Sul Ross State University International hosted its fourth Cyber, AI & Forensics Bootcamp on July 28–29, welcoming area students to the Eagle Pass Campus for two days of immersive, hands-on training in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and digital forensics.
Hosted by the Department of Homeland Security and Criminal Justice and the Computer Science program under the Department of Natural and Behavioral Sciences, the bootcamp introduced students from surrounding communities to emerging technologies and the growing field of cybersecurity defense through engaging, real-world learning experiences.
Fifteen students participated in the camp. On July 28, students took part in interactive AI cybersecurity simulations led by Dr. Mainuddin Shaik, interim chair of the Department of Natural and Behavioral Sciences, where they learned the fundamentals of cybersecurity, explored how artificial intelligence models are developed, identified common vulnerabilities and gained practical experience defending AI systems against cyber threats. On July 29, students explored the fundamentals of cybercrime, cyberlaw, cryptocurrency investigations, open-source intelligence and drone forensics in sessions led by Dr. Oguzhan Basibuyuk, chair of the Department of Homeland Security and Criminal Justice.
The curriculum featured a combination of lectures, case studies, hands-on laboratory exercises, simulations and capture-the-flag competitions designed to strengthen technical skills while exposing students to real-world cybersecurity challenges. All training sessions were held in the newly installed computer lab at the Eagle Pass Campus.
The bootcamp was supported through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Midstream Industry Cybersecurity Grant, helping expand access to advanced cybersecurity education and workforce development opportunities for students across the region.
“This bootcamp reflects Sul Ross International’s commitment to preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals through experiential learning and industry-relevant training,” said Dr. Basibuyuk,. “By combining cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and digital forensics, students gain valuable skills that are increasingly important in today’s technology-driven workforce.”
“Programs like this bring advanced training in AI and cybersecurity directly to students in our border communities,” said Dr. Shaik,. “With support from the Department of Energy grant, we are able to give students hands-on experience with the same tools and challenges professionals face, and we hope many of them will see a future for themselves in these fields, right here in the region.”
“This bootcamp is an excellent example of the innovative, hands-on learning experiences that distinguish Sul Ross and prepare students for careers in high-demand fields,” said Dr. Bernardo Cantens, executive vice president and provost. “The integration of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital forensics and experiential learning is very impressive, and it is exciting to see these opportunities being offered at the International Campus.”
Sul Ross State University International continues to expand opportunities in cybersecurity, computer science and other emerging technologies, equipping students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed in high-demand, technology-driven careers.
For more information, email mainuddin.shaik@sulross.edu.