The Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation (Levan Center of Innovation) has joined forces with iQ4 Corporation and its Cybersecurity Workforce Alliance (CWA) division to tackle the increasing cybersecurity workforce demand. This collaboration aims to align with the Biden-Harris National Cybersecurity Workforce and Education Strategy to catalyze the development of America's next-generation cybersecurity talent. As of September 2023, Florida has 34,377 open cybersecurity positions, according to Cyberseek.org.
By leveraging the Levan Center of Innovation’s state-of-the-art Cybersecurity Labs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and iQ4’s virtual, mentored, cybersecurity-applied learning, the partnership promises a win-win for learners and employers. It provides emerging talents with crucial workforce experience through iQ4’s immersive projects, expediting their readiness for the job market. Participants undergo real-world simulations to understand how businesses operate during cybersecurity and risk scenarios, complementing the technical skills honed at the Levan Center of Innovation’s Cyber-lab.
Focused on developing comprehensive skills, iQ4's projects prioritize professional, soft, and workplace context skills, which make up 85% of a hiring decision, according to a joint study by Harvard University, The Carnegie Foundation, and Stanford University. Graduates of the program will earn a macro-credential backed by a minimum of 350 hours of Related Work Experience (RWE). The program incorporates mentorship from industry professionals aimed at closing the skills gap and fast-tracking candidates into the cybersecurity sector.
A grant from Truist Bank, administered by the Levan Center of Innovation, has already greenlit the program for 60 learners. The center actively seeks additional sponsorships from regional employers to meet the burgeoning demand economically.
