AC’s Innovation Outpost to Host Cyber Challenge 2.0 Event Nov. 20

Amarillo College’s Innovation Outpost will host an area-wide Cyber Challenge 2.0 competition on Thursday, Nov. 20 powered by EC-Council’s Cyber Range, and open to AC students, faculty, staff, friends, and family. 

The full-day cyber challenge immerses participants in real-world security scenarios, offering hands-on experience with industry tools, timed scoring, and collaborative problem-solving. Designed for all skill levels, the event welcomes beginners exploring cybersecurity for the first time as well as advanced competitors ready to test their expertise.

Participants will compete in team-based cyber capture the flag challenges in the morning, followed by individual competitions in the afternoon across three categories: Beginner, Intermediate, and Professional.

Scholarship prizes will be awarded by EC-Council, including a choice of one of eight Essential Series certifications for the winning team members: Ethical Hacker Essentials, Network Defender Essentials, Digital Forensics Essentials, Cloud Security Essentials, IoT Security Essentials, DevSecOps Essentials, SOC Essentials, or Threat Intelligence Essentials. EC-Council will also award scholarship prizes to first-place finishers in each individual category.

“The Cyber Challenge gives participants a chance to experience what real-world cybersecurity looks like — fast-paced, collaborative, and constantly evolving,” said Argenis Cunha, Amarillo College cybersecurity learning and technology specialist. “Events like this inspire new interest in the field and help students see that cybersecurity isn’t just about coding — it’s about problem-solving, teamwork, and protecting our digital future.”

Chris George, AC computer information systems instructor, said events like this highlight the College’s commitment to applied learning and industry alignment. 

“We want students and community members to gain skills that translate directly to the workplace,” George said. “This challenge brings people together, builds confidence, and shows participants that they can succeed in cybersecurity no matter where they’re starting from.”

The event emphasizes practical learning, exposure to essential security tools, and recognition for top performers. All AC students—regardless of major—along with faculty, staff, and interested family or friends are encouraged to participate.

Event Schedule – Thursday, Nov. 20

• 8:30–9 a.m. — Check-in and setup
• 9–11:30 a.m. — Team Capture the Flag
• 11:30 a.m.–1:15 p.m. — Lunch & cybersecurity documentary
• 1:15–3:30 p.m. — Individual Capture the Flag
• 3:30–4:30 p.m. — Awards and closing session

The event is free to attend, but registration is required. Lunch will be provided. Participants should bring their own device. The event will take place at the Innovation Outpost, located at 1220 S. Polk St., Amarillo, TX.

Students, instructors, and staff are encouraged to engage by registering, bringing classes during any session block, or volunteering as floor coaches or scorers. For more information, contact Cunha.