Sierra Cyber Summit Offers Hands-On Pathway into Cybersecurity, Oct. 24–25
Cerro Coso Community College, in partnership with the Griffiss Institute and TechGrid, will host the Sierra Cyber Summit on Friday-Saturday, October 24–25, 2025, at the new TechGrid facility in Ridgecrest. The two-day event invites community members, high school students (and older), to discover interests and build practical skills in cybersecurity through career exploration workshops, internship and scholarship opportunities, and a Capture-the-Flag (CTF) hackathon—no prior experience required.
“This summit is an exceptional opportunity for students and career-seekers to get meaningful exposure to an ever-evolving cyber landscape,” said Nicole Griffin, Dean of Career Technical Education at Cerro Coso Community College. “Participants will learn by doing—gaining confidence, networking with professionals, and seeing clear next steps into degrees, certifications, internships, and jobs.”
Representatives from partner organizations echoed the hands-on focus. A Griffiss Institute spokesperson noted, “Building the next generation of cyber talent requires real-world problem solving. The CTF and workshops give participants exactly that—guided challenges, mentorship, and the chance to see themselves in this field.”
The TechGrid partnership added, “We are thrilled to open the innovation space to learners across the region. This is what TechGrid was built for—connecting people, technology, and opportunity under one roof.”
Desert Valleys Federal Credit Union, a sponsor of the event, emphasized the event’s broader impact as well. “In keeping with our mission to provide empowering resources to the community, Desert Valleys is excited to be a part of the Sierra Cyber Summit. We look forward to seeing how this event grows and impacts young minds!” said Alex Diaz, Director of Marketing, Desert Valleys Federal Credit Union.
If you or your organization is interested in sponsoring this event, please contact Tim Randolph at timothy.randolph@cerrocoso.edu or (760) 384-6136.
Event Highlights
- When & Where: October 24–25, 2025 • TechGrid, Ridgecrest
- Fri, Oct. 24, 4:00–7:00 PM: Career workshops & CTF kickoff (dinner provided)
- Sat, Oct. 25, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM: CTF competition & awards (lunch provided)
- Cost/Experience: No cost to attend; no experience necessary.
- Registration: Apply by October 15
Cybersecurity continues to expand across every industry, creating demand for analysts, engineers, and risk-minded professionals. The Sierra Cyber Summit gives participants practical exposure, mentorship, and portfolio-ready experience—a fast track to understanding if cyber is a fit and how to pursue it.
About Griffiss Institute
Griffiss Institute is a nonprofit talent and technology accelerator supporting national
security innovation and workforce development through education, research, and partnerships.
Learn more about Griffiss Institute.
About TechGrid
TechGrid is a community innovation hub in Ridgecrest, providing collaborative space,
technology access, and programs that connect learners and employers across the region.
Learn more about TechGrid.
