The Culpeper Technical Education Center (CTEC) has become a beacon of opportunity for high school students in Culpeper County, offering a cybersecurity program that equips students with the skills and certifications needed to enter the workforce or pursue higher education. Through the dedication of passionate instructors and a strong partnership with CompTIA, CTEC is helping students overcome challenges and achieve remarkable success in the field of cybersecurity.
The challenge
For many high school students, cybersecurity can feel like an intimidating and complex field. The challenge for CTEC was to create a program that not only prepared students for industry certifications but also inspired them to pursue careers in technology. Additionally, the instructor faced the unique challenge of entering the role without prior experience in technology, requiring her to quickly adapt and find resources to support her students effectively.
The solution
CTEC’s cybersecurity program, supported by the CompTIA Academic Partner Program, provides students with the tools, resources, and guidance they need to succeed. Key components of the solution include:
- Comprehensive learning resources: The use of platforms like CertMaster to provide engaging, interactive learning experiences beyond traditional lectures.
- Industry certifications: Students are prepared to earn certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Security+, Linux+, and A+, which open doors to immediate career opportunities.
- Instructor support: The CompTIA Instructor Network and dedicated account executives provide invaluable support to the instructor, enabling her to deliver high-quality education and guidance.
This holistic approach ensures that students are not only prepared for certification exams but also confident in their ability to pursue careers in cybersecurity.
The results
The impact of CTEC’s cybersecurity program has been profound:
- Student success stories: One standout student graduated early from high school with multiple certifications, including Network+, Security+, Linux+, and A+. He secured a government job in the county immediately after graduation, earning a competitive salary without pursuing a college degree. His success is a testament to the program’s effectiveness and the instructor’s dedication.
- Workforce readiness: Students leave the program with industry-recognized certifications, making them highly employable right out of high school.
- Pathway clarity: The program helps students identify their career paths, whether they choose to enter the workforce directly or continue their education at a four-year institution.
The cybersecurity program at CTEC demonstrates the power of combining passionate instruction with robust resources and industry partnerships. By leveraging the CompTIA Academic Partner Program and CertMaster platform, the program provides students with a strong foundation for success. The instructor’s dedication to inspiring and guiding her students has resulted in life-changing opportunities for many, proving that with the right support, high school students can achieve extraordinary things.