Kinston native places second in cybersecurity competition

Kinston native Jhordan A. Sargeant placed second in the MetLife Summer Cyber Invitational Live Fire Exercise held in Cary, according to information submitted by his family.

Sargeant participated in a cybersecurity mock takedown competition that tested students’ ability to identify a simulated cyberattack, secure vulnerable credentials and respond before a mock breach could occur.

Flynn Loomis placed first in the competition. The two students represented Johnston Community College’s cybersecurity program, which swept the top two spots during the event. Todd Retzlaff served as team manager.

“Every challenge pushed us to think faster, act smarter, and collaborate under pressure,” Sargeant said. “Finishing second only motivates me to keep sharpening my skills and aim even higher next time.”

Sargeant holds an associate degree in information technology with a concentration in cybersecurity and is currently enrolled at East Carolina University, where he is working toward a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity.

His grandmother, Marsha Chapman-Powell of Kinston, said the family is proud of his accomplishment.

“Learning that Jhordan earned second place filled my heart with pride,” Chapman-Powell said. “He’s always had that spark for technology and seeing him shine among so many talented competitors reminded me that hard work and faith truly pay off.”

Sargeant is the son of Candace Sargeant and Troy Sargeant and the grandson of Marsha Chapman-Powell and the late Sylvester Powell of Kinston.