Through VTI, we are committed to recruiting, training, and placing skilled individuals into critical cybersecurity roles, addressing the increasing demand for cyber professionals and enhancing our national security.

To be eligible for the VTI program, participants must fall into one of the following categories:

• Veterans
• Transitioning military personnel
• First responders
• Military spouses
• Military dependents

Additionally, participants must:

• Be a S. citizen or Permanent Resident
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be available to fully participate in the program and complete all course requirements
• Have some IT or cybersecurity experience (required only for the Digital Forensics pathway)

Prospective applicants should apply through the CyberSkills2Work.org site. Visit CyberSkills2Work.org and click "Apply" in the top right corner to create a learner account. When prompted, be sure to select the Florida International University training pathway(s) you would like to apply for. While you may choose to apply for pathways from other institutions, keep in mind that doing so will reduce the number of FIU applications we can review.

Course Schedule for 2025:

*** ALL APPLICATIONS ARE REVIEWED ON A FIRST-COME BASIS ***

Prospective applicants apply through the CyberSkills2Work.org site.

To succeed in the program, participants should plan to spend approximately 5 hours per week on course modules and assignments.

All selected applicants must agree to the following:

• Commit to participating in the program for its entire duration
• Have access to a working computer and a reliable internet connection.
• Participate fully in all program and course activities, including online lectures, career development, and information sessions.
• Dedicate time to self-study and complete all program requirements, including assigned readings, labs, quizzes, and surveys each week.

To ensure a smooth application process, we encourage all prospective applicants to start gathering the required documents as early as possible.

Required Documents:

• Up-to-date resume
• Unofficial transcripts for your most advanced degree (high school, associate's, or bachelor's)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (e.g., service records, employment verification)

Make sure to have these documents ready before starting your application.

Additional Documentation by Applicant Type:

For First Responders:

Submit one of the following:

• ID Card - Should indicate an eligible position or job title)
• Training Certificates - Must include your full name)
• Signed Verification Letter
  • Must include your full name, position, or job title
  • Must be signed by an administrator on official letterhead
• Paystub
  • Must include your full name, position, or job title
  • Must be dated within the last four years

For Military Service Members:

Submit one of the following:

• Military Pay Stubs (Leave & Earnings Statement, LES)
• Record Briefs (ARB/ERB/ORB for U.S. Army)
• Reserve Activation Orders
• Enlistment Contracts

For Veterans:

Submit one of the following:

• DD-214 Form
• Driver’s License or DMV-Issued State ID with the "VETERAN" endorsement
• Honorable Discharge Certificate
• NGB Form 22
• Reserve Separation Orders
• Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) or Veteran Identification Card (VIC)
• VA Disability Letter

For Military Spouses:

Submit one of the following:

• A copy of your marriage certificate along with your spouse's military orders showing their current duty station
• A copy of your spouse’s Military ID (front and back) that indicates active duty status (please redact any sensitive information)
• A copy of your spouse’s DD-214 if they are a veteran, along with your marriage certificate
• A DEERS Enrollment Confirmation showing you are listed as a military spouse

For Military Dependents:

Submit one of the following:

• Dependent Military ID Card (front and back)
• DD Form 1172-2 (Application for Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment)
• Sponsor’s Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders that list the dependent's name
• Marriage certificate (for military spouses)
• Birth certificate or adoption papers (for children/dependents)
• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) letter (if applicable)
• Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for VA education benefits (e.g., Post-9/11 GI Bill®)

• Offers three short-term, intensive cybersecurity training pathways with career development support at no cost to eligible participants.
• Instructor-led courses taught by FIU faculty, providing foundational cybersecurity knowledge.
• Provides career development support and access to employers through the National Employers Cybersecurity Network.
• Offers digital badges, and certificates to showcase skills and competencies.
• Courses and programs are fully asynchronous and online, ensuring flexible learning. Optional synchronous activities, such as Q&A sessions, may be available and recorded for later viewing.
• You have flexibility within the pathways to pick and choose which courses you'd like to take. If a particular course doesn’t interest you or if you don’t have the time to take it at the moment, you can choose to skip it and return to it later. However, foundational or fundamental courses must be completed to ensure you have the core knowledge required for the program. This structure allows you to progress at your own pace while focusing on the areas that fit your schedule and interests.

1. What if I have no prior experience in IT or cybersecurity?

No prior IT or cybersecurity experience is necessary to join our program! The goal of our program is to help you build the essential skills you need for a career in cybersecurity. The only pathway that requires some prior IT experience is Digital Forensics, as it's our more advanced course. If you don’t have an IT background, we recommend starting with our Foundations of Networking or Foundations of Cyber Security courses to gain the knowledge needed to succeed in Digital Forensics or other specialized areas.

2. How does the job placement support work?

Once you successfully complete any of our courses, you'll be eligible to join our Employers Network. This platform allows you to upload your resume, apply for job postings, and browse available job listings from participating employers. We are committed to supporting your job search and connecting you with opportunities in the field of cybersecurity.

3. Are there networking opportunities with employers?

Yes! We host monthly meetings that provide valuable career information and networking opportunities with top organizations, including Booz Allen Hamilton, CISA, and many more. These sessions are a great chance to learn about industry trends and connect directly with potential employers.

4. Do I have to take all the courses in the pathway?

No, you do not need to take every course in the pathway. Our courses are designed to provide flexibility, allowing you to select the ones that align with your career goals. Whether you're looking for foundational knowledge or advanced skills, you can choose courses that suit your needs.

5. Do you offer certifications?

While we don’t offer official certifications, we do provide Certificates of Completion and digital badges for each course you complete. These can be added to your resume and LinkedIn profile to demonstrate your skills and commitment to cybersecurity education.

Resource Links:

• https://niccs.cisa.gov/workforce-development/nice-framework

The Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity (NICE Framework) is a valuable tool for anyone pursuing a career in cybersecurity because it provides a clear, standardized way to understand the skills, knowledge, and tasks associated with different roles in the field. It organizes cybersecurity work into Work Role Categories and specific Work Roles, helping applicants identify where they might fit best, based on their qualifications. Additionally, the framework's TKS (Tasks, Knowledge, Skills) Statements give detailed insight into what is required for each role, allowing applicants to spot skills gaps and tailor their resumes and training accordingly. By using the Competency Areas outlined in the framework, applicants can focus on the key areas they need to develop to succeed in their chosen career path.

• https://www.cyberseek.org/

CyberSeek is a powerful resource that helps various groups—such as employers, educators, counselors, students, and policymakers—better understand the cybersecurity job market and workforce. For Students they can use the platform to see if cybersecurity careers are in high demand in their area, understand the skills and education required to enter the field, and even learn about salary expectations. CyberSeek is a comprehensive tool that provides valuable data for making informed decisions about cybersecurity education, hiring, and career planning.