Chandler Unified launches first high school cybersecurity clinic with University of Arizona

Cybersecurity education is making waves in the Chandler Unified School District, as students dive into a groundbreaking Google cybersecurity clinic in partnership with the University of Arizona. This initiative marks the first high school clinic of its kind in the nation, aiming to equip students with essential skills for a rapidly growing industry.

Sophomore Donovan, who aspires to a career in cybersecurity, emphasized the field's critical importance, stating, "The importance of it should not be underestimated within society." Alongside fellow students, he is part of a group of about a hundred participants exploring various aspects of cybersecurity, from programming to networking. Many students, like Donovan, are discovering new interests beyond traditional career paths.

The clinic operates outside regular class hours, allowing students to engage in hands-on learning that bridges theory and practice. As they complete the program, participants will gain a competitive edge in a field that is currently facing a significant workforce shortage—estimated at several hundred thousand positions nationwide.

"This is not just a certificate," explained a program representative. "It's education, experiential learning, and making the book tangible." The Chandler Unified School District's commitment to cybersecurity education not only prepares students for future careers but also addresses a pressing national security concern.