Hunter Wittenborn, a student in the College of Science at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, received first place in the 2024 U.S. Department of Energy’s CyberForce® Conquer the Hill® Reign Edition Competition. The competition engages participants in a virtual escape room through five distinct levels, where they face challenges in cybersecurity, math, computer science, cryptography, and critical thinking.
“There was definitely a focus on cybersecurity-related topics, an area I've been wanting to dive deeper into,” says Wittenborn.
A sophomore majoring in computer science, Wittenborn admits he’d never participated in competitions like this one. “The biggest obstacle I encountered was simply staying motivated through the 6 plus hours I was competing, alongside the various questions that would stump me at times.”
The competition adopts a video game-inspired format, immersing participants in a fantastical realm where they engage with various characters such as wizards and dragons. The challenge intensifies through each level. Participants must decipher hidden messages and traverse a besieged kingdom, ultimately delving into a dragon’s lair, to complete their quest.
The competition utilizes the National Institute of Standards and Technology NICE Framework, which provides a standardized language for defining cybersecurity roles and the necessary knowledge and skills required for those positions.
Participants in the competition must be at least 18 years old, must be a student at an accredited university or college, and must be seeking an associate’s degree or higher. Wittenborn was victorious over 149 students who entered the competition from 77 universities and colleges.
When offering advice to those considering entering the competition, Wittenborn emphasizes, “Don't be afraid to compete, no matter where you think you are with your skill set.”
“I went into this competition without having done any similar ones, and all I was looking to gain was some sharpening of my skills. Regardless of whether you win, I can promise that you'll grow in your abilities from competitions like this. The knowledge I gained will only help me as I continue forward in my career.”
Wittenborn has discovered a supportive community of fellow science enthusiasts and dedicated faculty members at UAH. “I initially chose UAH because of the opportunities for tech-related growth, which aligns perfectly with my career path as a programmer,” he says.
“Through my time at UAH though, I've also been shown the amazing mentors and friends I've had the chance to meet! It's hard to find this level of community in other places, and I'm proud to call such a supportive environment my home.”
