Welcoming the inaugural class of the Industrial Network Cybersecurity program
Spam, identity theft, cyberattacks, and the list goes on for the types of cybercrimes. Most of us understand the need for cybersecurity awareness and products when it comes to our personal computers and devices; however, the same is also true for industry. Earlier this year, BCIT launched Canada’s first Industrial Network Cybersecurity program following a need for trained professionals to protect the industrial networks operated by industry partners. This demand quickly led to the formation of the inaugural class of the Industrial Network Cybersecurity program which began in September.
The Industrial Network Cybersecurity program is a two year interdisciplinary diploma program between the School of Energy and the School of Computing and Academic Studies. The inaugural class introduced 16 students who are eager to become professionals in an emerging occupation that already has a large demand in the workforce.
Who enrolls in this program?
Students in the program come from all walks of life. Some came directly from high school while others had jobs and were looking for a career change. But the things they had common were coding and an interest in computers and networking.
Martin Legal, one of our students, has been anticipating the introduction of the program since the fall of 2018 when we were gathering interest and feedback at Big Info and Information Sessions.
Martin was part of the CISCO Networking Academy team at his high school so this program was right in his wheelhouse. The team also competed in the Canadian Cybersecurity Defense Challenge (CCDC) and placed 6th in Canada, solidifying his interest in the program.
When asked what he was enjoying about the program so far, he stated, “The electronics are very interesting and I am really enjoying the hands-on practical education. I’m actually doing what I came to do.”
David Leversage, Program Head for the Industrial Network Cybersecurity program, explained, “It’s exciting to see BCIT responding to the needs of our industry partners by offering a program that not only educates students for entry level positions in a new and emerging occupation, but is also unique in Canada.”
Congratulations to this first class of the Industrial Network Cybersecurity program!
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Interested in this program?
To meet the demand of industry needs, BCIT will be opening up seats for 40 students to join the program in September 2020 (applications begin November 1st, 2019).
The program will be a part of Big Info which is happening on November 13 at the BCIT Burnaby Campus. Big Info is an opportunity to speak to BCIT instructors and gather more information on program offerings.
Can’t make it to Big Info on November 13? The School of Energy will be hosting an Information Session on November 27 where attendees will be able to tour the learning space and see what students in the program will learn. Register for the Information Sessions here.
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