Cleveland Community College cybersecurity students earned recognition in multiple competitions and events throughout October, collecting top finishes at the regional, state, and national levels. The achievements highlight both the strength of CCC’s cybersecurity program and students’ ability to apply their skills in competitive, real-world environments.

“We are proud of the performance of these students,” said Susan Randall, department chair, Information Technology and Mission Critical Operations. “These accomplishments reflect the College’s commitment to providing hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for successful careers in networking and cybersecurity.”

Leading the way was Donnie Adams, who earned first place in the Carolina Cyber Network Virtual Individual Capture the Flag Competition. Competing against 89 participants, Adams demonstrated exceptional technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and cybersecurity skills to secure the top finish.

Fellow cybersecurity student RJ Ruppe also delivered an outstanding performance at the 8th Annual UNCW Cybersecurity Conference. Competing individually against teams representing institutions including East Carolina University, Purdue University, and the University of North Carolina Wilmington, Ruppe captured first place in the Red Team Capture the Flag competition, which focused on offensive security strategies, and second place in the Blue Team competition, which emphasized defensive cybersecurity skills.

CCC students continued their success at the ECU/North Carolina National Guard Cyber Security Response Force Project Showcase. Adams earned third place among 10 project submissions for his initiative designed to help senior citizens better understand cybersecurity risks and stay safe online. Corey Hickman also presented a project focused on supporting students who participate in cybersecurity competitions.

A team of CCC cybersecurity students also earned third place overall in the Hack The Box Capture the Flag competition and finished second among participating colleges. The team demonstrated strong technical expertise, teamwork, and critical-thinking skills while competing against both collegiate teams and cybersecurity professionals. Team members included Adams, Dalton Green, Alex Algarin, Hickman, and Ruppe.

Adding to the program’s momentum, Ruppe achieved a top-two-percent national finish in the National Cyber League Individual Game. Competing against 2,875 participants nationwide, he placed 57th overall and excelled in challenges involving digital forensics, penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and incident response.

Congratulations to these students! Their achievements at these competitions reinforce the strength of CCC’s cybersecurity program in preparing students for successful careers.