AFA WMC Support

The Air and Space Forces Association Wright Memorial Chapter (AFA WMC) proudly supports the CyberPatriot Program as part of our commitment to advancing STEM education and developing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and leaders. Our involvement includes:

• Program Sponsorship: Providing financial support and organizational resources to help schools and teams participate in local and national CyberPatriot competitions.
• Mentorship and Training: Connecting students with cybersecurity professionals and mentors who offer technical guidance and career insight.
• Community and Industry Engagement: Partnering with educators, local organizations, and businesses to expand awareness of cyber education and workforce opportunities.
• STEM and Cyber Advocacy: Promoting cyber awareness, digital safety, and interest in cybersecurity careers throughout the Miami Valley and beyond.

NYCDC Schedule Overview

The CyberPatriot program operates year-round, offering training, outreach, and educational opportunities for students, teachers, and community members. Within this broader effort, the National Youth Cyber Defense Competition (NYCDC) follows an annual cycle that runs from fall through early spring.

Each NYCDC season begins with practice and qualifying rounds in the fall and culminates in the National Finals in March. Teams compete remotely during designated weekends, applying cybersecurity skills to defend virtual networks from simulated cyberattacks and demonstrating teamwork, critical thinking, and technical expertise.

For current season dates and registration details, visit the official CyberPatriot Competition Schedule: https://www.uscyberpatriot.org/competition/current-competition/competition-schedule.

Other CyberPatriot Programs

In addition to the NYCDC, the CyberPatriot Program includes a variety of initiatives that broaden cyber education across all age groups:

• Elementary School Cyber Education Initiative (ESCEI): A free curriculum introducing younger students to online safety, coding, and basic cybersecurity concepts through interactive lessons.
• Cyber Education Literature Series: Story-based materials designed for elementary school students that teach cyber safety and digital citizenship through engaging characters and narratives.
• CyberCamps: Summer or after-school programs that give students hands-on experience with cybersecurity tools, Windows and Linux systems, and defensive strategies in a fun, educational environment.
• CyberGenerations: A senior-focused program that teaches older adults how to stay safe online by recognizing scams, securing personal devices, and protecting digital identities.
• Tech Caregiver Program: A certification program that prepares students and volunteers to assist senior citizens in improving their cybersecurity practices and protecting personal information online.

Together, these programs ensure that CyberPatriot reaches learners of all ages—building a cyber-aware community from the classroom to retirement. For additional information contact Dr. Brian W. Kowal (kowalbn@ucmail.uc.edu) or visit the CyberPatriot website at https://www.uscyberpatriot.org/.