Cadets from across Civil Air Patrol expanded their cybersecurity abilities and aspirations at the North Central Region Cyber Academy, traveling from as far as Guam and Alaska for five days of intensive training.
The academy at Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota, immersed participants in comprehensive cybersecurity education, covering essential topics from cyber ethics and virtual machine operations to advanced networking concepts involving routers, switches, and internet protocol configurations. Cadets gained hands-on experience with Windows security policies, Linux command line operations, mobile device forensics, and real-world threat-monitoring systems.
The session provided “an excellent opportunity for cadets to explore the possibilities of a career in cyber,” said Maj. Richard Rezac, activity director for the academy as well as director of plans and programs for the North Central Region. “It was a great experience to offer this to our future leaders. I’m looking forward to expanding this academy to provide more options next year.
“CAP is at its best when we look to the future, see what will benefit our cadets, and give them avenues to chase their dreams. I’m looking forward to seeing these cadets have successful careers in cyber and creating other venues for them to pursue different fields,” Rezac said.
Real-World Learning ExperiencesAs part of the academy’s practical approach to cybersecurity education, cadets toured Dakota State’s state-of-the-art “MadLabs” cybersecurity facility and the university’s academic server room, providing behind-the-scenes access to the infrastructure powering modern computing environments. The visit included a look at live cyber threat monitoring systems, with participants witnessing real-time cyberattacks occurring globally, transforming abstract concepts into tangible realities.
The week also featured tour of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earth Resources Observation and Science Data Center, where cadets met professionals responsible for safeguarding critical Earth observation data and learned about real-world applications of cyber defense.
Industry and Military PartnershipThroughout the week, the academy featured visitors who demonstrate the strong partnerships supporting the program. Mary Albright, CAP’s program manager for cadet career exploration camps; Jeremy Aamold, regional operations director for CAP-USAF liaison officer; and Brett Kubat of the U.S. Air Force all visited to show their support for the initiative.
Career guidance came from industry professionals. including Philip Egeberg from Brookings Municipal Utilities and Chad Knutson and Maj. Tyler Gross from SBS Cybersecurity. They provided valuable insights into diverse career paths within the cybersecurity field. SBS Cybersecurity further demonstrated its commitment by providing a generous donation to support the program’s continued growth.
Hands-On Competition and CollaborationThe academy emphasized teamwork through collaborative learning exercises throughout the week, culminating in an intensive mock competition featuring CyberPatriot cybersecurity challenges and Capture the Flag events. Teams applied their accumulated knowledge in realistic scenarios, with winning participants receiving prizes from Dakota State’s Governors Academy.
Students from the college served as instructors and mentors, creating valuable peer-to-peer learning opportunities and demonstrating the academy’s collaborative educational environment.
Dakota State is one of only 10 institutions nationwide to possess all three prestigious National Security Agency Center of Academic Excellence designations for cybersecurity education and research, along with recognition from the Department of Homeland Security.
“It was an honor to host the Civil Air Patrol cadets on campus as part of their cyber academy,” said Mary S. Bell, dean of the school’s Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences. “These cadets represent the next generation of cyber defenders and operators, and we’re proud to support their growth through hands-on learning, exposure to real-world operations, and a deepened passion for cybersecurity.
“With Dakota State University’s nationally recognized expertise in cybersecurity, it’s a natural fit for us to partner in shaping the future leaders of this critical field.”
National Expansion PlansBuilding on the success of cyber academies conducted in Texas and Virginia, Civil Air Patrol is evaluating the North Central Region program for potential National Cadet Special Activity status. Meanwhile, discussions continue with Dakota State University on expanding the academy’s offerings for the coming year.
The academy’s curriculum aligns with national cybersecurity education standards while providing practical, hands-on training that prepares participants for real-world challenges. From cyber ethics to advanced networking, from competitive exercises to professional facility tours, the program equips cadets with knowledge, skills, and professional connections that will serve them throughout their careers.
Building Tomorrow’s Cyber WorkforceCAP’s investment in cybersecurity education reflects the growing importance of digital defense in national security and economic stability. The academy’s goal extends beyond technical training to forge lifelong passion for cyber careers among cadets, increasing cybersecurity knowledge and awareness at a critical time when the nation faces a significant shortage of qualified professionals in the field.
The partnership with Dakota State provides cadets access to cutting-edge facilities and expertise that would otherwise be unavailable to most high school-age students. The early exposure to professional-level cybersecurity education gives participants a significant advantage as they pursue higher education and career opportunities in the field.
In addition to Guam and Alaska, cadets also hailed from the Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Utah wings, along with 10 adult members from Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Tennessee._____Capt. Mimi KlostermanAssistant Public Affairs OfficerSouth Dakota Wing
