Quinn launches cyber security job contest

Gov. Pat Quinn is launching a statewide competition to identify and train Illinois residents for jobs in cyber security.

Quinn announced the Illinois Cyber Challenge on Monday. The competition is free and open to anyone, but the governor says it will specifically target veterans, many of whom already have training in the field.

The challenge will involve three online tests, each with a pre-test tutorial. The top scorers in the online exams will be invited to a championship competition. A special Veterans Cyber Camp also will be this summer.

The governor is partnering with U.S. Cyber Challenge (U.S.CC) and the Cyber Aces Foundation to hold the series of competitions, events, and training that will comprise the program.

The top finishers in the competition will be eligible for additional training and residencies in the cyber security field.

Quinn says there is a huge demand for trained professionals to counter cyber security threats in both the public and private sector.