Web exploitation, cryptography, log analysis, password cracking, Open-Source Intelligence, reverse engineering, forensics – super critical skills if you are a cybersecurity professional. The challenge is how to build and maintain these hands-on skills in an engaging environment regardless of your experience level. A method that has been highly successful and Bellevue University is participation in the National Cyber League. The National Cyber League, or NCL, is a Capture the Flag competition more commonly known as a CTF. In a CTF players solve challenges in various categories and are awarded flags. The team with the most flags at the end of the competition wins.  Nationwide 8,580 students from 510 colleges and universities participated in this most recent season. The 26 students who were members of the Bellevue University NCL team finished the season ranked #26 in the Nation, up from the #50 ranking the previous season. The team received congratulatory letters from both Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and Congressman Mike Flood for their efforts. 

The Bellevue team is currently gearing up for the Spring season of NCL and is looking for students in cybersecurity and related programs who want to grow their skills. No prior CTF experience is required, and training sessions are held throughout the season.  You can find out about the league at https://www.nationalcyberleague.org.  In addition to the practice sessions players will compete in preseason, individual, and team games.  The season runs through April 21st.  If interested contact Prof Douglas Rausch (drausch@bellevue.edu) for more information.