The Cybersecurity Opportunity
Help your students discover exciting career opportunities in one of American’s fastest-growing fields.
2026 Challenge Schedule
Round One – January 13-15, 2026
Round Two – February 17, 2026
Why Cybersecurity?
As our world becomes increasingly digital, cybersecurity professionals are the heroes protecting everything from your favorite apps to hospital systems, financial institutions, and government agencies. Missouri is experiencing tremendous growth in this field, with cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, and Springfield all seeing major expansion in cybersecurity opportunities across healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
Benefits of This Challenge
Real-World Experience
Work with the same professional cybersecurity tools used by industry experts. From penetration testing to digital forensics, you’ll get hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology that protects organizations worldwide.
Career Discovery
Many students discover their passion for cybersecurity through this challenge. With Missouri’s booming tech sector and excellent universities offering cybersecurity programs, this competition opens doors to exciting career pathways.
College & Career Prep
Participants often earn scholarships and catch the attention of university recruiters. The skills you develop—critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork—are valuable in any STEM field.
Team Building
Work in teams of three to solve engaging, puzzle-like challenges. The collaborative format mirrors real-world cybersecurity work and creates lasting friendships with like-minded peers.
Competition & Fun
Experience the thrill of ethical hacking in a safe, educational environment. The capture-the-flag format makes learning cybersecurity concepts feel like an exciting game.
Innovation Skills
Develop the creative problem-solving mindset that’s essential in cybersecurity. Learn to think like both defender and attacker to stay ahead of emerging digital threats.
How the Challenge Works
Jan 13-15
2026
Round 1: Online Competition
Teams solve cybersecurity puzzles and challenges from their school. Think of it as an escape room for cyber defenders! Test your research skills, logical thinking, and cybersecurity knowledge through engaging capture-the-flag challenges.
Feb 17
2026
Round 2: Finals in Columbia
Top 10 teams compete in person using professional security tools in realistic virtual environments. Work with Windows systems, Linux servers, and complex networks just like cybersecurity professionals do every day.
Success & Impact
2025 Champions
Pattonville High School
Capstoners
Elisha Dukes, Matthew Wasser, and Rhys Harden l
2024 Champions
Summit Technology Academy Sundoers
Arthur Schieszer, Jacob Klipfel, and Thomas Kahler
Growing Statewide
500+ Students Participating
Students from across Missouri discovering cybersecurity careers and pursuing related college programs
“This competition was extremely challenging and fun! I loved the opportunity to solve complex puzzles and work with my teammates. It really opened my eyes to cybersecurity as a career path.” – Recent Participant
“My students were more engaged than I’ve ever seen them. They’re already asking about cybersecurity courses and career options!” – Teacher and Team Coach
See all previous winners
Perfect for Schools and Students
Easy to Get Started
- No prior cybersecurity experience needed
- Teachers don’t need technical expertise
- Students of all skill levels welcome
- Free to participate
- Minimal time commitment
Rich Learning Experience
- Develops critical thinking and problem-solving
- Builds collaboration and communication skills
- Explores high-demand STEM careers
- Connects to real-world applications
- Encourages creative thinking
Educational Resources Available To You
Whether or not you compete, access comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum from Cyber.org. These materials are designed for educators at any technical level and work perfectly in both traditional and virtual classrooms. Teachers and students may also find Enterprise KC’s Getting Started with Cybersecurity Challenges helpful in preparing for the competition.
The Missouri High School Cybersecurity Challenge isn’t just a competition—it’s a gateway to incredible opportunities.
Questions? Contact Andy, our program manager, for more information about this exciting opportunity.
Thank you to our partners
