ICTC's Cybersecurity Training and Work Integrated Learning Program provides participants access to Microsoft Cybersecurity training and certifications as well as experiential learning opportunities to develop technical, foundational, and work-ready skills for cybersecurity roles. 

The rising number of cyber attacks in Canada has left thousands of available cybersecurity positions unfilled. More cybersecurity talent is needed, which will require drawing on wider and more diverse talent pool. A recent study found that only 20% of cybersecurity workers in Canada identify as women, and of those only 25% identify as Black, Indigenous, or as Person of Color (BIPOC).

To address this issue, ICTC in partnership with Microsoft, and a select group of post-secondary institutions is piloting a new initiative aimed at expanding the pool of cybersecurity talent. The program will provide women and non-binary post-secondary education students access to Microsoft training and certification examinations, along with a 16-week paid work-integrated learning placement in the cybersecurity sector. 

The program Cybersecurity training and Work Integrated Learning includes:

• AZ900 fundamentals in cloud security
• SC900 fundamentals in identity, security, and compliance
• AI90 fundamentals in artificial intelligence
• 16-week paid Work-Integrated Learning placement in the cybersecurity sector or Riipen program alternative
• A mentor to support their learning through WicYS and GMI mentorship programs

This pilot program will enable employers to hire participants of the program, which will help increase the diversity of the cybersecurity workforce in Canada.

Expectations are:

• To set a timeline required to complete the project and to communicate clear expectations to students;
• To have frequent touchpoints with students (in forms of 1:1 / group meetings);
• To bridge gaps between learning and practical work