AZ Cyber Initiative Initiative

AZ Cyber Initiative provides programs designed to benefit youth, educators, post-secondary students, and the broader community. Its major emphasis is on empowering youth from underserved communities and ensuring equitable opportunities for skill development, career exploration, and workforce readiness.

• Cyber Bootcamps (Beginner): A week-long program for rising 9th to 12th-grade students, focusing on hands-on skill development and cybersecurity fundamentals. It fosters academic interests and cross-sector career exploration while emphasizing good digital citizenship and online safety
• Cyber Bootcamps (Intermediate): For students who complete the beginner bootcamp, this program advances technical and critical thinking skills through simulated cybersecurity challenges. Participants develop strategic career plans and gain an in-depth awareness of cybersecurity pathways.
• Educator Cyber Bootcamps: Professional development and specialized Cyber Bootcamps for educators, providing tangible materials that foster a classroom environment encouraging students to explore cybersecurity across content areas.
• Middle School Cyber Exploration Events: One-day interactive events that introduce middle school students and their families to cybersecurity concepts, creating early interest in STEM and safe online practices.
• Internship Program: Tailored for Cyber Bootcamp graduates, this program offers diverse work-based learning opportunities, including digital internships with employers and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs). Participants undertake meaningful projects and receive stipends for their contributions. Bootcamp alumni can also return to serve as Youth Cyber Instructors.
• Mentorship Program: Connects high school students with qualified professionals in cybersecurity, IT, and related fields nationwide. Through virtual mentorships, participants gain insights and guidance from seasoned experts.
• Leadership + Training Internship Program: A comprehensive program for two and four-year college students, often non-traditional students pursuing degrees in cybersecurity or related fields, emphasizing career readiness, mentorship, and workforce alignment.

Through these initiatives, AZ Cyber aims to bridge the digital skills gap and create pathways to successful careers in cybersecurity, while developing digital literacy and resilience in the broader community.