Building a Resilient Future
https://erau.edu/about/news-and-stories/hub-spoke/stories/building-a-resilient-future
Publish Date: 2026-05-26 17:24:00
Source Domain: erau.edu
At Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus, cybersecurity is more than a major, it’s an opportunity for leadership and excellence. For two students, Morgan Finch (’26) and Rebekah Sokoloski (’26), that opportunity has taken shape in the form of CyberAero, a student-led Capture the Flag (CTF) experience designed to prepare and inspire the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
In just two years, Morgan and Rebekah have demonstrated the powerful impact of women leading in a field where they are critically underrepresented by together transforming CyberAero into a unique statewide educational outreach program, one that blends technical expertise, mentorship and Embry‑Riddle’s signature hands-on approach to learning.
Two Paths Converging in Cybersecurity Leadership
Morgan Finch: Leading by Example
Finch arrived at Embry‑Riddle with only a basic understanding of cybersecurity but with the confidence that Embry‑Riddle would “provide a top-notch education… and endless opportunities” to learn and build leadership. Over time, she found her stride through clubs, competitions and conferences. She has served as Vice President of Women in Cybersecurity, team lead for CyberAero and a cybersecurity intern at Palo Verde Generating Station, where she worked hands-on with insider-threat defense and industrial cybersecurity.
Her proudest accomplishment? Bringing CyberAero back to life.
“Going from competing to creating a Capture-the-Flag competition was something I never thought would be possible… Being able to provide such a unique opportunity to high school students is the most rewarding part.”
Morgan’s leadership style is anchored in support, communication and modeling excellence, a philosophy shaped by Embry‑Riddle alumna Amalie Hansen, whose mentorship encouraged her to get involved early in her academic journey.
Rebekah Sokoloski: Shaping a Future in Cybersecurity Leadership
For Sokoloski, the turning point…
