If you thought high schoolers were too young to learn cybersecurity, then you should check out what’s happening in Gwinnett County. The students there will blow you away with their drive and maturity, taking full advantage of Gwinnett County’s cybersecurity pathway to set themselves up for bright futures in tech.
The pathway is not only helping young minds decide if tech is right for them, but they’re also equipping them with skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this critical field. This presents a tremendous opportunity, not only for the students, who gain an early advantage in this highly rewarding industry, but also for the tech sector, which is currently grappling with a significant skills gap, particularly in cybersecurity.
Understanding tech pathways in Georgia
In the state of Georgia, educational pathways are structured to set students up for career success. Students have the opportunity to enroll in tech pathway courses, and upon completion, the state covers the cost of their certification exams. Gwinnett County has taken this initiative a step further by creating a specialized cybersecurity pathway and course plan tailored for high school students.
Celebrating success and student achievements
The success of this initiative is evident in the impressive student pass rates and inspiring stories. Through these programs, students gain invaluable insights into cybersecurity as a viable career path, and they are provided with a clearer understanding of their interests and aspirations before graduation. They also recognize that this pathway is not just an educational program — it's a gateway to their future careers. By achieving certification at a young age, they are opening doors to numerous opportunities and boosting their confidence along the way.
As one student who completed the cybersecurity pathway shared, "Getting my CompTIA Security+ certifications helped my self esteem and confidence a lot because it’s the largest and most important certification that I’ve ever passed. And it also gave me confidence that I’m in the right career path and field that I want to be in. It really affirmed my belief that cybersecurity is for me in the future and this is what I want to continue to pursue.”
Another student said, "I think having the Security+ certification is just doors. This is what I’ve done, so young. I’ve completed this. I’ve put in the work. I think it opens more doors.”
Our mission to empower students for career success
At the heart of our partnership with Gwinnett County lies a powerful mission: to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students by setting them up for career success and unlocking their true passions.
We are dedicated to providing students with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to explore and excel in tech. By fostering an environment of learning and discovery, we aim to inspire students to pursue their interests. Our commitment is to guide them on a path where their passions align with rewarding career opportunities, ensuring a bright future in tech.
Exploring broader impacts
Our partnership with Gwinnett County is a testament to the power of education and collaboration in shaping the future of cybersecurity. We are proud to be part of this journey and look forward to seeing the continued success of students as they embark on their career paths with confidence and determination.
The success of Gwinnett County's cybersecurity pathway serves as a model for other academic programs. By creating similar pathways, educational institutions can have a profound impact on students' lives, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their chosen fields.
Interested in creating a similar impact at your academic organization? Explore CompTIA’s academic programs.
