Information Support & Services in Virginia

Virginia's Cybersecurity pathway prepares students for high-demand careers in information security, network defense, and cyber operations. As home to significant federal cybersecurity operations, defense contractors, and technology companies, Virginia offers exceptional career opportunities for cybersecurity professionals. This specialized program provides comprehensive training in security fundamentals, ethical hacking, incident response, and defensive security operations. The pathway emphasizes hands-on technical skills using virtual labs, security tools, and realistic cyber scenarios. Students learn operating system security, network infrastructure protection, cryptography, security policies, threat intelligence, and incident response. Beginning Fall 2017, Virginia high school students can choose from four specialized cybersecurity pathways: Programming and Software Development, Health and Medical Sciences, STEM/Pre-Engineering Technology, and Network Systems—allowing students to combine cybersecurity with their career interests. Virginia's proximity to federal cybersecurity agencies, defense contractors in Northern Virginia, and growing tech sectors in Richmond and Virginia Beach creates substantial career opportunities. The pathway prepares students for immediate employment in security operations centers, continuation to cybersecurity degree programs at Virginia universities, or pursuit of advanced security certifications commanding premium compensation.

Virginia's Information Technology pathway prepares students for careers in IT support, network administration, systems management, cloud computing, and technology services. This comprehensive program provides foundational training in computer systems, networking, cybersecurity fundamentals, database management, and IT service delivery. As organizations throughout Virginia depend on reliable technology infrastructure—from government contractors in Northern Virginia to healthcare systems to manufacturing operations—skilled IT professionals are essential across all economic sectors. The pathway covers core IT competencies including computer hardware and operating systems, networking protocols and infrastructure, cloud services, virtualization, database fundamentals, and IT customer service. Students develop both technical troubleshooting skills and professional communication abilities essential for effective IT support roles. The curriculum integrates hands-on labs where students configure systems, diagnose problems, manage networks, and implement technology solutions mirroring real-world IT environments in Virginia organizations. Virginia's Information Technology programs prepare students for industry certifications demonstrating technical competence and enhancing employability. Strong partnerships with Virginia businesses, government contractors, and agencies provide work-based learning opportunities and employment pathways. Graduates are prepared for entry-level IT positions including help desk support, IT technician, junior network administrator, and cloud support roles. The pathway also provides foundation for advanced IT specializations and four-year information technology degree programs at Virginia universities.

Virginia's Network Systems pathway develops expertise in network design, installation, configuration, management, and security—preparing students for careers building and maintaining computer networks. Students study networking principles, network protocols, network design, system configuration, network management, cybersecurity, and troubleshooting. They configure networks and practice network administration through hands-on lab experiences. Graduates work as network administrators, network technicians, systems administrators, or network engineers. Every organization requires network professionals. Advanced students pursue networking and IT management programs.