The CyberForce® Program offers additional ways for college students to explore cybersecurity careers. From the virtual Conquer the Hill® competitions for solo participants to podcasts and newsletters, the program helps students build skills and connect with industry leaders.
Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response
November 24, 2025
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The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER) and DOE’s Argonne National Laboratory (Argonne) announced the winners of the 11th CyberForce Competition® held on Nov. 15, in Tinley Park, Illinois. At the end of the competition, Tinley Park MHC from the University of Central Florida defeated 92 teams from 73 universities to claim first place.
- First Place - University of Central Florida – Tinley Park MHC
- Second Place – University of Texas at San Antonio – The Roadrunners
- Third Place – Tennessee Tech University - CyberEagles
This year’s participants faced a simulated cyberattack on an offshore oil rig’s control system. Their mission: contain the threat, prevent disruptions, and ensure the safety of both the crew and equipment while keeping the rig operational. This year’s winners were able to successfully conduct an investigation into the compromise scenario and develop next steps for recovery and system restoration.
"I want to personally congratulate team Tinley Park MHC from the University of Central Florida on their accomplishment,” said Alex Fitzsimmons, Acting Under Secretary of Energy and CESER Director. “Offshore oil rigs play a critical role in the global energy landscape. This year's scenario helped prepare the next generation of cyber defenders to secure and strengthen our strategic fuel reserves. By investing in tomorrow's experts, we're cultivating the talent that will safeguard our energy future and fortify our nation's infrastructure.”
The CyberForce Competition® offers more than just a challenge, it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect. Students gain hands-on experience with real-world technology, access to specialized training, and network with top industry professionals.
"Participants leave the CyberForce Competition® with a growth in knowledge, skills, and interest in both cybersecurity and the energy sector," said Amanda Theel, national laboratory lead of the CyberForce Program and group leader of Workforce Development in Argonne’s Strategic Security Sciences division. “To be able to witness the lightbulb moment when the participants connect cyber and energy is something worth remembering.”
The CyberForce® Program offers additional ways for college students to explore cybersecurity careers. From the virtual Conquer the Hill® competitions for solo participants to podcasts and newsletters, the program helps students build skills and connect with industry leaders. Learn more about these opportunities by visiting the CyberForce webpage.
The CyberForce Competition® is primarily funded by DOE’s CESER Office with support from DOE’s Office of Electricity and the National Nuclear Security Administration. Argonne National Laboratory is the lead national laboratory hosting the CyberForce Program. Other laboratories that support the program are DOE’s Idaho National Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories. Additional support is provided by industry and government sponsors, including Berkshire Hathaway Energy, and Inductive Automation.
Congratulations to all the competitors for demonstrating their potential as future leaders in cybersecurity.