Scouting has always been about preparing young people for life—teaching skills that matter today and tomorrow. From first aid to leadership, Scouts learn practical knowledge that shapes their future. Now, as technology becomes central to everything we do, Scouting America is moving forward with a new way to stay relevant: the Cybersecurity Merit Badge.
ISC2 members Bob Caruso, CISSP, CCSP and Michael Dunn, CISSP helped to create the Cybersecurity Merit Badge with the support from ISC2 and its nonprofit arm, the Center for Cyber Safety and Education. Launched in 2025, this badge is a first step for scouts to learn more about cybersecurity. As the scouts continue their education, opportunities such as scholarships from the Center and certifications, such as ISC2’s Certified in Cybersecurity (CC), are available as next steps in their path.
“Like many of the scouting merit badges, they are an introduction to the concepts to inspire the scouts to learn more,” said Robert J. Caruso, Sr. Principal Security Architect, UKG. “Think of this badge as first aid for your digital life—helping youth understand how to keep themselves and their information safe online. This badge introduces foundational cybersecurity concepts in a way that’s engaging, interactive and accessible.” Scouts can explore videos, digital booklets and hands-on activities at their own pace, either individually or in groups. It’s designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, provide greater cybersecurity knowledge as well as introduce scouts to a potential of a career in cybersecurity.”
Key to the success of this program is mentors for the next generation. That’s where you, cybersecurity professionals, come in. Anyone who is a professional in the field can become a merit badge counselor.
“Many of us ISC2 members and cybersecurity professionals are looking for ways to impact the next generation, and this is an excellent fit,” Caruso said. “Acting as a mentor requires only a few hours of time but will last a lifetime for the scout.”
Why Volunteer as a Merit Badge Counselor?
- Share Your Expertise: If you work in cybersecurity—or any field tied to technology—you can make a real impact by guiding Scouts through this badge
- Flexible Commitment: No uniforms, no weekly meetings. You simply register with your local council, complete youth protection training and connect with Scouts when they’re ready to learn
- Shape the Future: You’ll help young people discover career paths, certifications and opportunities in cybersecurity—opening doors they might not even know exist
Start with Safe and Secure Online
Not ready to dive into full badge counseling yet? Begin with volunteering to give a Safe and Secure Online presentation from the Center for Cyber Safety and Education. (Find out more and sign up here.) This 45-minute session introduces online safety basics and even covers the first two requirements of the Cybersecurity Merit Badge. It’s a great way to:
- Engage a troop or a group with practical tips for staying safe online
- Spark interest in cybersecurity and encourage Scouts to pursue the full badge
- Share your knowledge without a long-term commitment
After your presentation, you can invite Scouts to continue their journey by working toward the Cybersecurity Merit Badge—and you can be the mentor who guides them.
How It Works
- Sign Up: Contact your local Scouting council and complete the Merit Badge Counselor application. There’s a $25 background check fee
- Get Trained: Complete youth protection training and learn how to guide Scouts through the badge requirements
- Mentor: Meet virtually or in person to discuss, demonstrate and review badge requirements. You can also offer workshops at troop meetings or merit badge events
- Inspire: Share your knowledge, answer questions and encourage Scouts to explore cybersecurity careers
Ready to Make a Difference?
Become a Center for Cyber Safety and Education volunteer, visit Scouting America’s Merit Badge Counselor Information to get started and check out the Cybersecurity Merit Badge details to see what Scouts will learn.
Your expertise can inspire the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. Sign up today and help Scouts move into the future.
