# Cybersecurity Pathways for High School Education

> **NSF 04002526DB NSF STEM Education** · Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GA) · $473,394

## Abstract

According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Strategic Plan (2023), the United States faces a lack of both qualified and diverse cyber professionals. Compounding these concerns, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), projects a 32% increase in cyber-related careers from 2022-2032, resulting in nearly 17,000 job openings annually. To address this need, this project will establish a one-year Dual Enrollment (DE) pathway for high school students to earn a Technical Certificate of Credit (TCC) in Cybersecurity Fundamentals.  Over three years, 135 students will be recruited into the program, gaining hands-on experiential learning through collaboration with local school systems and industry partners.  The project aims to improve the transition from K-12 to higher education and careers, improving student readiness in this high-demand field.  

GPTC will structure the TCC as a two-semester program, integrating real-world simulations, professional interactions, and cybersecurity career exposure.  Students will earn 18 college credits, developing foundational skills in network security, risk management, and digital forensics.  The program culminates in a Student Showcase, where students present their skills to peers, faculty, and industry professionals. These activities will further strengthen the K-12 pipeline by establishing a pathway into for future enrollment into the college's cybersecurity program and other emerging technology fields, as well as 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2501076
- **Awardee organization:** Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** FVCJFYYLJT13
- **PI:** Susan G Glenn
- **Primary program:** 04002526DB NSF STEM Education
- **All programs:** ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, SCIENCE, MATH, ENG & TECH EDUCATION
- **Estimated total:** $473,394
- **Funds obligated:** $473,394
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/15/2025 → 06/30/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2501076

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2501076, Cybersecurity Pathways for High School Education. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2501076. Licensed CC0.

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