Faculty win Hackin’ Fest competition
October 31, 2024
The saying, “Those who can’t do, teach,” is not at all true at Dakota State.
Four DSU faculty in The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences proved they certainly can do cybersecurity by winning the Capture the Flag competition at the recent Wild West Hackin’ Fest in Deadwood. The competition was run by MetaCTF, a cyber skills platform that helps companies with cyber talent considerations.
Andrew Kramer, Tyler Flaagan, Cody Welu, and Shawn Zwach attend the annual conference for professional development, but also enjoy taking part in the competitions. “It’s a good opportunity to work on fun problems together as a group,” said Kramer.
There is also satisfaction in proving that academic professionals are capable in the field. A Dakota State faculty group won in 2019, and a team of DSU students won in 2020.
The faculty members also helped provide information at a promotional booth at the conference, and talked with many who were interested in Dakota State degree programs.
Alumnus Gerald Auger was the opening keynote speaker for this year’s hacker festival. He is a cybersecurity expert who hosts the popular “Simply Cyber” podcast.