PTECH Students Get Hands-On with Tech and Innovation at FSU

Mar 31, 2025 9:00 AM

Frostburg State University’s Department of Computer Science and Information Technologies recently welcomed students from the P-TECH dual enrollment program in Allegany County for hands-on visit filled with creativity, collaboration and discovery.

Students began their day in the Department of Communication’s TV studio, where they got a behind-the-scenes look at the intersection of media production, technology and digital security. Discussions focused on the real-world vulnerabilities and technical demands of running a student-led studio.

Next, the students took on their first-ever CTF (Capture the Flag) cybersecurity challenge, hosted by members of FSU’s Cybersecurity Club. In this interactive session, they worked through real-world scenarios and digital puzzles that introduced the core principles of cybersecurity, critical thinking and problem-solving.

The visit wrapped up in the SPARK Innovation Lab, where students had the opportunity to build simple circuits alongside FSU students. The experience gave them a sample of applied creativity and collaboration—key traits of future innovators.

“These students brought a real spark to campus,” said Dr. Michael Flinn, professor of Computer Science and Chair of the Department. “Their curiosity and determination are exactly what the future of technology and security needs.”

Feedback from the visit was overwhelmingly positive. Autumn Becker, Director of the Western Maryland IT Center for Excellence at ACM, summed it up stating, “Our students are so fortunate to have participated in such an informative and welcoming visit.”

Frostburg State remains committed to providing pathways and experiences that energize the next generation of tech-savvy leaders.