Illinois Governor Launches Cyber Security Contest

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is launching a statewide competition to identify and train Illinois residents for jobs in cyber security.

The Illinois Cyber Challenge is free and open to anyone, but the governor says it will specifically target veterans, many of whom already have training in the field.

The challenge will involve three online tests, each with a pre-test tutorial. The top scorers in the online exams will be invited to a championship competition. A special Veterans Cyber Camp also will be this summer.

The top finishers in the competition will be eligible for additional training and residencies in the cyber security field.

Quinn says there is a huge demand for trained professionals to counter cyber security threats in both the public and private sector.

ON DEMAND: Business-impacting events such as severe weather, man-made disasters, and supply chain disruption are increasing in frequency and making impacts around the globe.

In today's rapidly evolving security landscape, organizations face an ever-growing array of disruptive events, security threats and risks. Traditional reactive approaches to security intelligence often leave businesses vulnerable and ill-prepared to anticipate and mitigate emerging threats that could impact the safety of their people, facilities or operations.