School: Old Scona Academic
City: Edmonton
Province: Alberta
About the Olympians A:
Coach Dee Elder:
This team works as an amazing collaborative group. They are humble about the level of knowledge that they have and are passionate about learning as much as they can. They support one another in and out of competition time. With students from all three grade levels on the team there is a tremendous amount of mentorship going on. The team is anchored by Mark Holmstrom, whose leadership and Cisco knowledge has supported the team through some challenging times this year.
Our school became involved in the CyberTitan program a couple of years ago based on information from a student who had been involved while in the United States. Our computer teacher, Irfan Qureshi, entered a team and as a result expanded the Cybersecurity program at our school. Tragically, Irf passed away earlier this year and I stepped in as the coach supporting the students as they continue to honor the work that Irf started. For me as an educator, principal, and technology advocate, I am thrilled to see how the CyberTitan program challengers students and provides ‘real life learning’ for students in the area of technology.
The ability to practically apply learning in practical situations really brings the learning to life for students. The program resulted in a change in course offerings at our school and an increase of students enrolling in the program.
Steven, 17
Why did you join the team?
I joined the team because I thought it would be interesting to learn more about cyber security and compete on an international level.
What career would you like to pursue in the future?
I would like to pursue a career in engineering or computer science.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
My favourite thing to do in my free time is coding.
What is your Favorite food or snack?
Frozen blueberries
Name 3 things you would bring with you to a deserted island.
Three other people.
James, 16
Why did you join the team?
I was on the team last year, and it was up to myself and the other returning member to help lead the team this year.
What career would you like to pursue in the future?
I’m not sure yet.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
Read random things, fiddle with computers, or play games.
What is your Favorite food or snack?
Probably papusas.
Name 3 things you would bring with you to a deserted island.
Stuffed animals, CD player, my CD collection
Anything else you would like to add?
CyberTitan has really brought motivation to the members of our other teams, so I’m glad for that.
Mark, 17
Why did you join the team?
I have always enjoyed messing around with computers, and cyber security seemed like a cool topic. Knowing a lot about networking got me into the team last year as the Cisco guy and it’s been a fun ride ever since.
What career would you like to pursue in the future?
Network Ninja, Software Samurai, or Digital Demon. Any career where I can get away with one of those titles is a career for me.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
Anyone whose answer doesn’t include video games is lying.
What is your Favorite food or snack?
Most people who know me would say that I like fruit a lot, and they would be right. Apples in particular are fit for any meal.
Name 3 things you would bring with you to a deserted island.
Electronics are probably out of the question, so my answer is a person who knows what 2 things to bring with you to a deserted island.
Anything else you would like to add?
Good to luck to everyone out there, have fun in the coming weeks!
Joshua, 15
Why did you join the team?
I joined the team because I have a strong passion for computer technology and this passion has intensified over each passing year. I wanted this unique and challenging opportunity to share my knowledge, skill, and experience and do my part in contributing toward the mission/goals of the team, all that the CyberPatriot program stands for, and to proudly represent Old Scona Academic High School.
What career would you like to pursue in the future?
I would like to pursue a career as either a software engineer or an IT professional. I have a special interest in software, networking, communications, and security.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
In my free time, I like to research, program/code, problem solve, experiment, and learn as much as I can about the construction and operation of computer systems and the applications of hardware and software technologies.
What is your Favorite food or snack?
My favourite foods are those that are home cooked, especially dumplings with a little fried bacon. I really like veggies for a snack, especially cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
Name 3 things you would bring with you to a deserted island.
I would bring a satellite phone, a survival book, and a knife on the island.
Anything else you would like to add?
I would like to add that I love the fact that the world of computers gives me the freedom to think creatively as well as find solutions on my own terms. My favourite motto is ‘Do what you love and love what you do!’
Ysabelle, 17
Why did you join the team?
I joined because I thought it would be fun and I find security and vulnerabilities really interesting. As well, I thought it would be a good experience to have under my belt.
What career would you like to pursue in the future?
I don’t have an exact career yet, but I know I would like to pursue a job in the combined field of artificial intelligence and security. Either using AI as security or the security of AI itself. Hopefully to help me pursue this career, I want to attain the GSEC certification by the end of my first year in university.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
I either longboard, or play video games.
What is your Favorite food or snack?
My favourite snack is this Filipino snack called Stik-O, ube flavoured.
Name 3 things you would bring with you to a deserted island.
I would bring a motor boat, food, and water. I’d want to get out of there as soon as I could.
