HERMITAGE, Pa. – The Pennsylvania Cybersecurity Center will receive a $100,000 state grant to help strengthen its workforce development efforts.
The Job Training and Education Programs grant, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, will support the launch of an esports initiative aimed at engaging younger students in technology-focused education, using competitive gaming as a tool to enhance student skills in cybersecurity, networking and strategic thinking.
“This is funding for our future workforce and our local economy,” state Rep. Parke Wentling, R-7th, said in a news release Tuesday announcing the grant. “As a former technology education teacher, I recognize cybersecurity and information technology are rapidly growing fields. It’s critical we equip our students and workers with the skills they need to succeed.”
The center, operated by LindenPointe Development Corp., offers a range of professional certification courses while also exploring immersive, team-based cybersecurity training programs. These initiatives aim to give students real-world experience and prepare them for careers in the cybersecurity workforce.
The center partners with several higher education institutions, including Penn State University, Thiel College and Westminster College, to ensure program quality and alignment with academic standards.
Pictured at top: Photo via Facebook | eCenter.