Start by exploring your interests within cybersecurity and researching different roles. Find like-minded students at your school or nearby schools through clubs such as CyberPatriot teams, which you can join to gain hands-on experience. Learning to code with Python or other computer languages increases your understanding of how the technology works. Taking technology-related courses and engaging in projects like building your own lab can also help you build valuable skills and connections in the field. Many organizations also offer free online courses and "Capture the Flag" competitions that can help you build foundational skills.

Here is a list of current teams:
• Washington County Composite Squadron, Hillsboro, OR
• Gorge Composite Squadron, Oregon Wing, Civil Air Patrol, Hood River, OR
• Aurora Composite Squadron, Aurora/Portland, OR
• Oregon Mathletics, Portland, OR
• Westview High School, Portland, OR
• Youth CyberDefender, Portland, OR

Other Cyber opportunities in Oregon/SW Washington:
NW CyberCamp 
ChickTech 
Blacks In Tech
2024 OC3

In high school, consider taking classes in computer science, mathematics, and information technology to build a solid foundation. In college, focus on courses related to cybersecurity fundamentals, ethical hacking, and programming languages. Specialized courses can further enhance your skills and knowledge in specific areas of interest.

There are numerous job roles in cybersecurity, including security analyst, penetration tester, cybersecurity engineer, and incident responder. Salaries can vary widely based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $60,000 to $80,000, while specialized roles can earn significantly more, especially with experience and certifications.

Absolutely! Cybersecurity offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals with diverse interests and skills. Many positions allow you to work on projects that align with your passions, whether that’s ethical hacking, cybersecurity education, or developing security policies.

Absolutely! Cybersecurity is not just about coding and hacking. Many roles focus on communication, management, problem-solving, and even creativity. You could work in areas like policy development, risk assessment, incident response, project management, or user education. The field offers diverse opportunities, allowing you to find a role that aligns with your strengths and interests.

While many positions in cybersecurity prefer candidates with a degree, there are also many entry-level opportunities that require certifications or relevant experience. Some successful professionals in the field have pursued alternative pathways, such as boot camps, self-study, or internships.

Yes, building your own lab is an excellent way to demonstrate your initiative and hands-on skills. It shows potential employers that you are proactive and have practical experience, which can be valuable when applying for jobs or internships.

Yes, many organizations offer job shadowing and internship programs for students interested in cybersecurity. These opportunities allow you to gain real-world experience, learn from professionals, and explore different roles within the field. 

In Oregon and SW Washington, several organizations and programs provide opportunities for high school students to explore cybersecurity careers through internships and job shadowing. Some of these include: 

• NW Cyber Camp – This summer camp offers hands-on experience in cybersecurity for high school students. While not a job shadow program, it gives participants a chance to learn from professionals in the field and network with potential employers. 
• Portland General Electric (PGE) – PGE often has internships and job shadow opportunities, particularly in IT and cybersecurity, for students interested in critical infrastructure protection. 
• Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) – As part of the federal government, BPA offers internships in cybersecurity and IT fields, which may be available to high school students or recent graduates. 
• Intel Corporation – Intel, headquartered in Oregon, has an internship program that may offer opportunities in cybersecurity and IT fields, focusing on students passionate about technology. 
• Cybersecurity and IT Camps and Internships through Local Colleges – Community colleges like Portland Community College (PCC) and Clark College in Vancouver, WA, frequently offer cyber camps, workshops, and internships in partnership with local companies. 

These organizations provide great starting points for internships or job shadowing to see if a cybersecurity career is a good fit. Additionally, you can reach out to local tech companies and utilities, as many offer customized programs for high school students. 

Several community and 4 year colleges in Oregon & Washington have reputable cybersecurity programs, offering a range of degrees and certificates designed to prepare students for careers in cybersecurity and I.T.

Here are a few: 

• Community Colleges: Affordable associate degrees and certifications (e.g., MHCC, PCC, Clark College). 
• Portland State University: Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity focusing on ethical hacking and secure coding. 
• University of Washington: Master’s in Cybersecurity Engineering and specialized training. 
• Oregon State University: Online Bachelor's in Computer Science with a focus on cybersecurity.

While not always required, obtaining certifications can significantly enhance your employability and demonstrate your knowledge and skills to employers. Popular certifications include CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions are hands-on challenges that allow participants to practice their cybersecurity skills in a gamified environment. These competitions often involve solving puzzles, hacking into simulated systems, and collaborating with others, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities. Here are some CTFs to get you started:

• PicoCTF  
• Cyber Skyline  
• Hacker101 CTF  
• TryHackMe  
• GoogleCTF  
• Mitre Cyber Academy  
• National Cyber League  
• Major League Cyber 
• CyberStart  
• SANS NetWars  
• HackTheBox