UNCW Center for Cyber Defense Education will host the 8th Annual UNCW Cybersecurity Conference
- Date: October 8–9, 2026
- Location: Congdon Hall, UNCW Campus, Wilmington, NC
- Conference Registration & Information:
https://8thAnnualUNCWCyberConference.eventbrite.com
This year’s conference will feature two tracks:
- Emerging Cybersecurity Trends (General Cybersecurity) – emerging threats and technologies, AI and cybersecurity, risk management, cybersecurity strategy and practices, workforce development, and other timely issues affecting organizations and the cybersecurity community.
- Maritime Cybersecurity – cybersecurity challenges affecting vessels, ports, maritime facilities, transportation systems, and the broader maritime environment, including OT/ICS security, cyber resilience, autonomous vessels, maritime cyber operations, threat intelligence, regulatory developments, and lessons learned from real-world incidents and operations.
We already have a strong lineup of speakers confirmed for this year’s conference and are working to fill a limited number of remaining program spots. We would especially appreciate your recommendations or introductions to individuals who could bring practical expertise, research, operational perspectives, or real-world experience to either of our conference tracks. We have a few remaining opportunities for approximately 45-minute presentations or panel sessions, as well as 2–3-hour hands-on workshops, where appropriate.
Those interested in speaking at the conference are welcome to complete our Presenter Proposal Form. Alternatively, once you make the introduction, Aysun and I would be happy to follow up with them directly to provide additional conference information, discuss potential presentation topics, and coordinate scheduling and other details.
For organizations that may also be interested in supporting the conference, we would greatly appreciate their consideration of our sponsorship opportunities. They can learn more about the available opportunities and submit their information through our Sponsorship Interest Form.
