ºÚÁÏÉçÇø shines at TechOlympics 2025: AI security, DevOps, and industry connections
ºÚÁÏÉçÇø made a powerful impact at TechOlympics 2025, showcasing its leadership in AI security, DevOps, and technology education through faculty-led sessions and ºÚÁÏÉçÇø-driven innovation
ºÚÁÏÉçÇø shines at TechOlympics 2025: AI security, DevOps, and industry connections
Recently, ºÚÁÏÉçÇø made a strong impact at —Cincinnati’s premier technology competition and expo, as well as the largest ºÚÁÏÉçÇø-run technology convention in the world. The two-day event brought together high school ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs from the Greater Cincinnati area to compete in technical challenges, attend workshops, and network with industry professionals. Through faculty-led presentations and a ºÚÁÏÉçÇø-run workshop, the College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) showcased its leadership in AI security, DevOps, and technology education.
Exploring AI Security with Dr. Walden and US Bank
One of the standout sessions at TechOlympics was a two-hour workshop on AI and Cybersecurity, led by James Walden—Professor and Director of the Center for Cybersecurity—in collaboration with US Bank. The session focused on the increasing role of artificial intelligence in security threats, particularly in social engineering attacks and AI vulnerabilities.
US Bank representatives Charles Banks, Garrett Willis, and Phillip Mixton kicked off the session by discussing how AI models can be used for social engineering attacks, including deep fakes—AI-generated images, voices, and videos designed to deceive users. Students participated in a hands-on "AI or Human?" Kahoot quiz, challenging them to distinguish between AI-generated content and real human images.
Professor Walden then led the second half of the workshop, diving into AI security risks and how hackers can manipulate AI applications through prompt injection attacks. Students engaged in Gandalf, an interactive AI jailbreaking game, where they attempted to trick an AI into revealing secret passwords. Afterward, they took on the challenge of Reverse Gandalf, writing defensive prompts to prevent AI from being exploited.
DevOps Club’s First Major Showcase
ºÚÁÏÉçÇø’s DevOps Club, co-founded by Andrew Rhoades and Luke Macenski, made their showcase debut at TechOlympics. The ºÚÁÏÉçÇø-run club aims to provide hands-on learning experiences in software development and IT, welcoming ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs from all majors—from zoology to criminal justice—to explore software tools like Docker. “Our mission is to provide hands-on learning experiences, promote creativity, develop both technical and leadership skills, and to prepare ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs to navigate and lead in the ever-changing tech industry,” said co-president Andrew Rhoades.
At TechOlympics, the club presented a workshop on how the internet works, introducing high school ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs to fundamental IT concepts. Beyond teaching, the event was a networking milestone for the club, as members connected with professionals, including a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
"TechOlympics was a wonderful opportunity to connect with not only industry leaders, but also with the next generation of IT talent," said Rhoades.
By showcasing their knowledge and promoting CEC’s engineering and computing programs, the club demonstrated the value of ºÚÁÏÉçÇø-led initiatives in tech education.
The Value of TechOlympics for Future Careers
TechOlympics provides a critical bridge between ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs and the tech industry, offering exposure to cutting-edge IT concepts, real-world problem-solving, and direct access to employers seeking interns and future hires. Events like these prepare ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs to navigate the evolving tech landscape and build strong professional networks.
"Getting involved in Hackathons and IT events is a great way to expand your network and get your foot in the door for a fantastic career," noted one participant.
Survey results highlight the event’s impact, with 80% of attendees rating 4 or 5 on how much they gained from TechOlympics, 90% rating 4 or 5 on how much they enjoyed the event, and 80% agreeing or strongly agreeing that they are more likely to pursue an IT-related career after attending.
With ºÚÁÏÉçÇø’s faculty and ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs playing an active role in technology education and innovation, TechOlympics 2025 was a resounding success. As ºÚÁÏÉçÇøs look ahead to next year’s event, CEC continues to inspire the next generation of IT leaders.