Ogeechee Technical College (OTC) is making headlines for its outstanding performance in the Spring 2025 National Cyber League (NCL) competition. Students from the college’s Cybersecurity program ranked among the top 2 percent nationally, a remarkable achievement for only their second semester participating in the prestigious event. This success not only reflects the students’ dedication and skill but also highlights the strength and momentum of OTC’s growing cybersecurity program.
Under the leadership of instructor Terry Hand, two student teams from OTC tackled a series of real-world cybersecurity challenges in the national tournament. Team A stood out by securing the 120th spot out of 4,779 teams, landing in the 98th percentile overall. They performed exceptionally well in core cybersecurity categories such as Network Traffic Analysis, Open Source Intelligence, and Web Application Exploitation, scoring in the 99th percentile in each. Team B also demonstrated strong competence, placing 475th overall and ranking in the 91st percentile nationwide.
Real-World Skills and Competitive Edge
The National Cyber League is a renowned platform that tests the practical abilities of students in various domains of cybersecurity, including ethical hacking, cryptography, log analysis, and password cracking. Through hands-on simulations and competitive problem-solving, students gain critical experience that extends far beyond the classroom.
Instructor Terry Hand praised his students for their outstanding performance and rapid progress in a highly competitive field. “For this to be only our second semester competing and already see these kinds of results, it’s just amazing,” Hand said. “Our students are proving they can hold their own on a national stage.”
These competitions also serve as valuable resume builders, offering students exposure to the kinds of technical problems they will face in real-world cybersecurity roles. As cyber threats continue to grow globally, professionals trained in proactive defense and threat detection are in high demand. OTC’s performance in the NCL reflects its commitment to equipping students with relevant, industry-ready skills.
A Bright Future for Ogeechee Technical College’s Cybersecurity Program
Ogeechee Technical College ‘S success in the Spring 2025 competition underscores the institution’s rise as a formidable contender in cybersecurity education. With only two semesters of NCL participation, students have already demonstrated that they can compete and excel at a national level. The college’s strategic investment in practical learning and its focus on current industry demands are evidently paying off.
This performance not only enhances the reputation of OTC’s Cybersecurity program but also positions its students for promising careers in one of today’s fastest-growing sectors. With continued support, guidance, and competitive exposure, OTC is preparing the next generation of cyber professionals capable of protecting digital landscapes across industries.
As the cybersecurity field evolves, Ogeechee Technical College is poised to remain at the forefront, fostering talent and innovation that meet the challenges of tomorrow’s digital threats.
