Cybersecurity and internet technology (IT) are two of the fastest-growing fields in the U.S., with cybersecurity jobs projected to grow by 33% by 2033. In San Diego alone, there are more than 1,000 cybersecurity companies (and counting). That rapid growth means a boom in employment – and an ever-growing skills gap.
At National University, that also means a big opportunity. This past year, the school was awarded a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to support job
training and preparation. In partnership with the San Diego Cyber Center of Excellence (SDCCOE) – a nonprofit that mobilizes academia, industry and government to grow the regional
cyber economy – it’s using a portion of the funds to expand training and job-placement support in cybersecurity and IT.
“We find that cyber and IT careers are a natural fit for our military-affiliated students,” said Meg O’Grady, SVP, Military and Government Programs, for NU. She’s also a U.S. Army veteran and military spouse.
The university has long boasted a robust cybersecurity program with top-tier professors, hands-on classroom training, and a Master’s – level academic track. The VA grant allows it to expand
that support and reach, for even greater impact. In partnership with the SDCCOE, they’ll offer services like resume assistance, interview training, job recruitment training, employment
placement services, and employment education. The organizations expect to place 80 students in internships or jobs that will help launch their careers in the field.
NU has deep military roots. A veteran founded the school more than 50 years ago and today, more than 30% of NU students are military-affiliated. For O’Grady, it’s not just the skills that
people learn in the armed services that make them good matches for tech, it’s also their motivation. Working in cybersecurity and IT, she said, allows veterans and transitioning students to take their commitment to protect and serve and apply it to their civilian lives.
One of the programs that the SDCCOE launched, for example, is the San Diego Cyber Clinic. It’s an operation that offers free cybersecurity and IT services to under-resourced organizations in the city. At the same time, the clinic gives students a chance to work on real-world challenges and technology.
That hands-on experience, combined with in-classroom excellence and an ethos of support, can be a springboard for long-term success.
At NU, said O’Grady, “It’s not enough to be an educator, but [we must] also [be] a community support organization and a connector for people who want to make a difference.”
She sees the role of NU and its partnership as a chance to help students obtain jobs in their communities, making the transition to the workforce as successful as possible. And she also believes that support early on can lead to success long-term.
“It’s important for us to help get them not only jobs, but careers that will help them – and their families – thrive now, and in the future.”