CPPJ

Abstract: The United States is facing a persistent cybersecurity workforce shortage, which has significant implications for national security and economic growth. Innovative solutions are required to address this challenge. Youth apprenticeships represent a possible solution for filling talent needs; preparing young people for high-growth careers; building more consistent talent pipelines; creating connections between secondary and postsecondary education institutions, workforce development systems, and community-based organizations; and solving workforce needs. This paper provides a case study of a youth apprenticeship program in cybersecurity. This four-year competency-based program is designed for Arizona high school students and represents a collaboration of an Arizona high school, Phoenix Coding Academy; an industry partner, Kudelski Security; and a non-profit intermediary, the Center for the Future of Arizona (CFA). The program builds upon Kudelski’s Switzerland based IT apprenticeship model, adapting it to the U.S. context and incorporating industry partnerships and post-secondary education institutions. This case-study evaluates the effectiveness of the youth apprenticeship program in developing cybersecurity talent, with a focus on its impact on student outcomes, career readiness, and employer satisfaction. Program outcomes include reduced student debt, increased job readiness for entry-level cybersecurity professionals, and contributing to a more diverse and skilled cybersecurity workforce in Arizona and beyond.

Download this article: CPPJ - V4 N1 Page 13.pdf

Recommended Citation: Wagner, P., Barton, C., (2025). Cybersecurity Apprenticeships: Case-Study of a Four-Year Youth Apprenticeship Program. Cybersecurity Pedagogy and Practice Journal 4(1) pp 13-23. https://doi.org/10.62273/UQKC5113