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Okaloosa Technical College students earn national cybersecurity recognition

Nine OTC students ranked No. 45 nationally after competing against more than 8,500 students from 490 colleges and universities across the country.

Jared Williams

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Nine students from Okaloosa Technical College placed in the top 50 nationally during the National Cyber League Fall 2025 Competition Season, outperforming thousands of competitors from colleges and universities across the country.

The OTC team earned a No. 45 national ranking in the NCL Cyber Power Rankings after competing against more than 8,520 students from 490 institutions. The students recognized for their performance are Dylan Waters, Stephen Miner, Jordan Wenner-Foy, Grafton Lang, Ren Moore, Devin Barron, Steven Williamson, Dade Frigon and David Curd.

Daniel Sligar, their instructor, led the team through the competition.

“This achievement reflects the dedication of our students and the exceptional instruction they receive at Okaloosa Technical College,” OTC Director Jon Williams said. “Competing at a national level against colleges and universities across the country and earning this recognition is a testament to their commitment, teamwork, and readiness for careers in cybersecurity. We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful for Mr. Sligar’s leadership and mentorship.”

Powered by Cyber Skyline, the National Cyber League is a cybersecurity competition designed to mirror tasks performed daily by industry professionals. Through individual and team-based challenges, students reinforce classroom learning, gain workforce-ready skills and earn detailed skills reports they can share with prospective employers.

Superintendent Marcus Chambers said the students’ success demonstrates the value of career and technical education.

“Their success in the National Cyber League demonstrates the power of career and technical education to prepare students for high-demand, high-skill careers,” Chamber said. “We are incredibly proud of their hard work and the leadership provided by Mr. Sligar.”

Dr. David Zeichick, commissioner of the National Cyber League, commended the OTC team for their collaborative efforts and commitment to excellence, noting their performance reflects both individual skill and a strong desire to grow as cybersecurity professionals.

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