With Support From UJA-Federation Of New York, The Mayor’s Office For People With Disabilities Launches The First Cyber Security Training For People With Disabilities
The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities has launched the abilITy Cisco Academy powered by NYC: ATWORK at the Institute for Career Development (ICD), proudly funded by the UJA-Federation of New York and J.E. & Z.B. Butler Foundation, with corporate sponsorship by BNP Paribas and Standard Chartered Bank. This program uses a train-to-place model that will prepare individuals with disabilities to secure employment in the cyber security industry. It delivers an industry-recognized Cisco certification program through a curriculum adapted to suit various learning styles.
The abilITy Cisco Academy will provide employment opportunities for New Yorkers with disabilities while also meeting the need for more cyber security professionals.
This program is the first instructor-led Cisco Network Academy exclusively for people with disabilities. It uses a train-to place model with a curriculum customized for different learning styles in an accessible classroom. Combined with soft-skills training and business engagement opportunities, it not only provides the students with a direct connection to employment, but also provides an environment where they can thrive and build a professional network of their peers within the disability community. The first cohort of sixteen students will receive their certifications in February. After completion of the program, students will be placed in internships on track to full-time employment.
NYC: ATWORK plans on replicating this model in other sectors by connecting with businesses to identify where the demand for qualified employees is greatest. The next cohort of the abilITy Cisco Academy at ICD starting will begin recruitment in October.