FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Laurel, MD—Capitol Technology University is proud to announce our 2025 return to DEF CON, the world’s largest and most recognized hacker and cybersecurity conference, taking place August 7–10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC).
Attendees will meet and network with Capitol Tech’s team of expert faculty and staff, who will showcase our nationally recognized cybersecurity programs. Exclusive swag—limited-edition collector badges, hoodies, and t-shirts—will be available at Booth XZBT-03 in the Exhibitor area of the LVCC and online (coming soon). There will even be a special visit from our mascot, Charlie the Charger!
Incoming space cybersecurity PhD student Carmela Gonzales will also join the Capitol Tech team at the event. Carmela was selected as a Hacker Summer Camp scholar by the Diana Initiative, a non-profit corporation that supports diversity and careers in technology, which will be hosting their own convention in Las Vegas on August 4. Carmela will be attending a total of four conventions between August 4–10, including her appearance at DEF CON 33, as part of her scholarship award.
“I’m thrilled to attend DEF CON 33, where the theme ‘Access Everywhere’ highlights accessibility and collaboration within cybersecurity,” said Carmela. “I’m looking forward to spending time with Capitol Technology University, attending my registered DEF CON workshops on cryptography and embedded systems, participating in the Policy Village, and volunteering at the Aerospace Village—all of which offer invaluable, cutting-edge opportunities for continuous learning and growth as I enter my PhD program.”
Carmela has attended DEF CON in the past, and she is a fan. From cyber hobbyists to military leadership, DEF CON attracts an inclusive audience for both networking and learning opportunities. “Exhibitors and attendees have the unique opportunity to engage with a specialized, enthusiastic audience in a community-driven space that fosters innovation through the DEF CON villages,” she added.
DEF CON 33 is one of several upcoming conferences that Capitol Tech is looking forward to attending, including Ai4 in Las Vegas from August 11-13, and GreyCon 2025, hosted on our campus in Laurel, MD, on October 10.
As a technology-focused institution with a longstanding history of cybersecurity education, Capitol Tech exhibits at DEF CON yearly. Since 2003, our university has been designated as an NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD) for our outstanding cyber offerings. Today, Capitol Tech leads the NCAE Northeast Regional Hub, uniting 110 institutions across 14 states and Washington, DC to advance cyber education, strengthen collaboration, and build industry partnerships. We also offer over 25 different cybersecurity degree programs tailored to meet the evolving career needs of technology professionals.
Capitol Tech invites you to connect with us for an unforgettable event celebrating all things cybersecurity. We hope to see you at DEF CON 33!
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About Capitol Technology University
Capitol Technology University is a leading nonprofit STEM university located in Laurel, MD in the vibrant Washington, DC metropolitan area. Recognized under the Carnegie Classification as an Opportunity University and designated by the NSA as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD), the university’s mission is to educate individuals for successful professional careers in STEM by providing relevant learning experiences. Through industry-expert faculty, technical skills development, and innovative partnerships, Capitol Tech fosters career advancement opportunities for the evolving global community. To learn more, visit www.captechu.edu.
Media Contacts
Jack Chielli
VP of Enrollment and Marketing
Capitol Technology University
jchielli@captechu.edu
Lise Dykes
Director of Communications and Creative Strategy
Capitol Technology University
ldykes@captechu.edu
Written by Erica Decker