Preparing for the Future: Northeastern State University’s Commitment to Cybersecurity and AI Education
As cybersecurity threats and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to reshape the job market, Northeastern State University (NSU) is stepping up its efforts to prepare students for these in-demand fields. With programs targeting both K-12 engagement and college-level degrees, NSU is positioning itself as a key player in Oklahoma’s tech talent pipeline.
Cybersecurity: Training the Next Generation
In response to the rising need for cybersecurity professionals, NSU is launching educational initiatives aimed at students across multiple levels. Dr. Stacey White, the university’s cybersecurity program coordinator, emphasizes that young people are particularly well-suited for these roles due to their inherent comfort with technology.
To foster this interest, NSU is hosting cybersecurity camps and has developed hands-on facilities, including a state-of-the-art cybersecurity lab. These initiatives introduce students to real-world applications of cybersecurity principles. “When I first started in technology and the cyber world, it was usernames and passwords,” Dr. White reflects. “Today, it’s much more intricate than that.” This evolution underscores the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills necessary to navigate a complex digital landscape.
The Scope of the Problem
Cybercrime is a growing threat that shows no signs of slowing down. Dr. White points out that while everyone should have a basic understanding of cybersecurity, the most pressing need lies in training new professionals who can keep pace with evolving threats. Currently, there are nearly 450,000 open cybersecurity jobs nationwide, with almost 4,200 vacancies in Oklahoma alone. This staggering statistic highlights the urgent demand for skilled workers in the field, making NSU’s initiatives all the more critical.
New AI Degree Launching This Fall
This fall, NSU is set to introduce a new degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics. Dr. Janet Buzzard, dean of the College of Business and Technology, explains that the program combines technical knowledge with business insight—a skill set that employers across various industries are increasingly seeking. “All of our graduates in our College of Business and Technology need that skill set of artificial intelligence,” Dr. Buzzard states. “Not just the one major and degree that we’re promoting here.”
The new degree is designed to respond to student interest and market demand, offering versatile career paths in fields such as finance, logistics, and technology development. By aligning academic offerings with industry needs, NSU is ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern workforce.
Encouraging Early Engagement
Dr. Buzzard emphasizes the importance of exposing students to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity early in their academic careers. This exposure helps them view these fields as viable and exciting career options. To facilitate this, NSU Broken Arrow is hosting a cybersecurity camp for middle school-aged students. Scheduled for today and July 8, the camp will provide campers with insights from industry professionals and experienced educators on the importance of cybersecurity, effective communication in a rapidly evolving digital world, and foundational concepts in coding and encoding.
NSU’s commitment to modernizing its programs comes at a crucial time, as both AI and cybersecurity jobs are experiencing significant growth. By building opportunities that align with the future of work, the university is not only preparing its students for successful careers but also contributing to the broader tech talent pipeline in Oklahoma.
In conclusion, Northeastern State University is taking proactive steps to address the challenges posed by cybersecurity threats and the growing demand for AI expertise. Through innovative programs and early engagement initiatives, NSU is equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in these dynamic fields. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, NSU stands ready to lead the way in preparing students for the future.