The Institute for Cyber Security (ICS) leads regional and statewide outreach efforts to strengthen cybersecurity education, awareness, and workforce development. Through hands-on programs, live training events, partnerships with schools, and community engagement, the ICS connects learners of all ages with real-world cybersecurity skills. These initiatives support the development of a cyber-ready workforce while inspiring the next generation of cybersecurity leaders.
CyberCon
CyberCon 2026 is a three-day, hands-on cybersecurity conference hosted by the Institute for Cyber Security. The event brings together practitioners, educators, government partners, industry leaders, and students for real-world technical sessions, collaborative training, and applied cybersecurity learning. Programming focuses on workforce development, IT and OT security, digital forensics, open-source intelligence, and emerging technologies driving modern cyber operations.
K–12 Cybersecurity Education and Awareness
The ICS is committed to building cybersecurity awareness from the earliest stages of learning. Through K–12 outreach, the ICS delivers interactive lessons, hands-on activities, and engaging discussions that introduce students to cybersecurity concepts and digital safety practices.
Programs emphasize practical skill-building, critical thinking, and real-world application. By connecting classroom instruction with applied experience, the ICS helps young learners explore future career pathways and fosters cyber awareness across schools and communities.
Cyber Safety Summit
The Cyber Safety Summit is one of the region’s largest youth-focused cybersecurity events, empowering students with essential knowledge on online safety, digital responsibility, and emerging cyber risks. Hosted annually, the Summit brings together educators, safety professionals, and industry experts to deliver high-impact sessions tailored for middle and high school students.
The Summit strengthens digital literacy, encourages safe online behavior, and connects students with cybersecurity mentors who guide them as they navigate today’s expanding digital world.
Cyber Experience Day
Cyber Experience Day invites high school students from across the region to Marshall University for a full day of immersive cybersecurity challenges, technical demonstrations, and team-based problem-solving. Students engage in live labs guided by ICS experts and explore pathways in digital forensics, network defense, threat analysis, and cyber operations.
These events offer hands-on exposure to real cybersecurity tools and scenarios, helping students build confidence, discover new interests, and connect with mentors who support their growth in the field.
Community and Industry Partnerships
The ICS works with partners across education, industry, government and community organizations to strengthen cybersecurity readiness and expand regional impact. Through training, outreach and collaborative projects, ICS connects academic learning with real-world needs.
Key partnership areas:
- Cybersecurity awareness and education
- Workforce development and student opportunities
- K–12 and community engagement
- Applied research and technical demonstrations
- Regional initiatives that support economic growth and digital resilience
Get Involved
Schools, organizations and community partners interested in hosting an event or collaborating with the ICS are encouraged to reach out. Our team works directly with partners to design meaningful outreach experiences that engage learners and strengthen cybersecurity awareness.