To students and parents:
The Internet of Things (IoT), is defined as "the network of physical objects, devices, vehicles, buildings and other items which are embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity, which enables these objects to collect and exchange data." The rapid proliferation of this technology such as mobile, social and cloud computing provides personal and economic benefits. Cisco Systems Inc., estimates the IoT will consist of 50 billion devices connected to the Internet by 2020. However, with the rapid growth of technology comes increased vulnerability and related security issues. As you may well know, cybersecurity is paramount within government and private industry.
There is a severe shortage of personnel to fill the current demand for cybersecurity professionals. The 2023 Cyber Security Report report conducted by Check Point Research discusses the challenge of protecting both public and private network assets. The most recent (ISC)2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2022 is a comprehensive look at today's cybersecurity workforce and the demands to meet adequate employment levels in the near and long term. Where does this lead to while in high school? There are10 Reasons You Should Consider a Career in Cybersecurity. This shortage has resulted in increased emphasis and efforts to stimulate interest at middle and high school levels through sponsored online competitions such as, the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot. and CyberWatchWest whose mission reads,"...to increase the quantity and quality of the Cybersecurity workforce throughout the western United States." How to Become a Ethical Hacker in 2023 outlines the process of becomming an Ethical Hacker. It makes interesting reading and it should be noted that much of what is required is taught here at Irvington High School. The BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) projects a faster than average employment growth rate at 32% from 2018 to 2028.
Through the Cisco Networking Academy, we offer select courses from the academy's portfolio. All of our courses lead toward industry certifications. Industry certifications are valuable to employers because they verify a job candidate's technical skillset. By having earned the certification credential, an employer can safely assume that the candidate has proven knowledge and skill in a particular subject. These certifications are, CompTIA A+; CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) and CCNA CyberOps. These courses have been approved by DOD (Department of Defense) for inclusion in the DoD-Approved 8570 Baseline Certifications for Information Assurance Workforce Improvement Program as an accepted baseline certification for job roles of CCSP Analyst and CCSP Incident Responder. For a global perspective of what the academy is about, I've provided a seven minute informative video which can be accessed here Digital Disruption or from the Cisco Networking Academy Partner image below. Our students have also engaged in online competitions such as the USCyberPatrioit national competition. I look to expand competitive event offerings with participation in the BACCC (Bay Area Community College Consortium). I've posted an informative 25 minute BayCyber Presentation video which includes my former students' participation at the 9 minute, 48 second mark.
Students who successfully complete Internet Engineering 1 & 2 here at IHS can take advantage of San Jose State University (SJSU) Engineering Technology, Computer Network System Management, BS.Taking and successfully completing the third course, CCNA: Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation at the university level, enables a student to take the CCNA certification exam. Upon certification, a student can earn an interview for an apprenticeship at Cisco Systems. This is a paid apprenticeship in which they earn credits towards their degree. Apprenticeships were temporarily suspended due to COVID-19. SJSU is working with a number of hi-tech companies for additional apprenticeship opportunities. SJSU also offers a BS in Smart Manufacturing Systems that is also worth looking into. I am providing the Career Pathway for your review.
Should you have any questions, feel free to contact me
halbizo@fusdk12.net. It is my preferred method of contact. Wishing you all the best and a safe and enjoyable school year...
