The Role of Industry Partnerships and Collaborations in Information Technology Education

Abstract

Information technology education is in high demand, including a significant and fast-growing workforce shortage of and demand for well trained and qualified cybersecurity professionals. Postsecondary education institutions are expected to play a key role in relieving the shortage and meeting the workforce demand. The information technology and cybersecurity industry and professional task areas need comprehensive academic, technical and professional competencies and knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) that may not be adequately addressed by the traditional college classroom activities. This study proposes close collaborations and partnerships between information technology (IT) education providers, programs and industry organizations to improve cyber defense education and serve the needs of the industry. There could be various types of collaborations between the industry and education providers, and this research proposes a taxonomy of activities for collaborations. The proposition in this study is based on an established cybersecurity industry competency model with multiple tiers of competencies expected for the cybersecurity workforce. This research study uses sample case discussions of industry collaborations and partnerships at a selected cyber defense education program from a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE) designated by the United States National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security. Experienced IT and cybersecurity industry professionals and educators participate in this study and share their experiences and insights on the benefits, challenges and strategies for establishing and maintaining partnerships and collaborations between higher education and cybersecurity industry organizations.