Local high school and college students explored cybersecurity careers through hands-on workshops and mentorship at Champlain College’s fourth annual Women in Cyber Summit.BURLINGTON, Vt. —Champlain College welcomed students and cybersecurity professionals Friday for its fourth annual Women in Cyber Summit, an event aimed at breaking down barriers and encouraging more women to pursue careers in the male-dominated field.The summit brought together local high school students, Champlain College students and industry professionals for a day of hands-on workshops, networking and mentorship.Participants explored different aspects of cybersecurity, from tracking cryptocurrency scams to learning how investigators use cellphone data to solve crimes. Students also had the opportunity to take apart technology devices to better understand how they work.For some students, the experience offered a new perspective on a potential career path.”I felt like it was important to see this because I, before this, didn’t really feel like I could pursue a career in that area,” said a student from the Center for Technology, Essex. “It’s mostly men in that space.”For Champlain College senior Mila Delmas, who studies digital forensics, the summit marked a full-circle moment. After participating in workshops in previous years, Delmas returned this year to help lead them.”I’m so used to being the only girl in my classes,” Delmas said. “But just knowing that others have struggled with that and have gone on to succeed so well, it’s just a barrier we have to break through within ourselves.”Delmas said the opportunity to transition from workshop participant to leader has also helped her develop her mentorship skills.The event featured speakers from the FBI, U.S. Attorney’s Office and cybersecurity industry, giving students a look at how the field contributes to public safety.Organizers said this year’s summit saw its highest workshop enrollment yet, reflecting growing participation in the annual event.LaKysha Patnode, a senior information assurance advisor and adjunct professor at Champlain College, said creating opportunities for women to connect across different stages of their careers is an important part of the summit’s mission.”You don’t need to be sorry for being there just because you don’t fit what’s typically there,” Patnode said. “You have a voice, speak! We care, we want to hear it, and the industry is moving in that direction. So continuing to make those seats at the table is so, so important.”Organizers hope students leave the summit with a better understanding of cybersecurity, greater confidence in their abilities and perhaps even a new career path in mind.
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