Cyber camp for girls breaks stereotypes in security

TLDR:

• More than 100 middle school girls attended the GenCyber Girls in CybHER Security Middle School Residential camp at Dakota State University.
• The camp aims to increase female representation in cybersecurity and STEM fields, offering hands-on activities and diverse curriculum.

The GenCyber Girls in CybHER Security Middle School Residential camp at Dakota State University is aimed at challenging stereotypes and increasing female representation in cybersecurity and STEM fields. The camp, which attracted more than 100 middle school girls, offers a hands-on learning experience with activities such as lock-picking, coding, and building robots. The camp also features guest speakers like Cathy Johnston, who emphasize the importance of cybersecurity literacy.

Initiatives like CybHER have led to a significant increase in the number of female students in cybersecurity programs at Dakota State University. The camp’s curriculum is continuously evolving to sustain interest and attract returning students. Overall, the camp serves as a space where girls can learn and engage in STEM activities without fear of judgment, and where they can be inspired by role models in the field. The ultimate goal is to encourage more women and girls to consider cybersecurity as a viable career option, promoting diversity and inclusivity in the field.