Airpower School Students Achieve Success in International Cyber Competition

A team of Air Command and Staff College students made headlines by winning the prestigious 2024 International Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge in Paris, France. The competition, held at the University of Paris, saw the ACSC team outshine 15 other teams from various countries, including France, the United Kingdom, Kazakhstan, and the United States.

The four-person team, consisting of Maj. James Beach, Maj. Anthony Caltabiano, Maj. Marco Catanese, and LCDR Gregory “GQ” Quillen, stood out due to their diverse backgrounds and joint service experience. Their unique perspectives and expertise in cyberspace, space acquisition, data science, and piloting played a crucial role in their success.

Dr. Cj Horn, the team coach and ACSC faculty member, emphasized the importance of developing leaders who can analyze complex environments and demonstrate creative thinking in operational problem-solving. The team’s victory in the competition highlighted their ability to assess crises effectively and recommend strategic courses of action.

The Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge is a renowned competition that tests students’ understanding of policy and strategy challenges in managing cyber crises. Before arriving in Paris, all teams received a simulated intelligence report outlining a cyber incident affecting France and French Guyana. The ACSC team excelled in analyzing the evolving scenario and providing recommendations to mitigate the crisis.

The team’s success in Paris and other competitions throughout the year showcased the effectiveness of the Cyberspace Specialization program at ACSC. As they gear up for the 2024 Trust & Safety Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge at Fordham University, the students are poised to bring further acclaim to their institution before graduation.