STCC offers Cybersecurity Pathway program to ‘get skilled, get certified, get hired’

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College is launching the Workforce Development IT Academy. 

The IT Academy will offer a series of programs aligning non-credit to credit pathways with multiple entry points for community members to access and join the workforce, with the first series focusing on the Pathway to Cybersecurity.

The Pathway to Cybersecurity courses will begin on March 12, 2024. The training opens the door to a rewarding career in computer and information technology.

Classes will include a part-time option running three evenings a week for 9 months. A summer and winter boot camp will be offered that runs for 10 weeks (full-time day program), which allows students to attend five days a week.

“We want you to get skilled, get certified and get hired,” said John Buxton, Director of Innovation and Program Development at STCC.

“The IT Academy Cybersecurity Pathway takes significantly less time to complete than a full two or four-year degree so you don’t need to put your life on hold,” said Gladys Franco, Assistant Vice President for Workforce Development at STCC. “This unique four-part program is streamlined to build the critical skills for employment and provide a pathway that earns credits to transfer into STCC's Cybersecurity program.”

Cybersecurity training can lead to high-paying positions in the growing field of Computer and IT Security, Franco added.

The cybersecurity classes are in-person and led by an instructor who will provide technical support with the students. Classes include fully simulated labs designed to teach students to solve real-world problems across the IT and Cybersecurity industry.

We want you to get skilled, get certified and get hired. John Buxton, Director of Innovation and Program Development

STCC’s Workforce Development Division is a CompTIA Academic Partner and will utilize up-to-date training tools to build students' skills with stackable credentials. The IT Academy Cybersecurity pathway provides the training to become certified with the following CompTIA Certifications:

  •       CompTIA ITF+ certification establishes an IT Foundation necessary in preparation for digital transformation, and on-the-job success. It is appropriate for both non-technical and technical students or staff professionals working in fields that require a broad understanding of IT and looking to enter the IT Academy Cyber Security Boot Camp.
  •       CompTIA A+ is the industry standard entry-level certification and provides IT knowledge in networking, IoT technology, cloud-based storage, hardware and more. This certification develops problem-solving skills required in technical support careers. CompTIA A+ certified professionals can open many doors working towards career advancement.
  •       CompTIA Network+ validates the technical skills needed to securely establish, maintain and troubleshoot the essential networks that businesses rely on. CompTIA Network+ professionals demonstrate understanding of the latest best practices and foundational networking tools and technologies, including network architecture, high availability, wireless standards and technologies. This certification is a key building block in IT infrastructure.
  • CompTIA Security+ is a global certification that validates the foundational cybersecurity skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career. The CompTIA Security+ certification represents the latest and greatest in cybersecurity, covering the most in-demand skills related to current threats, automation, zero trust, IoT, risk and more IT security related topics. You will understand and use the most recent advancements in cybersecurity technology, terms, techniques, and tools to be well prepared to excel in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Interested? Enroll now: stcc.io/cybersecurity.

Contact Workforce Development at STCC at 413-755-4225 or email workforcetraining@stcc.edu.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu