Beyond The Cert – The Power of Cybersecurity Academies in K12
10:00 am - 10:50 am CT
Room: Virtual
Join the discussion on how a K12 Cyber Security Academy can change student’s life and where young minds become the guardians of the digital realm!
We will explore why a cybersecurity academy that is based on the esports model can connect talented and underserved students to a school district.
Esports is exploding across the country because it is more than just playing games. The same is true for cybersecurity training. By implementing some of the same attribute as esports programs, districts can reach and engage talented students to be the life blood of cyber-talent for both their school district, prepare them for college or lead them directly to the cybersecurity industry in general.
This idea isn’t just about mastering the technical aspects of cybersecurity; it’s also about cultivating the competitive spirit within each student by instilling values such as integrity, teamwork, and resilience, empowering them to become ethical defenders.
Presenter
Thomas became a Technology Director over twenty-five years ago in Georgia after spending six years in the corporate world working in technology, leadership and training. He worked at Huntington County Schools in Indiana as Chief Technology Officer for over 20 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree from the University of Illinois in Curriculum, Technology and Education Reform. He retired as a Captain in the United States Army Reserve and holds several technical certifications.