In today’s hyper-connected landscape, a network technician can no longer afford to just keep the lights on. When a sophisticated threat strikes, the network isn't just infrastructure—it is the battlefield. This program is engineered to transform IT professionals into elite network defenders who don't just manage connectivity but actively command it. By bridging the gap between core engineering and high-stakes cyber defense, this pathway equips you with the tactical terrain-mapping and infrastructure-integration skills demanded by Military Cyber Protection Teams (CPTs) and Top-Tier Corporate Incident Response Teams alike.
This training pathway is designed to align with the DoD Cyber Workforce Framework (DCWF) standards for a Network Technician operating within a Cyber Protection Team (CPT) environment. A CPT Network Technician does not just maintain connectivity; they serve as the foundational link between physical/logical infrastructure and tactical cyber defense. This pathway transitions a candidate from core network proficiency to advanced terrain mapping and tactical infrastructure integration.
*This pathway is currently in development, and all information is tentative and subject to change. It is offered independently by the partner institution and is not currently eligible for CyberSkills2Work funding.*
Format
Asynchronous Online
Veterans
Transitioning Military
Transitioning First Responders
Federal/State/Local Government Personnel
Military Spouses
18 years or older
Must possess basic reading and math skills
Possess a High School Diploma or GED
10th Grade Reading and Math Level as assessed by the TABE Exam
Must possess basic Digital Literacy skill as assessed by the Microsoft Digital Literacy Exam (70% or higher score on proctored pre-assessment)
Able to commit to 5 hours per week of training (in-person, live online, asynchronous online, or a combination) for 12 weeks
The National Cybersecurity Workforce Development Program, CyberSkills2Work, is led by the University of West Florida and funded by the DoW CIO Cyber Academic Engagement Office and the NSA National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Program.