In collaboration with Hennepin Technical College, Information Technology (Network Admin and Cybersecurity) instructor Brian Volkmuth took part in the 2026 Minnesota High School Cyber Challenge as a judge. The February event was the first time the event was held, which is a hands-on campetition to showcase the depth and diversity of careers in information technology.
More than 70 local high schools students attended as a capstone experience who participated in training as part of HTC's National Center of Academic Excellence. Volkmuth participated as a representative of SCTCC's Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.
Students were able to take part in events involving Network Administration, Cybersecurity, Programming, and Technical Computer Applications. Industry leaders also participated to share information about careers in technology and the growing demand for cybersecurity and IT professionals in many industries.
Along with other White Team judges, Volkmuth assessed performance of the challenges which aligned with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Framework. White Teams are an IT industry standard that ensure that security is robust and adaptive.
Volkmuth and HTC instructor Ryan Brovold are planning to develop more comprehensive and in-depth projects in the future for a collaborative effort to meet demand.