By: Cassidy Delamarter, University Communications and Marketing
The University of South Florida is leading the way in cybersecurity education as the largest university to integrate an industry-leading tool into its classrooms and curriculum. Known as Hack The Box, the cutting-edge platform equips cybersecurity students with hands-on experience in navigating real-world cybersecurity threats, preparing them for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.
"We are delighted to support this engagement with Hack The Box, which provides a world-class platform to teach and train USF students as the next generation of elite cyber warriors,” said retired Gen. Frank McKenzie, executive director of the USF Global and National Security Institute and executive director of Cyber Florida at USF.
Hack The Box features continuously updated modules that expose students to a wide range of cybersecurity threats to sharpen their offensive and defensive security expertise, ultimately enhancing their cyber-attack readiness. The rapidly evolving fields of cybersecurity will play a significant role in the formation of a new college at USF, which will also focus on artificial intelligence and computing – positioning the Tampa Bay region and state of Florida as a national leader for the technology and defense industries.
USF’s dedication to advancing its cybersecurity program led to the formation of the university’s competitive team, CyberHerd, which is funded by Cyber Florida. Established in 2023, CyberHerd is comprised of 19 students and has already made significant strides in regional and national competitions.
“By challenging students with real-world scenarios, USF is providing invaluable hands-on experience that directly translates to the workplace,” said CyberHerd coach Marbin Pazos Revilla, assistant professor of instruction.
Jack “John” Trigg and Waseem Albaba
Most recently, CyberHerd captain Waseem Albaba won first place in a Department of Defense national cyber competition. Albaba and member Jack “John” Trigg also earned an impressive second place in the Adversarial Capture The Flag event at DEF CON 32 — one of the most prestigious cybersecurity conferences in the world. Competing against 78 teams, including seasoned professionals, USF students showcased their exceptional skills and determination.
The success of CyberHerd and the integration of Hack The Box, which was first implemented at USF in 2022, is already evident in the career trajectories of its graduates. Brandon Gonzalez, who graduated in May, started his career in the public sector, attributing his preparedness to the rigorous training he received at USF.
“My experiences at USF played a crucial role in shaping my knowledge and understanding. These experiences made my transition into my current role seamless,” Gonzalez said. “For those wanting to learn, I highly recommend using resources like Hack The Box to deepen your understanding of cyber defense and attack. Find a mentor, join a competitive team and actively apply the skills you learn. Doing so will accelerate your growth and help you gain practical experience in the field.”
Pazos Revilla and Sriram Chellappan, professor and undergraduate program coordinator for cybersecurity in the College of Engineering and the faculty advisor of CyberHerd, hope to make Hack The Box a standard tool available to all cybersecurity students in the College of Engineering soon.
“USF is not only preparing students for success, but also setting a new standard for cybersecurity programs nationwide,” Chellappan said.
For students interested in joining CyberHerd, you can learn more on how to apply here.