WICYS VULNERABILITY DISCLOSURE PROGRAM (VDP)

The WiCyS Vulnerability Disclosure Program (VDP) is designed to provide WiCyS members with hands-on, technical training in identifying, reporting, and remediating cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Utilizing the WiCyS website and platform as a live training environment, participants gain real-world experience in vulnerability discovery, triage, and reporting—key skills that enhance their résumés and prepare them for careers in cybersecurity. The program empowers members to become “Defenders of WiCyS” by fostering a deeper understanding of secure coding practices, systems analysis and responsible disclosure processes.

Participants are encouraged to collaborate, share insights, and build their technical acumen in a supportive community environment. The VDP is open to all WiCyS members and serves as a stepping stone toward more advanced training and industry engagement.

More Details: https://www.wicys.org/benefits/vdp/

CHALLENGE THEME: BURROWING THE BUSINESS

Get ready for the fourth annual Target Cyber Defense Challenge! The challenge will give WiCyS members hands-on experience and a taste of what it’s like to be on a cyber defense team. From tackling intel-driven scenarios to experiencing current threats in the landscape, this challenge will offer many learning opportunities for members to hone their cybersecurity skills. In this year’s challenge, you will first play both the defender and threat actor roles during a tech company take-over where someone is Burrowing in the Business.

This engaging program is for WiCyS members to dive in, gain new learning experiences, network with an inclusive cohort of peers, work one-on-one with the Target cybersecurity team, and explore what incident response, threat detection, and threat intelligence are all about.

The top 10 participants will also receive a scholarship to attend the 2026 WiCyS Conference.

No previous cybersecurity experience is required to join this training since it’s a tiered, multi-staged learning opportunity

More Details: https://www.wicys.org/benefits/cyber-defense-challenge-made-possible-by-target/

WICYS STAGE READY PUBLIC SPEAKING FELLOWSHIP

The WiCyS Stage Ready Public Speaking Fellowship is a transformative public speaking training program for mid-career WiCyS members to help prepare them for career advancement. Mastering the art of storytelling and technical communication allows women in cybersecurity to effectively showcase their expertise and enhances their leadership skillset and recognition.  In this three-part program, you’ll learn to clearly communicate your ideas, refine your delivery and develop the confidence you need to command any stage, whether it be your next job interview, a boardroom presentation, negotiation, workshop or keynote. We’re here to support you on your career journey and are ready to get you STAGE READY!

More Details: https://www.wicys.org/benefits/stage-ready-public-speaking-fellowship/

CREATE YOUR LEADING EDGE

The WiCyS State of Inclusion Benchmark Report reveals a career plateau for women in cybersecurity after 6-10 years. Yet, our N2K Cyber Talent study proves WiCyS members outperform their peers, even in advanced roles. WiCyS is here to help change this narrative.

Join 30 ambitious mid-level professionals in our exclusive 12-week program, designed to unlock your leadership potential and accelerate your advancement. Led by industry veteran Karen Worstell, with a proven track record of over 50% of participants achieving promotions or pay increases within three months, this is your opportunity to transform your career trajectory.

More Details: https://www.wicys.org/benefits/create-your-leading-edge/