2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Student-led cybersecurity organizations play a vital role in enhancing experiential learning, teamwork, and professional development within computing education. This paper presents the structure, activities, and educational impact of Michigan Technological University’s RedTeam, a student organization dedicated to advancing cybersecurity skills through hands-on engagement and peer learning. The RedTeam meets weekly throughout the academic year to conduct training sessions, technical workshops, and collaborative lab exercises covering topics such as penetration testing, network defense, digital forensics, and ethical hacking. Members also participate in regional and national cybersecurity competitions, including the National Cyber League (NCL), which provide authentic contexts for applying technical knowledge under pressure and fostering leadership and collaboration.

Beyond technical skill development, RedTeam serves as a professional community that connects students with industry experts and academic mentors through conferences, guest lectures, and outreach events. The organization collaborates closely with Michigan Tech’s Cybersecurity program and the College of Computing to promote a culture of cybersecurity excellence and workforce readiness. Survey and participation data indicate that RedTeam involvement significantly improves students’ confidence, practical skills, and motivation to pursue cybersecurity careers. This paper shares insights into the program’s structure, success factors, and lessons learned, offering a replicable model for integrating student organizations into cybersecurity education and community engagement.