Chapter Supports Youth Cyber Competition

The chapter was proud to once again support the 9th Annual San Antonio Mayor's Cyber Cup in which 317 teams competed. The large number of competitors produced the highest quality and quantity of teams in the U.S. Guest speaker Maj. Gen. Robert Skinner, USAF, commander, 24th Air Force and commander, Air Forces Cyber and Commander, Joint Force Headquarters-Cyber, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, explained there's a significant difference between other cities and what San Antonio brings to the fight. "If we would've come in the military today with the capability we had from back when I came in, we would be at the low end of the totem pole. These individuals are much brighter today." San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg added that San Antonio is leading the world and preparing for the jobs of the future by building on the relationships between government, industry and academia. "The CyberTexas Foundation's positive momentum helps our cybersecurity ecosystem as we invest and grow in the future." Gen. Skinner added that we are bringing up the next generation of cyber professionals. The Best High School Rookie Team, John Marshall Harlan High School, received $6,000 in scholarships from the chapter. "Over the last 10 years, the chapter has given $1 million in STEM dollars," said Chapter President Rick Lipsey. The Best All Female Team, Alamo Heights Army JROTC, received iPads from sponsor Accenture as well as $6,000 in scholarships from the chapter. "Females represent 25 percent in STEM," stated Karen Rolirad, chapter vice president of scholarships and educational grants. "We can do better!" She has dedicated 2019 to furthering Women in STEM initiatives. Congratulations to all of the teams, parents, coaches and mentors.

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