EAC alumni wins first in defense category at Western Regional Cyber Security Contest

Contributed Photo Courtesy Ankur Chowdhary: Eastern Arizona College alumni, David Lee, second from the left in the back, took first place in the defense category at Western Regional Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition.

By Taylor Ellett/EAC

THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College alumni, David Lee, won first place in the defense category at the Western Regional Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition held in Calif. at Coastline Community College.

The information technology major was on Arizona State University’s team that took third place overall, following Stanford University and the University of California, Irvine.

“David Lee was one of our finest cyber security students,” says James McBride, business and information technology professor at EAC, “It’s gratifying to see him compete and win against some of our nation’s finest schools. The training he received at EAC paid off.”

Lee found his love of cyber security in the ethical hacker course provided by Eastern Arizona College. He transferred to ASU and continues to pursue an education in cyber security.

“Cyberattacks are becoming more frequent, complex, and targeted, costing organizations billions of dollars each year. Cyber security is one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. and students who are interested in this field should enroll in EAC’s program.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity-related jobs are the tenth fastest growing occupation over the next decade, with a growth rate of 31 percent. The median pay for cyber security analysts in the U.S. in 2020 was $103,590.

Interested students should contact James McBride at james.mcbride@eac.edu.

Registering at EAC is easy 

Fall classes begin Aug. 22, but students can add classes through Aug. 26. Call EAC’s Records and Registration Office at (928) 428-8270 to register, or register online at www.eac.edu. To access the online, searchable class schedules, visit www.eac.edu/schedule.

About Eastern Arizona College 

Eastern Arizona College – the first community college in Arizona – has helped students claim their dreams since 1888. With campuses in Thatcher, Globe, and Payson, EAC’s qualified and caring instructors prepare students for the most in-demand careers and advanced study at universities. EAC offers more than 80 certificates and degrees, including the #1 nursing school in Arizona, a fine arts program featuring the only marching band in Arizona, and an engineering program that brings students up to speed for success at universities and top-tiered firms. Students thrive at EAC, making friendships that last a lifetime. EAC’s vibrant student experience includes on-campus housing, more than 30 clubs and organizations, active intramurals, and nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams. At EAC, most students leave with $0 debt. Let EAC provide an affordable way for you to claim your dreams. Contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272 today.