Held at Fayetteville Technical Community College and cohosted by the Carolina Cyber Network, the event allowed Coker to meet with students, educators, employers, veterans, military-connected families, and local leaders to learn about growing the nation’s cyber workforce.

Coker spoke to those in attendance about the reliance on technology that the world is experiencing today. “With this connectivity comes the threat of attack on that digital foundation. There’s a lot we need to do—and are doing— to better protect our nation and its critical infrastructure in cyberspace,” said Coker.

In North Carolina, there are over 18,000 open jobs in cybersecurity, according to Coker. “And, from what I’ve seen today, I can confidently say that North Carolina has the talent and the desire to serve. We must ensure that more of you have the training, encouragement, and pathway to these jobs,” he said.

Last fall, the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security designated WCC as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense for its Cybersecurity program. As part of the Carolina Cyber Network, WCC partners with other two- and four-year colleges to share resources and best practices in the cybersecurity field.

“I was honored to meet Director Coker and share with him the important role Wayne Community College plays in meeting the demand for cybersecurity professions,” said Pfeiffer. “In addition, I addressed the needs colleges have to ensure the sustainability of our programs.”