LITTLE ROCK — Forge Institute has announced that it, in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) Office of Computer Science, is developing computer networking training for high school teachers. The agreement is another step forward to foster and augment the state’s cyber-workforce capabilities.
Understanding that tomorrow’s cyber-vulnerable world requires a workforce with advanced technical skills, Forge Institute and the ADE Office of Computer Science will collaborate on professional development on Computer Networking, featuring hands-on labs and other materials that Arkansas school teachers can bring back to their classrooms.
“Computer networking is a fundamental part of our lives,” explained Scott Anderson, Executive Director at Forge Institute. “Today’s world runs on computers and smart devices; your TV, your car, your watch, and now your coffeemaker are all connected.”
Anthony Owen, State Director of Computer Science Education at ADE, agrees that enhancing teachers’ computer networking skills can only benefit Arkansas’s growing digital-based economy.
“Creating a student body well-versed with computer skills starts with teachers properly trained,” said Owen. “We are happy to supplement the top notch training our Statewide Computer Science Specialist Team has been and will continue providing with the expertise that Forge Institute and its exceptional technical experts can provide. ”
As a result of the training, expected to launch in July, and teachers taking gained knowledge back to their classrooms, ADE expects students to emerge from high school better prepared to obtain high paying tech jobs, which are in great supply as companies nationwide seek cyber talent. A depth of tech-driven companies coupled with Governor Hutchinson’s Computer Science and Computing Initiative makes Arkansas an ideal state to supply the nation with talented cyber staff.