specialized cybersecurity training that includes workshops, a job fair, and a culminating “Capture the Flag” competition. The workshops and presentations focus on a variety of topics ranging from intrusion detection, penetration testing and forensics. The weeklong program ends with a competitive “Capture the Flag” competition and an awards ceremony attended by notables in the cybersecurity industry and government.
Our students formulate some of the best cyber security strategies. This award speaks to their incredible efforts, determination and dedication to be the best in the industry
– Rami Salahieh, Program Chair
For those interested in registering for courses or learning more about current cybersecurity course offerings at Ivy Tech Community College please contact either Rami Salahieh, Program Chair at rsalahieh@ivytech.edu or Ben Marrero, Dean at bmarrero@ivytech.edu for more information.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
