Robert A. Taft Information Technology High School
Cyber Security Employment Pipeline
About This Career
Cyber security professionals have a wide range of responsibilities, but the focus of employees working in this field is to protect online data from being compromised. As more of our personal information is stored online, the more important it becomes to step up security. Cyber security careers are diverse and many roles can be found with banks, retailers and government organizations. On the job, you can expect to safeguard an organization’s files and network, install firewalls, create security plans and monitor activity. If a breach occurs, employees are responsible for identifying the problem and finding a solution quickly.
Due to the frequency of cyber-attacks, a multitude of careers and qualified professionals are in demand. Jobs in this field include the following:
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Security Administrator
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Security Operations Analyst
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Digital Forensic Analyst
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Security Engineer
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Chief Information Security Officer
"Once you complete this program, opportunities will open up to you across the globe because there is such a shortage of cyber security talent."
—Terry Williams, Belcan Chief Information Officer
"Before taking the Cyber Security program, I didn't know a lot of things about IT. After being in the course and taking a summer internship with Belcan, I feel that with more training and experience, I'll be able to take on the real world."
—Ochae' Coley, Robert A. Taft Information Technology High School student
About This Program
The Cyber Security Academy was launched in 2018 and Cincinnati Public Schools was the first urban district in the United States to offer cyber security as a high school course. It is offered exclusively at Taft IT High School. This is a three-year program, beginning in the sophomore year.
GPA Required to Enter the Program
Students must have a 2.0 GPA and a recommendation from a teacher, school counselor or principal, a 93 percent attendance rate, and on-track for graduation.
Classroom Instruction
Students will have the chance to explore the cybersecurity world through games and challenges. The cyber security training, however, will not be limited to the classroom, but will also include frequent visits from employees working in the industry and field trips to cybersecurity sites in the region.
Industry Credential
Comp TIA Security and Cyber Security Analyst Credential Exams.
On the Job Training:
Belcan, the primary partner in this program, offers students paid summer internships. Students must provide their own transportation.
Job Prospects after Graduation
Cyber Security is one of the fastest growing industries right now. After successfully completing the cyber security program and passing the cyber security exam, students can land a position with a company anywhere in the world and expect positive job growth and opportunities for advancement.
Expected Salary in this Field
Starting salary in this field is $60,000. Salaries in cyber security may vary due to job responsibilities, education, experience and location.
Our Partners
- ComSpark Tech Innovation Summit
- Lead Tribune Media Group
- Belcan