How can we address the technical skills shortage, and ensure diversity in a future cyber workforce? Innovation Central Canberra, along with partners ICTeach, Virtulane, CISCO Networking Academy, University of Canberra and Country Universities Centre, have come together to try to solve this challenge.
On show at Regional Connect: Showcasing Education and Technology for All was a range of initiatives to bridge the skills gap that build equitable resources for those in regional and remote areas, as well as providing practical real-world experience for University of Canberra students.
Innovation Central Canberra (ICC) is one of six university based innovation centres, sponsored by CISCO, which aim to bring government and industry together to access world-class research opportunities. This was highlighted with the industry partnership between Virtulane, and University of Canberra students Sherri Xue (Education) and Jatin Vohra (Engineering), who collaborated to build a Virtual Reality game to help teach students AI. This game links to the CISCO Networking Academy – AI with Intel Introduction to Generative AI course, and provides a curriculum linked opportunity to engage student in technology skills. The portable VR headsets can be taken anywhere in Australia, and from initial pilots, provide an enjoyable way for rural and regional students to learn.
ICC has also partnered with ICTeach, led by Cameron Beck, a teacher with experience in digital technology and resource development, who has seen a need to develop technology skills from a younger age. ICTeach aims to help students develop these skills, as well as support the teachers and community, who are fundamental in teaching students these skills at a young age. Their school holiday programs, and teacher programs have engaged students from rural and regional areas in cyber skills, allowing career pathways to cyber to start earlier.
All these programs are connected to the CISCO Networking Academy, with Emma Walker – CISCO Networking Academy Lead for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, highlighting the accessibility of these courses. With many free training opportunities available they are a great resource to make your start in learning technology skills.
For the Canberra Cyber ecosystem, this event highlighted the importance of early intervention for developing a skilled cyber workforce. There is a need to develop a diverse skilled workforce by providing students the opportunities to engage with technologies which are relevant for them and their homes. As well as developing creative approaches to addressing the technology skills shortage, in partnership with industry, education and students.
Innovation Central Canberra is providing an awesome opportunity for education and industry to collaborate, and providing university students opportunities for real-world experience. To learn more see: https://icentralau.com.au/canberra/
For those interested in learning cyber skills, Canberra Cyber Hub runs a range of programs to connect you to opportunities. Register for our Skills Activation Campaign to be notified of upcoming skills events and opportunities.
Images courtesy of Innovation Central Canberra
