Program Highlight

Business Department Chair & Computer Science Instructor Keith Morgan leads a cybersecurity club discussion.

Into the Breach

MMA cybersecurity club launches this spring.

Information security — i.e., cybersecurity — is one of the fastestgrowing, most in-demand skills in the information technology field, and that is why Missouri Military Academy has added a cybersecurity program to its academic offerings and has applied for a JROTC cyber security pilot program. This spring, cadets interested in learning about cybersecurity will have the opportunity to join the MMA CyberTeam.

Learning through a combination of CyberRange* exercises, classroom training and individual study, MMA’s CyberTeam will explore Windows and Linux operating systems and learn how to spot vulnerabilities, fend off attacks, protect a network and immediately respond to cyber emergencies. Cadets will learn more than theory — they will hone their methodology through simulations, gaining direct experience penetrating and defending systems using real tools, attacks and scenarios that cybersecurity professionals employ.

When they are ready, CyberTeam members will put their newfound skills to the test in professional competitions with Future Business Leaders of America, National Cyber League and CyberPatriot. These resume-enhancing competitions offer skill-building and scholarship opportunities.

There are no prerequisites to joining MMA’s CyberTeam — only the desire, discipline and commitment to learn an advanced and complex skill set. Combining analytical and technical skills, cybersecurity challenges cadets to simultaneously think critically and formulaically.

As with all programs at MMA, cadets who commit to the cybersecurity program must make an ethical commitment to uphold the highest professional standards. With great knowledge comes great responsibility — something MMA will emphasize in every CyberTeam lesson.

*CyberRange is a cloud-hosted platform operated by Virginia Tech that provides students and educators with virtual environments to perform hands-on cybersecurity exercises.