Submitted by Johnston Community College
SMITHFIELD — Thanks to a $565,044 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), Johnston Community College will be able to offer more resources to students in its cybersecurity programs.
The project focuses on integrating employability skills with technical expertise. This award will expand opportunities for JCC students to participate in cybersecurity competitions, workforce training and professional skill development.
“Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in our region and nationwide,” said JCC President Dr. Vern L. Lindquist. “With this NSF support, we can give our students the technical knowledge and workplace skills that employers demand.”
The three-year initiative will engage more than 180 students in hands-on learning experiences. Funding will also provide resources for travel to national competitions, purchase of cutting-edge materials and support for student stipends.
“We are excited to see this project come to life and help our students thrive,” said Daphne Lewis, director of institutional grants at JCC.
The grant aligns with NSF’s Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program, which invests in strengthening the skills of technicians in high-demand fields across the United States.
It also builds on JCC’s growing reputation in cybersecurity education. In 2024, the college received a $645,836 NSF grant to establish a Simulated Cyber Range Training Environment, providing students with realistic, hands-on experiences in responding to cyber threats.
The college is also a proud member of the Carolina Cyber Network, a statewide collaboration dedicated to advancing the cybersecurity workforce and sharing resources across North Carolina.For more information on Johnston Community College’s Information Technology and Cybersecurity Programs, as well as its AI Engineer program in partnership with Wayne Community College, visit: www.johnstoncc.edu.
