Cyber Saturday

On January 17, 2026, the National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF) hosted an incredible Cyber Saturday at the Technology Advancement Center (TAC) in Columbia, MD. Sponsored by Booz Allen Hamilton, the event brought together over 200 students, parents, and volunteers for a full day of hands-on cyber literacy and cybersecurity learning.

We are deeply grateful to our partners at TAC for providing a space that truly supports innovation, collaboration, and student engagement. Throughout the day, students participated in interactive cyber activities, explored real-world cybersecurity challenges, and built foundational skills that are essential for today’s digital world. We were also proud to welcome @BiaSciLab from Girls Who Hack, reinforcing the importance of access and representation in cyber pathways.

The day opened with remarks from Laura Nelson, President & CEO of the NCF, followed by Dr. Calvin Nobles, Vice President and Dean of Cybersecurity at UMGC and NCF Board Member. Our keynote speaker, Mr. Siraaj Hassan, Vice President of National Cyber at Booz Allen Hamilton and NCF Board Member, inspired students by connecting cybersecurity to purpose, impact, and future careers.

Parents were intentionally included through two outstanding parent sessions led by Tina Williams Koroma and Monica Hamilton, offering guidance on digital safety and how families can support students’ cyber interests.

Another highlight was a live #CyberChats podcast taping hosted by the NCF’s Kennedy Taylor Tibbetts, featuring Steve Morrill from Loyola Blakefield, who shared insights on their strong cybersecurity program for grades 6–12. Thank you to Loyola Blakefield for also providing student volunteers who supported the event throughout the day. We also want to thank the Maryland STEM Fest and Sapphire Rise for exhibiting at the event.

Students were excited to experience the NCF’s newest innovation, the Escape Room in a Box, created in partnership with NiSUS. An elite track for high school students was available at the event. And a live Capture the Flag competition, hosted by the Virginia Cyber Range, ran throughout the entire day, giving students continuous opportunities to apply their skills in real time.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Alisha Jordan, NCF Director of Education.

Cyber Saturday continues to affirm why cyber education matters—not just for workforce development, but for informed, responsible digital citizenship. We’re grateful to everyone who made this day a success and can’t wait to see you at the next Maryland Cyber Saturday.