Programs aim to help young women explore cyber industry

The two programs — Girls Go CyberStart and Cyber FastTrack — are announced by Gov. Brian Kemp on Monday.

High school girls and college students will now be able to develop their skills and explore careers in the cyber industry through the Girls Go CyberStart and Cyber FastTrack programs.

On Monday, Gov. Brian Kemp announced the state’s partnership with the SANS Institute to launch the programs.

“Georgia is fast becoming the Cyber Capital of the World, so we must have a workforce ready to take on the jobs of the 21st century,” Kemp said. “Girls Go CyberStart encourages young women to get involved in a growing industry in our state, and I am excited to see this great partnership provide opportunities to these hardworking Georgians.”

Open to female high school students, Girls Go CyberStart is a free online game which encourages participants to explore their interests in cyber studies, learn core cyber security skills and build confidence in problemsolving. The Cyber FastTrack program is open to all college students and students and offers access to a highly interactive online course and necessary tools to develop their cyber skills.

“This is a great opportunity for students in Georgia, and I appreciate Governor Kemp’s support for the cyber industry in our state,” said Rep. Jodi Lott, R- Evans. “After the recent opening of the Georgia Cyber Center in Augusta, these programs offer a clear next step in ensur- ing Georgia’s leadership in the cyber industry for years to come.”

Registration for Girls Go CyberStart started Monday and runs to March 20, when the event begins. For Cyber FastTrack, college students can also register now and start playing April 5. Complete details may be found at girlsgocyberstart.org and cyber-fasttrack.org.

“The nation desperately needs more highlyskilled cyber profession- als, and we have evidence that CyberStart improves the quality and preparation of people entering the cybersecurity industry, a field in which women are significantly under-represented,” said SANS Director of Research Alan Paller. “By opening these programs to thousands of girls in high school and college, we hope to help the nation identify the next generation of talented young people who will excel in this critical field.”