Cybersecurity Students Named Top 2 For The Class of 2026!

 

Springfield-Clark Career Technology Center (CTC) is proud to reveal the Top 2 Students of the Class of 2026 - Tiffany Perez Garcia and Koen Galbreath! These amazing seniors were chosen for their outstanding grade point average (GPA). Throughout their time at CTC, they have demonstrated academic excellence and commitment to their career field.

 

Tiffany and Koen will even attend the Larry K. Zerkle Excellence in Education Award ceremony that recognizes the top students in Clark County and the teachers who inspired them.
 

Tiffany has been involved in Business Professionals of America (BPA), a professional organization for students, serving as a secretary and as a BPA state qualifier in the Computer Security and Fundamental Spreadsheet Applications competition. Tiffany competed in CyberPatriot, the largest cyber contest for high schoolers, twice while at CTC, finishing in 3rd place in the state-wide competition with her team. She was also active in CTC’s chapter of Key Club and as a member of the National Technology Honor Society.

 

Tiffany was awarded the Springfield City School District’s Business Advisory Council Award of Excellence three times for her grade point average and for excelling in the areas of service, character, and leadership. Tiffany was also the recipient of the Aspirations in Computing Ohio High School Award from the National Center for Women & Information Technology.

 

In addition to her involvement at CTC, Tiffany has been a powerlifter for the Springfield High Wildcats and is the 2026 state champion in her weight class! She chose her powerlifting coach, Mr. Davis, to attend Larry K. Zerkle Excellence in Education Award ceremony with her because of his amazing coaching and his ability to empower. His encouragement has made her more determined not only in her sport, but in life. His impact on her mindset is something she will always remember and appreciate.

 

This summer, she plans to work and enjoy her last summer with family and friends before leaving for basic military training in the fall. She plans to continue her education and begin her career in Cybersecurity through her enlistment in the United States Air Force.
 

Koen plans to attend Cedarville University to pursue a degree in Cyber Operations and plans to work for the United States Government in the cybersecurity field. As a Cybersecurity student Koen participated in CyberPatriot, the largest cyber contest for high schoolers, where he and his team earned 3rd place in the state of Ohio. As the Top Performing Senior of the Cybersecurity, Koen received the Jaguar Award.

 

He was also a member of Business Professionals of America (BPA) and competed at the regional, state, and national levels, earning a spot in the Top 10 students in the nation for Advanced interview skills. Koen received the Governor's Merit Scholar Award and the Helen J. Brumfield Clark-Shawnee Scholarship from the Springfield Foundation.

 

Koen invited Mrs. Yake, his Cybersecurity Program Instructor, to attend the Larry K. Zerkle Excellence in Education Award ceremony with him because she has been a great teacher. Her teaching style helped him stay engaged and learn the material through real, hands-on practice. Additionally, Mrs. Yake was kind, approachable, and happy to help. Koen is grateful for her guidance and the opportunities to learn more and explore his passion. 

 

Tiffany and Koen have displayed the value of being Career Ready, College Ready, and Life Ready. Their dedication, talent, and devotion to learning have helped them stand out. As they begin the next chapter of their life, we are confident they will continue to achieve great things. Congratulations to our Top 2 of the class of 2026! 🎉👏