FIU is providing veterans, first responders, and their families with training in cybersecurity through its Veterans and First Responders Training Initiative. The program operates under the Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy (JGI) and is part of the national CyberSkills2Work Program.
The initiative aims to help former military service members, emergency medical technicians, police officers, firefighters, and their dependents develop skills for careers in cybersecurity. This field is growing rapidly and is considered important for national security.
Dr. Brian Fonseca, director of JGI and a former Marine, said: “Veterans and first responders have spent their lives safeguarding others. This unique program gives them the tools to continue that mission in cybersecurity, one of the most critical domains shaping America’s security.”
Data from CyberSeek shows that Florida ranks fifth in the nation for cybersecurity job postings. The number of such jobs in Florida is expected to rise by 32% between 2019 and 2029, which outpaces overall occupational growth statewide.
Participants like Kimberly Wilker, an emergency management coordinator who attended the program in July 2025, described her experience as positive: “The training presented an array of information, including various hands-on learning experiences,” she said. “The support we received from the staff was excellent. In fact, my experiences at FIU have been among the best of my academic career.”
Wilker stated that after completing her training she feels better prepared to pursue new career opportunities.
The CyberSkills2Work Program receives funding from the National Security Agency National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Program and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. It has trained 3,500 professionals nationwide.
Bob Martin, a federal contractor working as a service desk analyst for the Federal Aviation Administration since January 2025, also took part in FIU’s courses such as Foundations of Cybersecurity and Foundations of Digital Forensics. He said: “What I enjoyed most about is that it’s structured with real university rigor. Professors demand top performance and provided us with achievable deadlines. Our teachers and program coordinators were always accessible. This is a great step to take to decide if you want to be an IT professional.”
Mike Asencio, director of the Cyber Policy Program at JGI commented: “As cyber threats grow, so does the need for skilled defenders. Led by a veteran, our JGI team is committed to offering this training so those who have served can continue their legacy by securing our digital future.”
Yacoub Hanna has taught more than 345 participants from 2024-2025 as part of this initiative: “Teaching these courses was more than just an academic experience; it was an honor and privilege to support veterans and first responders who have always protected our communities,” he said. “Now, with training in cybersecurity, digital forensics, and networking, they are prepared to defend the digital world.”
Courses are offered online at no cost to eligible participants who can choose among three short-term pathways focused on foundational knowledge in cybersecurity along with career development support. Graduates receive digital badges or certificates marking their progress.
Shameria Jones—a recently retired Army Master Sergeant—credited FIU’s program with helping her move into cybersecurity after a career focused on human resources: “Attending the classes offered by FIU helped me shift from HR to cybersecurity,” Jones said. “I especially value the hands-on training that was provided to us.”
Program participants say VTI provides a bridge from military or frontline service into civilian careers focused on defending cyberspace.
Wilker summarized her outlook after finishing her coursework: “I am grateful for the opportunity, and I have confidence that as I progress in my learning this will all come together. I will be a strong candidate and future employee.”
