Irvine Valley College's collegiate cybersecurity team, IVCyber, recently participated in the Information Technology Competition (ITC). The team, consisting of three members, took on the role of a consulting company and responded to a Request for Information (RFI) from a hypothetical client. This year, the competition was held at Cal Poly Pomona with teams representing Cal Poly Pomona, CSU Long Beach, CSU Fullerton, UCI, IVC, and Case Western Reserve University. IVC was the only 2-year institution to participate amongst 4-year institutions.
Team captain Ian Bagherzadeh expressed his excitement and gratitude for the experience saying, “It was a valuable experience that taught us the business side of cybersecurity." Ian says the competition allowed the team to take on the role of IT consultants and tackle real-world problems. He says, "It showed us that there is more to cybersecurity than just the technical. I am interested in understanding how I can bridge my cybersecurity skills with business."
The competition required the team to pitch their cybersecurity solutions to a panel of judges, which included professionals from the industry. The team had to demonstrate their technical skills, business skills, knowledge of the cybersecurity field, and ability to communicate effectively with clients.
Computer Information Management Instructor and CyberPatriot Program Coordinator Michael Franklin says, “I could not have asked for better students to support their enthusiasm and their role in helping us build our program. I applaud the students for their efforts!”