The students and faculty of the Department of Computer Science have received high praise for their exceptional performance during the National Cyber League (NCL) Fall 2024 Competition Season. In a letter of recognition addressed to Professor and Department Chair Shangping Ren, the team’s efforts were celebrated for showcasing their cybersecurity expertise and commitment to professional growth.

The NCL, powered by Cyber Skyline, is a renowned competition designed to simulate real-world cybersecurity challenges that professionals encounter daily. By participating, students reinforce their academic learning and gain critical workforce-ready skills. They earn detailed skills reports demonstrating their capabilities to potential employers, bridging the gap between classroom curriculum and career readiness.

Under the guidance of Peter Bartoli, Lecturer of Computer Science, the SDSU team participated in individual and team events. Their combined efforts secured an impressive #19 national ranking in the Cyber Power Rankings. This competition featured over 9,260 students from 550 colleges and universities nationwide.

Seven standout students were highlighted for their contributions: Jayden Dy, Bryan Zublin, Jack Pesek, Nick Porter, Gerald Wolf, Keigo Morita, and Eli Mishriki. Their teamwork, dedication, and technical prowess were integral to their success.

The letter also emphasized Professor Peter Bartoli’s instrumental role in fostering the students’ success. Through his support and encouragement, the SDSU participants excelled, demonstrating their readiness to join the ranks of cybersecurity professionals.

This achievement reflects not only the talent and hard work of the SDSU community but also their commitment to advancing cybersecurity education and professional development. The university’s top-20 national placement underscores its growing reputation as a leader in preparing students for high-demand, high-stakes careers in cybersecurity.

The Department of Computer Science and its team deserve commendation for their outstanding performance, which continues to raise the bar for academic and professional excellence in the field.