Program Overview

CyberSkills2Work Florida Program

Program Overview

The CyberSkills2Work Florida, offered by the University of West Florida's Center for Cybersecurity and AI, is an intensive cybersecurity training program designed to help individuals launch or advance cybersecurity careers. The program provides free cybersecurity training and career development for eligible Florida residents to prepare and transition them to rewarding cybersecurity jobs. The program is delivered online in an asynchronous format.

Program Details

• The program prepares participants for System Administrator and related cybersecurity work roles.
• The program provides asynchronous online training courses, industry certification preparation, and vouchers, digital badges and credentials, professional development, and job placement support.
• The program is offered for a cohort of 8 eligible participants, with all costs covered by a grant from the Department of Education via the Florida Center for Cybersecurity Expanding Cybersecurity and Information Technology Pathways.

System Administrator Pathway

• The pathway is offered from January 17 to August 31, 2023.
• This seven-month, four-course training pathway prepares participants for entry-level System Administrator and related cybersecurity work roles as described in the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework.
• Training courses include:
  • CompTIA A+ Exam Prep
  • CompTIA Network+ Exam Prep
  • Essential Cyber Defenses
  • CompTIA Security+ Exam Prep
• The program includes industry certification prep courses and vouchers for CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA Security+.

Program Benefits

• Offers a short-term, intensive cybersecurity training pathway and career development support at no cost to eligible participants.
• Instructor-led courses are taught by UWF faculty and prepare students for cybersecurity careers with foundational knowledge and hands-on skills and exercises via the Florida Cyber Range.
• Includes industry certification prep courses and vouchers, including CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+.
• Career development support and access to connect with employers and job opportunities.
• Provides industry certifications, digital badges, and credentials to document skills and competencies.
• Program and courses are 100% asynchronous online, making learning accessible and convenient.

Program Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for program consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a Florida Resident for a minimum of 12 months
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have a strong interest in cybersecurity and working in the field upon completion of the program
• Be available to fully participate in the program during the entire duration and complete all course and program requirements
• Have some IT or cybersecurity experience
• Once selected, participants will also need to meet any other program requirements. Some job opportunities may require the ability to obtain a security clearance.

Preferred Requirements

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in IT or STEM-related area
• At least two years of IT or cybersecurity experience
• Security clearance (active or past)

Program Participation Requirements

This is an intensive training program. Participants must dedicate ample time to participating in and completing all program and course requirements. To succeed in the program, participants should plan to spend approximately 10-20 hours per week on program and course requirements.

• Commit to participating in the program during the entire duration
• Must have their own working computer with a camera, a mic, and a reliable high-speed Internet connection
• Participate in all program and course activities and meetings, including scheduled courses, industry certification exam preparation, career development, and information sessions
• Dedicate time towards self-study and complete all program and course requirements, including assigned readings, labs, assessments, and surveys each week
• Register for industry certification exams during those courses and take the exams within two weeks of each certification course completion
• Actively participate in job searches and employment placement efforts during and upon completion of the program

Application Requirements

Required Documents:

1. Proof of Florida residency
2. A brief up-to-date resume
3. A copy of unofficial transcripts for the most advanced degree completed
4. A 2-page letter of intent that demonstrates interest and commitment to the program and a cybersecurity career
5. At least two professional recommendation letters

Program Funding

The program is funded by the Florida Department of Education via the Florida Center for Cybersecurity Expanding Cybersecurity and Information Technology Pathways Program.