Utica, NY (WIBX) - A new program in cooperation with 5 educational institutions, will provide free Cybersecurity training to Oneida County residents.The announcement was made at Mohawk Valley Community College this morning and Jake Mihevc, Director, Cybersecurity Training, Center for Corporate and Community Education at MVCC said the program has two major components--one is geared towards the unemployed and under-employed, and the other to those who want to enhance their expertise in the field of Cybersecutity.

He said, "We are looking to train the entire community. Whether it's the most basic with people that are just getting started in computers or the most highly trained IT professionals that are parts of the local business community. Regardless of where you start we will enhance your skills or provide you with certifications and the goal is to enhance the entire community."

Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente who spoke during the announcement of the training partnerships said the program is being offered for free--the only requirement is to be an American citizen. Also, previous experience or an advance degree is not needed to apply for the training. Mihevc said the funding comes from the Community Based Job Training Grant awarded by the Department of Labor. He said $1.8 million of the $2.8 million in the grant has been designated to cover the free tuition for Oneida County residents.

The Cybersecurity training programs will be offered at MVCC, HCCC, SUNYIT, SUNY Morrisville, Utica School of Commerce  and the local Work Force Investment Board. For more information contact MVCC and ask for Jake Mihevc. You can also find more information on line at: www.mvcc.edu.

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