Events
Cybersecurity Students Help Small Businesses Strengthen Digital Defenses
MORRISVILLE, N.C. (April 22, 2026) – Wake Tech Cybersecurity students are putting their skills to work to help local small businesses better understand and defend against online threats.
Students pursuing an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Cybersecurity, along with participants in Sentinel hosted a free workshop Wednesday at the college's RTP Campus. Sentinel is a unique cybersecurity boot camp supported by the National Science Foundation that provides paid training, industry mentorship and pathways to professional certification.
Students provided an overview of cybersecurity fundamentals; shared simple, practical steps businesses can take to strengthen their defenses; and conducted free, on‑the‑spot cyber risk assessments tailored to each participant's specific needs.
"Easy‑to‑implement strategies can make a real difference in improving cybersecurity readiness," said Joy McKenzie, one of the students who helped host the workshop. "This is a new passion for me, and it was exciting to share what I've learned in the classroom in a way that directly helps others."
McKenzie, who is pivoting careers after losing her job in customer service, said she has always been drawn to technology and found Wake Tech's Cybersecurity program to be an ideal fit.
"My classes are online, and they're very affordable," she said. "Wake Tech has made it possible for me to change careers and pursue something I truly enjoy."
The hands‑on experience gave students a valuable opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real‑world setting while addressing a critical need in the local business community.
"Small businesses are especially vulnerable to cyber attacks and often lack the staff or expertise to address growing risks," said Anthony Lucas, Cybersecurity department head at Wake Tech. "This workshop reflects our commitment to workforce development and community engagement, preparing students for high‑demand careers while helping strengthen the region's small-business ecosystem."
Information technology education at Wake Tech is aligned with the needs of business and industry. Degree, diploma and certificate programs prepare students to compete in the job market and arm them with skills and credentials that are in the highest demand.
