Local cadets in Mt. Vernon learned about protecting cyberspace during a recent meeting of the Civil Air Patrol, Knox County Airport Cadet Flight, according to a May 16 announcement. Colonel Darren Hamilton, Commander of the Ohio Air National Guard 179th Cyberspace Wing in Mansfield, served as guest speaker and discussed the importance of cyberspace as a key domain in potential world conflicts.
Hamilton explained that the basic mission of the 179th Wing is "Cyber Enabled Air Superiority," or CEAS. He said, "we make sure the good guys get into the bad guy’s airspace." Hamilton also advised attendees to be cautious about sharing personal information on social media.
The Civil Air Patrol said that developing future cyberspace defense operators is an urgent national need. The organization provides self-study materials, classroom lessons, activities, competitions, and career exploration academies in STEM fields such as robotics and engineering. First Lieutenant John Morgan said, "We not only provide these resources to our cadets, but many of these resources, what we call STEM kits, are available free of charge to local teachers through our Aerospace Education Membership program." Morgan added that CAP assembles teams for the nationwide CyberPatriot competition where students work to find cybersecurity vulnerabilities in simulated operating systems.
Hamilton shared leadership advice with cadets based on his own experience rising from enlisted airman to commander. He said that leaders must "get to know your people" and connect with them personally. At the end of his presentation, many cadets indicated interest in pursuing opportunities related to cyberspace.
The Knox County Airport Cadet Flight meets every Monday evening at 6 PM at the Knox County Airport terminal building. The Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program is open to youth ages 12-18 and focuses on leadership, aerospace education, physical fitness, and character development. More information can be found at the organization's website.
