A Cyber Summer Camp Prepares High Schoolers For Tech Careers

Pitt Cyber, a week-long summer camp for Pittsburgh-area high school students, seeks to develop the next generation of tech workers for both the private and public sectors. 

Founded in 2017, this five-day summer camp is free to attend, and hosted by the University of Pittsburgh’s Cyber, Law, Policy and Security program in partnership with Pitt Information Technology. It utilizes curriculum from the Air Force Association, and students learn how to use and secure different software programs, the ethics of cybersecurity, and about careers in the field. The CyberCamp has been highlighted multiple times by the White House.

“The hope is that Pitt Cyber sparks something that launches a student toward a career in technology with the goal of truly diversifying and creating more equitable opportunities in the tech fields,” said Kate Ulreich, Engagement Leader at Pitt Information Technology.

Camp organizers focus outreach on local public high schools that have a strong contingent of traditionally underserved and/or underrepresented students in technology fields like cybersecurity. 

Students have enrolled in the camp for a diverse range of career goals. One past participant, for example, is studying to be an architect, and signed up for Pitt Cyber to better understand computers and software programs relevant to their field. 

Since its inception, Pitt Cyber has served more than 1,300 students, 95% of whom, on average, say the camp made them interested in pursuing a career in technology. “STEM careers are in high demand, so it’s up to our generation to make sure that demand is met,” said a recent Pitt Cyber camper.