HANCEVILLE, Ala. – Wallace State Community College’s Computer Science program recently introduced local students to the dynamic world of cybersecurity through an AFA CyberPatriot Camp, co-hosted by the college and the North Central Alabama STEM Ecosystem.
CyberPatriot is the National Youth Cyber Education Program created by the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) to inspire K-12 students to pursue careers in cybersecurity and other STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields critical to the nation’s future.
Over the course of the five-day camp, students explored the fundamentals of cybersecurity, including how to secure Windows and Linux operating systems against cyberattacks. They also learned about the tactics cybercriminals use to exploit system vulnerabilities.
“They’re learning how to secure computers so that only authorized users have access,” said Wallace State Computer Science instructor Greg Knight. Knight, along with U.S. Air Force volunteer Patrick Wade, led the camp’s instruction. “That includes protecting against password attacks, ensuring systems are updated, and verifying that only approved software is installed,” Knight added.
Students also had the opportunity to hear from Joe Parker of the Department of Homeland Security’s Critical Infrastructure Agency.
“He spoke about the various threats posed by bad actors targeting our critical infrastructure — from health care and utilities to agriculture — and the efforts underway to defend against those threats,” Knight added.
Kyeler Hill, a student from Addison, said the camp opened his eyes to the real-world impact of cybersecurity.
“I was surprised by how far bad actors will go to disrupt infrastructure — even affecting what farmers spray on their soil,” Hill said.
The experience solidified Hill’s interest in computer science. He’s now considering enrolling at Wallace State as a Dual Enrollment student next year.
“It pointed me in a direction,” he said. “I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do, but this gave me a clear idea. It’s made me enjoy computer science more and helped me find a path I’m excited about.”
Knight said the college plans to host this version of the CyberPatriot Camp again next year, along with an advanced version.
Cybersecurity is one several degree options through Wallace State’s Computer Science program. There is a General Studies option in Cybersecurity for students who will transfer to seek a four-year degree and pathways for Cybersecurity and Networking that offers short-term certificate and degree options. For more information about the Computer Science program, visit www.wallacestate.edu/computerscience.
