November 13, 2014
Manitoba Government Announces State-of-the-art Data Centre for High School Information Technology Programs
– – –Expanded Cyber Security Academy at Sisler High School will Prepare Students for In-demand Jobs: Premier Selinger
The Manitoba government is investing in technical training opportunities in network and cyber security for students at Sisler High School, Premier Greg Selinger announced today.
“Information and technology, networking and cyber security jobs are in high demand across the province and we want to help young Manitobans get a head start on good paying jobs while still in high school,” said Premier Selinger. “Expanding Sisler’s cyber security academy will give more students some of the most advanced learning opportunities in Canada. It will provide them with advanced placement at universities and colleges, and give them the skills and knowledge they need to access real-world job experience.”
The Manitoba government is investing $300,000 to upgrade classrooms and install new equipment to create a network and cyber security virtual data centre.
“These investments will ensure students will be learning on the most advanced equipment in Canada and are able to complete courses through the cyber security virtual centre with hands-on, real-life experience with IT security,” said Premier Selinger.
The school is working closely with employers and leading companies linking students to paid internships, work experience and jobs following their high school graduation, the premier said. Companies include Complex Games, MTS, EPIC, Seccuris and Octipi Managed Services.
“The need for skilled individuals in information security will continue to grow over the next decade,” said Michael Legary, founder and chief strategy officer, Seccuris. “This announcement is a great first step in ensuring Manitoba will be on the forefront of the information economies driving new employment in the province.”
Students will also have access to dual credits through partnerships with Red River College and the University of Winnipeg for advanced placement and post-secondary credits, fast tracking them into further education.
“Besides enhancing and forging new frontiers for our students, the funding provides us with the capability of involving other jurisdictions right across Manitoba,” said George Heshka, principal, Sisler High School.
Sisler High School’s network and cyber security academy is a leader in cyber security education in Canada, Heshka said, adding that thanks to one of the most specialized information technology high school programs in Canada, Sisler’s students are competing in cyber security events and winning national and international awards.
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