RCCC named National Center of Academic Excellence in cyber defense
Published 12:00 am Thursday, December 3, 2015
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College was recently officially designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Two-Year Education (CAE2Y) for the next four years. The designation establishes the college as one of the nation’s academic trailblazers in cybersecurity.
The CAE2Y program recognizes colleges and universities that have made significant contributions in meeting the national demand for cyber defense education, developing a number of professionals with cyber defense expertise and ultimately contributing to the protection of the national information infrastructure.
RCCC is one of two community colleges in North Carolina with the designation.
Zackary Hubbard, program chairman for the Computer Technology Integration program, said the program was heavily evaluated by the National Security Agency.
“In a nutshell, the CAE2Y program is designed to prepare our students to meet the nation’s cybersecurity needs, keep the talent pipeline primed, share expertise and serve as vehicles for growth,” he said.
One of the reasons for the designation is the college’s ongoing curricula development, including adding specializations in cybersecurity, cybercrime and networking technologies.
The program will also give students eligibility for internship placement assistance from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, field trips, experiences with the agencies and more.
The program will get students ready for careers in local and national industries such as law enforcement and banking.
“This prestigious recognition is not only an honor for Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, it is an honor for the local community as a whole,” Dr. Carol Spalding, president of the college, said. “We need people receiving training in high-tech, high-paying sectors like cybersecurity, and we need them receiving that training right here in Rowan and Cabarrus counties. I’m proud of Rowan-Cabarrus’ hard work in earning this designation, and I look forward to the dividends it will pay as we work to build and contribute to the economy.”