SEED Maryland Launches the SEED Network’s first Cyber Lab for Students
Did you know that the median U.S. salary in cyber security is $95K? And cyber security jobs are in demand. According to UMBC, “There were 11,000+ jobs posted in Maryland alone and over 285,000 nationwide…There are over 209,000 unfilled cybersecurity jobs in the U.S. and 2 million worldwide.”
That’s one of the reasons SEED MD recently launched the InfoArmor Cyber lab. With the generous support of a local Baltimore family who wanted to make an impact on the lives of our students by giving them access and opportunities to this burgeoning field, the InfoArmor Cyber Lab was launched. The goal is to prepare SEED students for internships, advanced study, and ultimately careers in cyber security and other high-tech fields.
In November, we spoke to Andrew Pham, director of the InfoArmor Cyber lab to learn more about SEED MD’s Cyber lab and his exciting new role.
Welcome to the SEED community! Can you tell us a little about your background?
Before joining SEED, I spent ten years with Baltimore City Public Schools most recently building makerspace experiences for students with special needs. I came to SEED to build an excellent Cyber lab where students will be exposed to cutting edge technologies and have opportunities for internships and higher education in the tech field.
What is the goal of SEED MD’s Cyber lab?
Our ultimate goal is to prepare students for careers in cyber security and other high-tech fields. Our students are already using technology for fun. Through our cyber lab, we transition them from “Computers are for playing games and watching videos” to “I can use technology to design my own media. I can create things.”
How does the Cyber lab work?
When we are finished, we will have a fully functioning SOC (Secure Operating Center), makerspace to teach students about 3D Design and Fabrication, Coding, and Robotics. We’re also aiming to partner with other departments to offer AP computer science, Cyber Security, Networking, and other tech-related classes. Finally, we will have after school enrichment programs focused on design, robotics, and cyber security.
Are students interested in the Cyber lab? Which classes are most popular?
Absolutely! We are still developing our curriculum, but 3D fabrication and coding are two classes that students are showing the most interest. Additionally, we will be participating in the CyberPatriot's National Youth Cyber Defense Competition in 2020. Students are excited about that.
Is there anything you would like to add that you want the SEED community to know?
This is a big endeavor that cannot come to fruition without a multitude of work from all our stakeholders. As an example, we recently formed a volunteer Cyber Lab Committee that is comprised of Cyber security professors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders of the industry, that will help guide our programming and foster connections in and around Baltimore. Together, we are building a lab that will be a model for high-tech, urban education and change the trajectory of our students’ lives.
