Cybersecurity Training and Work Integrated Learning Program

ICTC's Cybersecurity Training and Work Integrated Learning Program provides participants access to Microsoft Cybersecurity training and certifications as well as experiential learning opportunities to develop technical, foundational, and work-ready skills for cybersecurity roles. 

The rising number of cyber attacks in Canada has left thousands of available cybersecurity positions unfilled. More cybersecurity talent is needed, which will require drawing on wider and more diverse talent pool. A recent study found that only 20% of cybersecurity workers in Canada identify as women, and of those only 25% identify as Black, Indigenous, or as Person of Color (BIPOC).

To address this issue, ICTC in partnership with Microsoft, and a select group of post-secondary institutions is piloting a new initiative aimed at expanding the pool of cybersecurity talent. The program will provide 40 women and non-binary post-secondary education students access to Microsoft training and certification examinations, along with a 16-week paid work-integrated learning placement in the cybersecurity sector. Participants will be matched with mentors and employers in the field, and employers will receive up to $7,000 in wage subsidies.

The training bundle for participants includes the following offerings:

• AZ900 fundamentals in cloud security
• SC900 fundamentals in identity, security, and compliance
• Agile Industry Mindset (AIM) course
• 16-week paid work-integrated learning placement in the cybersecurity sector
• A mentor to support their learning

It is anticipated that this pilot program will enable employers to hire graduates of the program, which will help increase the diversity of the cybersecurity workforce in Canada.

Eligibility criteria:

• You are a woman or non-binary post-secondary education student at Toronto Metropolitan University or the University of Calgary and have not graduated yet.
• You are a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or are a Protected Person conferred by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
• You are legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.