CIAT Cybersecurity Club

Empowering the Next Generation of Cybersecurity Professionals

Welcome to CIAT’s new hub for cybersecurity enthusiasts! Our club is more than just a gathering – it’s a community dedicated to fostering excellence in cybersecurity education and practical skills development. Whether you’re taking your first steps into information security or looking to advance your existing expertise, we’ve found your home.

As a member, you’ll have access to hands-on workshops, engaging speaker series, networking events, and opportunities to participate in exciting Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. Join us in building a stronger, more secure digital future.

Cybersecurity Club JOIN THE CLUB!

Why Join Us?

Market rising
Industry Growth

The cybersecurity field is experiencing unprecedented growth with over 700,000 open positions in the US alone. Join us to gain valuable experience!

Wrench in hand
Hands-on Experience

Participate in workshops, CTF competitions, and real-world projects to build practical skills valued by employers.

Network nodes
Network Growth

Connect with industry professionals, mentors, and fellow students passionate about cybersecurity.

Join us

What Students Can Expect

Immersive Learning
Engage in Immersive Learning
  • Participate in hands-on workshops covering penetration testing, network security, malware analysis, and security tools
  • Develop a strong foundation in cybersecurity skills
Industry Expert
Learn from Industry Experts
  • Attend presentations and technical deep dives by guest speakers
  • Gain career insights and guidance through interactive Q&A sessions
Professional Network
Network with Professionals
  • Join meet-and-greet events, alumni connections, mentorship programs, and collaborative projects
  • Build a robust professional network within the cybersecurity community

Virtual Club Meetings

Stay connected and grow your skills through our dynamic virtual events! Our online meetings create an interactive space where you can learn, collaborate, and build relationships with fellow cybersecurity enthusiasts.

Regular Virtual Hangouts

Virtual hangouts form the backbone of our online community. These sessions are designed to keep you engaged and learning:

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    Featuring technical discussions where we explore current cybersecurity trends, new threats, and emerging technologies

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    Problem-solving sessions that challenge you with real-world scenarios and build critical thinking skills

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    Tool demonstrations showcasing essential security tools, techniques, and best practices

Cybersecurity Club Bear

NATIONAL
CYBERSECURITY
AWARENESS
MONTH

October filled with comprehensive learning experiences with special events and activities!

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    Special workshops covering advanced topics and emerging threats

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    Guest presentations from industry experts sharing real-world experiences and insights

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    Security challenges that test your skills and knowledge in a supportive environment

Why CTF Matters

Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions provide invaluable hands-on security experience, allowing participants to tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges. These events emphasize problem-solving and foster team collaboration, sharpening both technical and interpersonal skills. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, CTFs help you grow your expertise and confidence in a competitive environment.

Competition Details

CIAT hosts regular internal CTF competitions, offering an engaging way for students to hone their skills. We also participate in regional events, providing exposure to a broader community. With beginner-friendly challenges and advanced tracks, there’s something for everyone, regardless of skill level.

Meet the Faculty

Shannon Zoch
Shannon Zoch
Cybersecurity Faculty

Shannon served in the Navy for 28 years as an Electronic Technician, Cryptology Officer, and Cybersecurity Team Lead. He has worked cyber operations with NSA Red Team and USCYBERCOMMAND for eight years. He has now been a CISSP instructor with CIAT for almost a year.

Eva Pellegrini
Eva Pellegrini
Associate Dean of Education

With over 15 years of experience in cybersecurity, information assurance, Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), FedRAMP, and Risk Management Framework (RMF), Holds a Master’s in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance and certifications including CISSP, CISM, CEH, and Security+.

Enoc Torres
Enoc Torres
Cybersecurity Faculty

Passionate Cybersecurity Instructor at CIAT with over 18 years in Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) within the US Department of Defense. Expertise in system administration, virtualization, and training. Holds multiple certifications including CISSP, CCSP, and 8 CompTIA certifications.

Join the Club!

Ready to find your cybersecurity community? At CIAT, we're more than just meetings and competitions—we're building a community of passionate learners who support each other's growth, share ideas, tackle challenges together, and make lasting connections. Regardless of your experience level, come as you are, grow with us, and be part of something bigger than yourself. The digital world needs defenders like you—and we're saving you a spot. Join our cybersecurity community today!

Get Connected:
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Go Grizzlies!

Address

401 Mile of Cars Way #100, National City, CA 91950

Phone

(877) 559-3621

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