NSF-ATE Cybersecurity

Overview

Marion Technical College Expands Cybersecurity Education: Bridging the Skills Gap and Building a Future-Ready Workforce

In a groundbreaking effort to meet the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, Marion Technical College (MTC), in collaboration with industry and education partners, is launching an innovative project to enhance cybersecurity education. This initiative aims to build a skilled workforce ready to tackle local, regional, and nationwide challenges in cybersecurity.

Key Features of the Cybersecurity Expansion Project

New Courses and Certifications: MTC is developing three cutting-edge cybersecurity courses with embedded certifications and a hands-on capstone course to equip future technicians with real-world skills.
Stackable Certificates: Flexible certificate programs designed to help students and current professionals advance their cybersecurity expertise step-by-step.
Professional Development Boot Camps: Upskilling for high school instructors, local government, and public utility employees to bolster cybersecurity understanding across sectors.
Outreach for Underrepresented Groups: Special focus on engaging rural students, economically disadvantaged individuals, and women in cybersecurity education.

Project Objectives

Curriculum Expansion: Develop new technical courses and enhance the capstone experience for hands-on learning.
Professional Development: Provide cybersecurity training for 60 high school teachers and local government employees.
Enhance Certifications: Integrate stackable credentials and provide upskilling opportunities for 30 incumbent workers in the region.
Increase Diversity in Cybersecurity: Grow the enrollment of rural, economically disadvantaged, and female students in cybersecurity programs by 25%.

Shaping the Future of Cybersecurity

The goal of this initiative is to address the growing demand for skilled technicians and create awareness of cybersecurity career pathways. MTC’s holistic strategy includes industry partnerships, modernized curriculum, and targeted outreach to increase diversity and expand access to high-quality cybersecurity education

Join Us!

Whether you're a student, an educator, or an industry professional, MTC invites you to be part of this transformative initiative. Together, we can strengthen the cybersecurity workforce and ensure a safer digital future.For more information on the courses, certifications, and how you can get involved, contact us or visit our cybersecurity program page. Secure Your Future in Cybersecurity!