GAITHERSBURG, Md., Oct. 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) will host top performing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) high school students in two sessions today at its NexGen Cyber Innovation & Technology Center to promote cyber security careers and education, and to learn safe online practices through a series of interactive workshops.

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By introducing Maryland high school students to cyber security at its Third Annual Cyber Security Awareness Day event, Lockheed Martin hopes to influence students to choose a career in cyber security and consider universities with a cyber security curriculum. This will help to fill the Bureau of Labor Statistics projected 65,700 new cyber security jobs between 2010 and 2020.

"Cyberspace underpins our economy, our national security and touches every citizen. Our nation needs talented and energetic students to choose a path in STEM education and consider a future in the cyber security profession," said Rick Johnson, Vice President & Chief Technology Officer, Lockheed Martin Information Systems & Global Solutions. 

In partnership with the Tech Council of Maryland (TCM) and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), Lockheed Martin and government agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the National Security Agency (NSA) and the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST), will share social media tips, offer cyber security best practices and play cyber jeopardy. Additionally, Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin will kick off the first session of the day.

"As a hub of America's intelligence and cyber security sectors, Maryland has the capacity to kick start our regional and national economies with quality jobs that keep us safer and more secure," said Sen. Cardin. "I applaud Lockheed Martin for the value they place in education; they understand that investing in education is not only profitable but also a matter of national security."

"The Tech Council of Maryland applauds Lockheed Martin for its leadership in inspiring Maryland students to become cyber-savvy citizens and consider a career protecting our nation from this threat. Maryland is ground zero for cyber security and we are confident that Maryland's students will someday play a key role in deterring, defending and mitigating the challenges posed by ever more sophisticated adversaries," said Art Jacoby, CEO of Tech Council of Maryland.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs about 120,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation's net sales for 2011 were $46.5 billion.

For additional information, visit our website: www.lockheedmartin.com

SOURCE Lockheed Martin