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BYU Cybersecurity Team Secures Victory

Competing remotely while on a work assignment from the Church Education System (CES) Security Operations Center (SOC) at Brigham Young University-Hawaii: Anna Pratt (Captain) Left to right: Justin Giboney (Coach), Garrett Tautkus, Isaac Teuscher, Dallin Kaufman, Hale Croft, Aaron Johnson, Ava Petersen, and Aaron Anderson

[Provo, UT, 2024-02-05] – On Saturday, the Brigham Young University (BYU) Cybersecurity Team emerged triumphant in the qualifying round of the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (RMCCDC), a pivotal step in their journey through the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CCDC).

The team, including alternates, is made up of students specializing in cybersecurity, information systems, and computer science majors. This collaborative approach not only enriches the team's problem-solving capabilities but also mirrors the real-world scenarios they navigate during competitions.

The RMCCDC, a regional segment of the CCDC, witnessed the BYU Cybersecurity Team's exceptional skills as they defended against cyber-attacks from professionals, ensured the availability of computer services, and adeptly handled business tasks assigned by the C-Suite. Their first-place victory over fourteen other teams has earned them a coveted spot among the top eight teams advancing to the regional competition. The other teams advancing to regionals are Brigham Young University-Idaho, Colorado School of Mines, Southern Utah University, United States Air Force Academy, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, and Utah Valley University.

BYU's Cybersecurity Team showcased not only technical expertise but also strategic thinking and teamwork throughout the qualifying round. Facing off against skilled hackers and navigating complex challenges, the team demonstrated resilience, ingenuity, and a commitment to lifelong learning in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity.

Over the years, the BYU Cybersecurity Team has demonstrated a commitment to excellence, placing in the top 10 nationally in 2016 (2nd), 2017 (3rd), 2021, 2022, and 2023. In the regional arena encompassing Utah, Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska, they secured top 8 positions in 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020.

As the team advances to the regional competition, they bring unparalleled experience, strategic thinking, and a legacy of success to the table. The BYU Cybersecurity Team looks forward to further showcasing its capabilities and competing against the best in the region.