Networking and Growth: Highlights from CyberWeek @ UNLV

If there was one central theme that echoed throughout October’s CyberWeek @ UNLV, it was the importance of networking. The event, which kicked off National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, served as a valuable platform for students and professionals alike to connect, learn, and grow in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.

Valuable Networking Insights

During the Cybersecurity Professional Panel, Chris Forte, the president of the local nonprofit C2Society, passionately shared with attendees the significant role networking has played in his career. He expressed a desire to have begun networking sooner, offering students this crucial advice:

“Join a community and surround yourself with people who challenge you,” he said. Forte emphasized that continued exposure to diverse individuals in the field would not only foster personal growth but also unveil opportunities that students may have never anticipated.

A Week of Learning and Collaboration

The inaugural CyberWeek was a collaborative effort between the Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering and the Lee Business School. According to Professor Greg Moody, who directs both the bachelor’s and master’s cybersecurity programs at UNLV, the goal was to create engaging events for students at all academic levels while also fostering partnerships with industry professionals.

Activities featured a diverse lineup, including panel discussions with cybersecurity experts, a hands-on capture-the-flag competition, a job fair, and an exciting esports competition, ensuring that there were ample opportunities for students to gain practical knowledge and experience.

Preparing the Future Cyber Workforce

Engaging students in cybersecurity education before they reach college age is critical in building a robust workforce. This initiative was underscored by events such as CCSD Tech Day, where more than 140 students from local schools visited UNLV for lab tours and discussions with industry experts.

Professor Juyeon Jo highlighted the university’s commitment to extending its outreach efforts. “We have been welcoming CCSD students to UNLV’s GenCyber Camp for the past seven years. CyberWeek enabled us to extend our reach even further,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of early education in cybersecurity.

High school students also participated in an esports competition hosted by Valhallan Esports Training, showcasing how gaming can serve as a dynamic entry point into the cybersecurity field.

Mentorship and Industry Experience

Industry collaboration played a significant role throughout CyberWeek, as students had the chance to hear stories and advice from experienced professionals. Jennifer Cramer, strategic account director for EVOTEK and vice president of the Thrive Network for Women, shared her own journey in a career pivot and the importance of mentorship.

“I wish I had found mentors sooner,” she reflected, stressing her intention to inspire students through her presence at the event. Many attendees, like graduate student Thien Nguyen, echoed similar sentiments, pointing out the value of learning from professionals who have navigated similar paths.

CISO Panel Insights

One of the highlights for students nearing graduation was the CISO Panel, which featured executives from companies such as Credit One Bank, MGM Resorts International, and Southwest Gas. The panelists shared key insights on what they seek in candidates and how students can differentiate themselves during the job hunt.

“For me, it was beneficial to hear from different CISOs about what they value in a potential hire,” shared Hareign Casaclang, a master’s student and CyberCorps SFS scholar who participated in a speed-interview format.

Networking in Action

In addition to formal engagements, students had opportunities to practice their networking skills at a VIP reception, facilitating one-on-one conversations with the panelists. Daman Sandhu, a master’s student in management information systems, expressed gratitude for the chance to engage with top industry professionals, stating, “It was enriching to discuss the diverse aspects of cybersecurity with executives who don’t all come from a cyber background.”

Bob Leek, CISO for Clark County, took the opportunity to drive home the message of networking: “If you are not networking, do it. If you are networking, do more of it. Invest in your network because they will invest in you.”

Key Takeaways from CyberWeek

CyberWeek @ UNLV placed a spotlight on the necessity of combining technical skills with networking and community-building. Here are five key takeaways that resonated across all events:

• Connections Matter: Success goes beyond academic performance; it’s built on the relationships forged during your journey.

• Seize Opportunities: Don’t wait for perfection. Take the leap when chances arise, or you may miss out on important openings.

• Continuous Learning: Embrace challenges outside your comfort zone as they are crucial for growth.

• Find Your Community: Networking transcends mere professional encounters; it’s about building supportive relationships.

• Adaptability is Key: Stay flexible in an industry that is continuously evolving with technology changes.

This vibrant event not only underlined the importance of networking but also provided a comprehensive platform for students to engage meaningfully with professionals in the cybersecurity landscape.