[ education ]

PAIGE KOCOUREK

It is no secret technology has infiltrated nearly every part of human life . The rise in technology ’ s role in contemporary society comes with considerable security risks .

“ There is not a single person whose life is not touched by technology today . From the programmable thermostat in your house to the media system in your car , technology is all around us . Attackers who would wish to steal your privacy , your money or your property can abuse that technology ,” says Patrick Smith , associate professor at Mountwest Community and Technical College . “ It is important that we have more cybersecurity experts who can make sure every new technology that benefits society is secured from hurting society as well .”

As cybersecurity grows in importance , West Virginia ’ s colleges and universities recognize the growing demand for qualified individuals to join the cybersecurity workforce .

“ Although there are many IT professionals in the industry , we are lacking those with cybersecurity skill sets . From social media to businesses , the data that needs to be protected is left unattended . Thus , the need for cybersecurity professionals is in high demand , and that demand does not show signs of slowing down any time soon ,” says Adam Beatty , Ph . D ., associate professor and program director of cybersecurity at the University of Charleston .

The cyber industry is constantly changing and evolving , which means there is a rising need for cyber defense .

“ Today , cybersecurity is critical to the protection and safety of our businesses , organizations , citizens and national infra- structure . As cyber threats continue to evolve and advance , we need to continue to stay vigilant through research and the development of new defensive strategies and technologies to combat the latest cybersecurity threats ,” says Christopher Ramezan , Ph . D ., CISSP , CDPSE , assistant professor at West Virginia University ’ s John Chambers College of Business and Economics . “ As there is currently a skills gap in the cyber - security field , with millions of jobs unfilled , training the next generation of cybersecurity professionals is critical to advancing the cyber defense of both public and private sector organizations and our nation ’ s security .”

The Mountain State is dedicated to preparing our nation ’ s future cyber defense experts . Institutions are up to the task of bridging the skills gap in cybersecurity and have done this through their unique and necessary programs . Many colleges and universities throughout West Virginia have cybersecurity programs that provide practical and hands-on training , instruction by experienced industry experts , courses focused on foundational skills and knowledge , opportunities for real-world experiential learning and networking and job placement assistance .

West Virginia Executive , in an effort to highlight the cybersecurity programs in West Virginia , worked with colleges and universities in the state to compile a chart outlining the schools that are rising to the challenge of preparing the next generation of experts who will defend the cyber world . •

26 WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE