Forged for the next generation of cyber defenders.
Learn by doing. Compete to rise. Defend what matters.
GHOSTOPS is a hands-on cybersecurity training program built for high school students ready to think like defenders. Work through real attack scenarios, solve CTF challenges, and build the skills that matter in the field — guided by AI and mentored by active industry professionals from NAVSEA and NAVWAR.
Equip the next generation of defenders with the skills, mindset, and experience to protect critical systems. Through hands-on labs, live CTF competitions, and AI-assisted learning, GHOSTOPS turns curious students into capable security professionals.
A Capture the Flag competition is a cybersecurity challenge where participants race to solve puzzles, analyze code, exploit vulnerabilities, and decrypt hidden messages. Each challenge reveals a secret "flag" that proves you've mastered the skill — hands-on learning that mirrors real-world security scenarios in a structured, adversarial environment.
GHOSTOPS is built for FirstHand students and authorized CyberSprint cohorts. No prior experience required — the program starts from zero and builds through 10 weeks of structured missions, labs, and competitions designed to take you from beginner to competitive defender.
By the end of the program, you'll have real, demonstrable skills — not just a certificate.