Sixteen cadets from six squadrons across the New Jersey Wing gathered at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst for the wing’s third annual cyber academy for two days devoted to increasing their cybersecurity knowledge and awareness while absorbing inspiration to consider careers in the field.
“This academy not only strengthens our cadets’ understanding of cybersecurity but also empowers them to become leaders in one of the most critical fields of the 21st century,” said Col. Amy Myzie, New Jersey Wing commander. “By working with experts from government, military, and industry, our cadets gain practical insights and inspiration that will serve them throughout their lives.”
Participants gained introductory knowledge in areas such as data privacy and technology, managing risk in a digital information age, and opportunities in cyber defense within both the military and corporate sectors.
A highlight of this year’s academy was a full-day immersive experience with the New Jersey Air National Guard’s 140th and 227th cyberspace operations squadrons, giving cadets received a firsthand look at military cyber operations. The day’s events were planned and led by Senior Master Sgts. Christopher Motta of the 140th Cyberspace Operations Squadron and Allan DeGuzman of the 227th Cyberspace Operations Squadron, along with a 13-member team from the New Jersey Air National Guard units.
Officers from the FBI, New Jersey State Police, U.S. Air Force Cyber Command, and U.S. Air Force Admissions Office and a Civil Air Patrol CyberPatriot coach conducted instructor-led sessions, hands-on exercises, and case studies. Cadets learned cybersecurity basics to protect their personal digital lives and gained insights into the biggest security challenges facing companies, governments, and educational institutions.
While not a programming or technically intensive course, the training was especially beneficial for cadets preparing for the Air Force and Space Force’s annual CyberPatriot competition or considering a college degree or career in cybersecurity.
To qualify, cadets completed the Cyberspace Familiarization Course. Building on that foundation, the curriculum covered topics such as data privacy and security, phishing and hacking case studies, financial fraud and ransomware, cyber forensics, careers in government and military cybersecurity, social media risks, cryptocurrency, blockchain, and college-level cyber programs.
In addition to lectures, cadets participated in breakout sessions and team exercises, applying their training to real-world scenarios.
At the graduation ceremony, New Jersey Wing Deputy Commander Lt. Col. Michael Sperry presented graduation certificates to cadets and certificates of appreciation to adult members who supported the academy.
The cadets came from the Bud Jackson, Curtiss-Wright, Gen. Jimmy Stewart, Pineland, Raritan Valley, and Twin Pine composite squadrons.
