Unpacking the WMU Cybersecurity Summit: A Hub for Connection and Learning
Kalamazoo, Mich.—In today’s hyper-connected world, a robust understanding of cybersecurity is imperative. This need was emphatically addressed at Western Michigan University’s (WMU) annual Cybersecurity Summit, a gathering that unites industry leaders, educators, and eager students to tackle the evolving threats and challenges in the tech landscape.
A Thriving Event
The recent summit took place on October 9 and marked a significant milestone for the university. "This year was a huge success! We had strong student participation and a diverse planning team, twice as many sponsors as last year, and more sessions than ever," said Garald Barton IV, marketing manager for WMU’s Office of Information Technology. This year’s event attracted over 400 attendees, tripling the numbers from the inaugural summit four years ago.
A vibrant array of participants included cybersecurity professionals, K-12 educators, and aspiring tech students eager to learn and network. The event has become a pivotal point for engaging minds and fostering new connections.
Hundreds of students, educators, and cybersecurity and IT professionals networked and learned at the WMU Cybersecurity Summit.
Student-Led Innovations
The planning and execution of the summit were notably driven by students interested in technology-related careers. This involvement, according to Barton, was invaluable, providing them with a platform to influence the content and logistics of the event. "It empowers them to lead, innovate, and grow,” he remarked. Such experiences contribute not just to individual growth, but also to the community’s collective understanding of cybersecurity.
Indeed, one standout feature of this year’s summit was a "capture the flag" competition created by the Western Research Advisory for Vulnerabilities, Exploits, and Networks (WRAVEN). This registered student organization dedicated to cybersecurity challenged participants with tasks ranging from decrypting complex algorithms to solving real-world cybersecurity puzzles.
“It’s a fun way to learn cybersecurity skills,” said Lochlan McElroy, a cybersecurity student and founder of WRAVEN. The aim? To push participants beyond their comfort zones and engage them in practical problem-solving scenarios.
A student competes in the capture the flag challenge.
Insights from Experts
Adding depth to the summit, sessions and panel discussions featured insights from both academia and industry, including FBI Cyber Division’s Assistant Director Brett Leatherman. Students also enjoyed the full-circle moment of hearing from WMU cybersecurity alum Kane Greer, who now works for the city of South Bend as a cybersecurity specialist. Greer shared how his experiences at Western laid the groundwork for his career success, emphasizing the importance of student-professor interactions and extracurricular involvement.
The emphasis on building robust skill sets through both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experiences resonated strongly throughout the event. Greer’s engagement in various programs, including the Bronco Cybersecurity Club and the TechNext program, demonstrated how diverse experiences can enrich a student’s educational journey.
WMU cybersecurity alumnus Kane Greer speaks to students about how he found success in the field.
Networking for Future Opportunities
The summit not only focused on education but also fostered invaluable networking opportunities. As Caden Carr, president of the Business Technology Network, highlighted, such connections could pave the way for future job opportunities or industry references. “I truly believe your network is your net worth,” he stated, underlining the long-term benefits of engaging with fellow attendees.
With more than 60 high school and community college students present, the summit was an ideal recruiting ground for WMU’s cybersecurity program, showcasing the university’s commitment to cultivating talent in this critical field.
Nick Ford represents the Bronco Cybersecurity Club at a table during the summit.
Looking Ahead
The momentum generated by events like the WMU Cybersecurity Summit signifies a broader trend of increasing engagement within the tech community. Plans for future initiatives, including a student-run summit known as Tech Jam, are already underway, with its first iteration incorporating tech startup pitches and competitions focused on social engineering.
As Lochlan McElroy eloquently put it, opportunities for students to engage with cybersecurity are pivotal. "The more experience you have with capture the flag events, competitions, and conferences, the more well-rounded you become in the cyber field.”
The ongoing evolution in cybersecurity education and networking begins at forums like the WMU Cybersecurity Summit, demonstrating the essential interplay between knowledge acquisition and practical experience in shaping the next generation of tech professionals.
For continuous updates on events at Western Michigan University, you can check out WMU News.
