GeekTalent: How GeekWeek works with students

GeekWeek is now wrapped up, as hundreds of cyber security experts worked together on a variety of complex problems facing the cyber security industry.

But another part of GeekWeek that is just as important is the GeekTalent program, which draws dozens of students from across the country to work alongside seasoned cyber security professionals.

The GeekTalent program began two years ago, and now attracts more than 20 students per year. The 2019 edition hosted 28 students.

Each year, as part of the Cyber Centre’s mandate to help develop Canada’s cyber security talent, GeekWeek accepts applications from students with any degree of skill in areas such as programming, computer networks and/or data analysis and manipulation. The selected students are invited to travel to Ottawa to join GeekWeek teams and tackle critical problems.

Students who participate in GeekWeek benefit in many ways. For starters, there is access to cutting-edge cyber security tools, as well as opportunities to network with industry veterans. Additionally, there is the potential to enrich student portfolios for future job opportunities.

The GeekTalent program’s participation in GeekWeek is only one aspect of how the Cyber Centre works with students. The Cyber Centre, and CSE at large, recognizes that students are the next generation of cyber experts. In fact, many of our full-time employees began their careers in our student employee program – including Scott Jones, the Head of the Cyber Centre.

If you’re a current student, follow the Cyber Centre’s social media channels for information on how to become involved in future editions of GeekWeek. Meanwhile, keep an eye out for upcoming CSE recruitment opportunities, including:

Additional resources

To learn more about GeekWeek, current opportunities for students and CSE’s overall student program, please visit the following links:

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