NCR Cyber Academy
The North Central Region Cyber Academy (NCR CA) is a collection of cyber security career exploration and training courses. The goal is to increase cyber security knowledge and awareness and to forge a lifelong passion for cyber security. During this activity, cadets receive briefings from various Cyber Operations personnel as well as tours of research facilities at Dakota State University (DSU). DSU is one of only ten universities in the nation to carry all three of the Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designations sponsored by the National Security Agency (NSA).
They also receive advanced training in cyber security concepts to help hone their skills for CyberPatriot and other cyber defense competitions. Seniors will receive training on CyberPatriot coaching, fundraising and other tasks that are needed to create a stellar Cyber team!
Dates: July 6-12, 2025
Location: Dakota State University, 820 Washington Ave N, Madison, SD 57042
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Participants:
- Age 13 by activity start date
- United States citizen
- Completed Encampment and recorded in eServices by activity start date
- Possessing the Wright Brothers Award (C/SSgt) is highly encouraged.
- Complete any preparatory assignments after initial selection
- We are working on possibly needing Cadet Staff to work as tutors and Cyber mentors. Experience in the cyber field will be required. More info on that is being developed. If you want to know more, contact Maj Rezac.
Seniors/Staff:
- Although this is a technical activity, cyber knowledge is not a requirement for all senior staff. Cyber instructors or professionals also are welcome to apply. Be prepared for an interview to discuss qualifications and to determine appropriate slotting.
- A technician rating in Cadet Programs is desired.
- Positions available: Cyber Instructor, Medical Officer, Public Affairs Officer, Admin Officer, Transportation Officer
- Medical, Public Affairs, Admin and Transportation Officers do not require any technical background but should at least have a CAP driver’s license and a technician rating or higher in their respective specialty track.
How to Apply:
Apply in Registration Zone using the links below. Any required documents for your application are listed below and should be uploaded to the Registration Zone application for this activity.
Apply for Cyber Academy Senior Staff here (Senior Members only) (This will be added as soon as this link is ready)
All personnel must apply via Registration Zone in eServices, or they will not receive credit for the activity in their records. For staff applicants, you will be contacted to let you know whether or not you have not been selected.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT:
Unfortunately, we will not qualify for CadetInvest funds this year. The NCR CA staff have worked to keep the enrollment fee as low as possible. Unfortunately lodging, food, conference room and training material costs are out of our control.
We suggest you coordinate with your squadron, group, wing etc. leadership as much as you can if you need assistance. Different echelons of command sometimes have access to funds to help with fees.
FAQ’s:
-
Is there a packing list?
Yes. It can be found in the Documents list above on this page.
-
Will vehicle fuel be covered to and from the Cyber Academy?
No. Participants/units are responsible for travel to and from the Cyber Academy.
-
Why are senior members being charged?
Unfortunately, there are fixed costs (food, lodging, etc.) that must be covered.
-
Will I receive NCSA credit?
We are not yet credited as an NCSA/CSA. Once the NCR CA is credited by NHQ (Hopefully in the fall of 2026) you should be authorized to wear the NCSA ribbon.
-
Will I need to bring a laptop?
Yes. This is absolutely necessary. If you don’t have one of your own, contact your unit IT Officer for assistance. If they can’t provide you with one, contact Maj Rezac ASAP.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- Complete 80% of the activity requirements
- Actively participate in 80% of the contact hours and not dismissed early for behavior issues
- Activity Director determines course objectives met
TRAVEL
- Activity Staff will provide transportation to and from Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD). Contact Maj Rezac at rrezac@ncr.cap.gov to coordinate.
- Required Staff Training will be on campus or via TEAMS.
