KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- In the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, the role of instructors shaping proficient Airmen is more crucial than ever.
At the 333rd Training Squadron, cyber warfare operators who are stepping into an educator visit the Black Hat and DEFCON convention in Las Vegas to learn about recent developments in the cybersecurity field.
The convention offered a comprehensive array of information, from in-depth discussions on the characteristics of threat actors, to the intricacies of national policy writing. Additionally, briefers organized practical demonstrations where participants could engage in practice scenarios using newly developed tools.
“Upon arriving, everyone’s a bit overwhelmed as there are 20,000 attendees and a lot of information being thrown out at you, but after the first day and getting your schedule down, it’s very enjoyable,” said Capt. Viet Tran, 333rd Training Squadron cyber effects operations instructor. “I often hear about how the instructors had a great time and enjoyed listening to the professionals talking about their own experiences.”
By gaining insight into the Airmen’s challenges in the cyber field, instructors can effectively adapt technical training using the knowledge and tools acquired at the convention.
“Our participation in this training helps improve our critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while also learning more about the enemy tactics,” said Tech. Sgt. Andrey Antonyuk, 333rd Training Squadron cyber warfare operations instructor supervisor. “Weaving that training into what we do amplifies our abilities as instructors, especially when there's an adversarial conflict that takes place. We build a culture of learning that continually evolves to keep pace with the changing landscape, thus enabling our Airmen and Guardians to adapt, learn, grow and be the next generation that solves the complex challenges our adversaries would throw at us.”
Effective information flow is critical for mission success across the Air Force. It requires constant surveillance of assets and systems to ensure they’re functioning properly if targeted in a cyber-attack. By vigilantly tracking and mitigating threats, Cyber Airmen maintain communication lines that support global air operations, enabling real-time coordination and decision-making in the context of Great Power Competition.
“I'm proud of our Airmen and Guardians for stepping up and raising their hand to defend this nation,” said Antonyuk. “I'm also excited to see the new generation of cyber operators graduating from the 333rd TRS and to the team, you're awesome and keep up the great work. Our job is never done!”