This morning on WCOA 1370 AM/104.9 FM, Dr. Eman El-Sheikh discussed upcoming cohorts for military veterans and first responders for UWF Center for Cybersecurity’s CyberSuccess Program, sponsored by the Regions Foundation.
The CyberSuccess Program provides intensive cybersecurity training to help individuals launch or advance cybersecurity careers. The program is free for eligible transitioning military and veterans and first responders.
“UWF was selected to lead the National Cybersecurity Workforce Development program by the National Security Agency,” said Dr. El-Sheikh. “It’s funded through a $9 million, three-year grant and provides complete 100% scholarships to eligible participants. We’re leading a coalition of 10 colleges and universities across the country to train 1,600 veterans and military and first responders over the next three years and help prepare and get them into cybersecurity roles.”
The UWF Center for Cybersecurity is accepting applications for the first cohort, which will focus on entry-level positions, through Feb. 4.
“This is anybody coming out of the military or a first responder who have interest in IT and cybersecurity,” said Dr. El-Sheikh. “We’re going to start them from scratch. We’re going to give them an intensive six-month training program, completely online that offers five industry certifications, four courses, and helps prepare and connect them to jobs.”
The second cohort will be a more advanced pathway that will be offered later this spring. Dr. El-Sheikh said, “It’s for those with some IT skills who are looking to advance in a cybersecurity career. And one of the great things is that there’s so many cyber jobs, not just nationally, but right here along the cyber coast. And we want to help those businesses find the talent right here at home with our transitioning military population.”
To learn more, visit uwf.edu/RegionsCyberSuccess.
