Competition recognises cyber security talent of the future

The 2017 CyberCenturion National Finals was won by Team SPS ‘B’, from St Paul’s School, London.

The runners up were:

• In 2nd place - Team SPS ‘A’, from St Paul’s School, London
• In 3rd place - Team CyberMen, from King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford

The winning team received technology equipment for their school to help promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and cyber careers, and to provide them with a competitive edge for their future careers. All three teams received trophies and medals and have the opportunity to build networks with individuals in the industry.

“The enthusiasm of the participants and the high standards among the teams in the finals has been impressive to see. We congratulate all of the finalists on their accomplishments, wish them success and look forward to the positive impact they can make in addressing our global security challenges of the future,” said Andrew Tyler (pictured), Chief Executive, Northrop Grumman Europe. “There is a severe shortage of diverse young people entering careers in STEM subjects, and it is up to industry leaders like Northrop Grumman to help rectify this situation. Through CyberCenturion we are helping to inspire and build a diverse cyber workforce to address this global imperative. We look forward to continuing to grow the competition and to seeing more teams and diversity in next year’s competition.”

Andrew Tyler, chief executive Northrop Grumman Europe (left) pictured with the winners of the 2017 CyberCenturion competition from St Paul’s School, London

“Diversity is critical in the profession; as the cyber threat becomes more complex, workforce diversity brings different perspectives, academic backgrounds, experience and problem-solving approaches to addressing the challenges,” said Diane Miller, Director, global cyber education and workforce development programmes at Northrop Grumman. “We are thrilled to be spearheading this effort to address the workforce needs and foster the cyber leadership of tomorrow.”

The ten teams reached the finals after competing in a series of intense qualifying rounds which took place over the last six months between more than 100 teams from across the U.K. and overseas territories. Teams were tasked to defend a fictitious Internet of Things business using their evolving cyber security skills to identify vulnerabilities in the company’s network and systems, repair the problems and maintain the company’s services, while fending off adversaries.

Now in its third consecutive year, CyberCenturion is the UK's first team-based cyber security contest specifically designed to attract 12-18 year olds. It is the U.K. version of the proven CyberPatriot competition, part of a major US national youth cyber STEM education programme presented by the Northrop Grumman Foundation and created by the Air Force Association. It is part of the company's commitment to promoting STEM education and helping build the UK's pool of talent in cyber security. The CyberPatriot competition in the US has engaged more than 300,000 students, educating them on the opportunities in cyber security across the US 80% of those who have taken part in CyberPatriot now plan to pursue a higher education course in cyber or STEM.

Northrop Grumman and the Northrop Grumman Foundation are committed to expanding and enhancing the pipeline of diverse, talented STEM students globally. They provide funding for sustainable STEM programmes that span from pre-school to high school and through to university levels, with a major emphasis on middle school students and teachers.