Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- In-person summit introducing Michigan high school students to cybersecurity careers and practical skills
- Hands-on workshops covering incident response, threat detection, and cyber breach simulations
- Sessions addressing AI-driven threats, social engineering, deepfakes, and password security
- Engagement with public and private sector cybersecurity professionals, including Michigan State Police Cyber Command Center
- Designed for students in grades 9 through 12, educators, and career counselors
About the Event
The Michigan High School Cyber Summit 2026 brings together high school students from across the state for a day of cybersecurity education and career exploration. Held at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi, Michigan, the summit combines keynote presentations with interactive workshops and real-world simulations designed to give students practical experience with cyber defense concepts.
The program features direct engagement with cybersecurity professionals from both government and industry. The Michigan State Police Cyber Command Center and Northern Michigan University’s UP Cybersecurity Institute are among the participating organizations, alongside corporate sponsors Deloitte, Trace3, Accenture, and Morgan Stanley Wealth Management.
Threat Landscape and Technical Topics
Sessions cover the current cybersecurity risk landscape with particular attention to how artificial intelligence, including large language models, is changing both attack methods and defensive capabilities. Students learn about social engineering tactics, AI-generated scams, and deepfake technology as emerging threat vectors. Password security fundamentals and best practices provide foundational knowledge applicable to personal and professional contexts.
The hands-on components include incident response exercises, threat detection activities, and interactive breach simulations. These practical elements allow students to apply concepts in controlled scenarios that mirror real-world cybersecurity challenges.
Workforce Development Focus
The summit addresses the cybersecurity workforce pipeline by introducing students to career pathways and the skills required for various roles in the field. Career exploration sessions outline the range of positions available in cybersecurity, from technical roles in threat analysis and incident response to policy and governance positions. The event aims to increase awareness of cybersecurity as a career option among young people who may not have considered the field, with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the profession.
Who Should Attend
The summit targets high school students in grades 9 through 12 with an interest in technology, computer science, or cybersecurity. Educators, school administrators, STEM coordinators, IT instructors, and career counselors will also find value in understanding the cybersecurity career landscape and educational resources available to their students. Representatives from educational institutions and government agencies involved in workforce development are among the expected attendees.