Capture the Flag Competition to Bolster Ohio’s Cybersecurity Workforce

The Ohio Cyber Range Institute (OCRI) will host its annual Capture the Flag (CTF) competition, ‘Capture Ohio ’26,’ on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the University of Cincinnati and at regional locations across the state. The event aims to provide students with hands-on cybersecurity experience and strengthen Ohio’s cybersecurity workforce.

Hands-on Cybersecurity Training for Students

Students from the University of Dayton, Reading High School, Great Oaks Career Campuses, and Ohio University will participate at the University of Cincinnati’s Clifton Court Hall, Room 1210 – Technology Enhanced Active Learning Classroom. Additional students from Cuyahoga Community College, Bowling Green State University, Miami University, The University of Findlay and Tiffin University will join virtually. Students can also participate at one of OCRI’s Regional Programming Center locations, including Cedarville University, Cleveland State University, Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland State/Case Western IoT Collaborative), Kent State University, Lorain County Community College, The Ohio State University, Shawnee State University, Stark State College, and The University of Akron.

The competition, running from 11 a.m. To 4 p.m., will challenge students to apply offensive and defensive cybersecurity techniques using the OCRI’s Ohio Cyber Range platform. Challenges will cover areas such as digital forensics, encryption and password cracking, network traffic analysis, vulnerability identification, and reverse engineering.

Strengthening Ohio’s Cybersecurity Ecosystem

“Through the Ohio Cyber Range Institute, we’re able to connect every region of the state and support initiatives like our statewide Capture The Flag competition — helping strengthen and expand Ohio’s cybersecurity workforce,” said Bekah Michael, Executive Staff Director of OCRI .

OCRI’s model of cyber education and workforce development unites higher education, K–12 schools, industry leaders, and government partners to ensure equitable access to cyber training and clear pathways into cybersecurity careers.

Event Details

• Title: Capture Ohio ‘26: OCRI Statewide Capture The Flag (CTF)
• Date & Time: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, April 11, 2026
• UC Location: Clifton Court Hall, Room 1210 – Technology Enhanced Active Learning Classroom
• Registration: Sign up
• Registration Deadline: March 27, 2026
• Event Hashtag: #ocriCaptureOhio26
• Contact: ocri@ucmail.uc.edu

Prizes and certificates will be awarded for standout performance, and lunch and snacks will be provided at hosting locations. The event promotes teamwork, problem-solving, and hands-on experience in ethical hacking through real-world cybersecurity challenges.