Center for Cybersecurity
The Center for Cybersecurity at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) is a recognized hub for cybersecurity education and research excellence. Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (NCAE-CDE) by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the center reflects CCAC’s commitment to preparing students to meet the growing demands of the cybersecurity workforce.
Hosted by the Department of Computer and Information Systems, the Center for Cybersecurity brings together faculty expertise across multiple disciplines to advance the mission of cybersecurity education, research, and community engagement. The center supports students, faculty, and industry partners by providing guidance, research opportunities, and space to work together on cybersecurity challenges.
The center offers courses and hands-on learning to help student protect and defend critical systems from cyber threats. In addition, the center fosters partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and academic institutions, creating a dynamic environment for collaboration and outreach.
For more information, contact Dr. Matthew Kisow mkisow@ccac.edu.
HACKING4HUMANITY
Online hate is on the rise, leading to real-world devastating effects on individuals and communities around the world.
Join students from Carnegie Mellon, Duquesne, Pitt, and other Pittsburgh colleges at a hackathon to develop new technology and policy solutions that reduce online hate.
Cybersecurity Programs
The Cybersecurity and IT Support Specialist, A.S. (790) program provides students with specific technical competencies for entry-level employment opportunities as an Information Technology (IT) support specialist. Various job titles in the field include computer user support specialist, computer network support specialist, and computer security specialist.
Acceptable Use Policy and Privacy Statement
At the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) Center for Cybersecurity, we are committed to fostering an environment that upholds the principles of academic integrity, responsible use of technology, and respect for individual privacy. Our Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) outlines the standards and expectations for CCAC's cybersecurity resources, ensuring that all users contribute to a secure and ethical learning environment.
The CCAC Center for Cybersecurity also prioritizes the protection of personal information. Our Privacy Statement details the measures we take to safeguard data collected during participation in center activities, adhering to institutional policies and best practices in cybersecurity.
By using the CCAC Center for Cybersecurity's tools, labs, and resources, users agree to follow the Acceptable Use Policy and protect confidential information. For more information, please refer to our complete AUP and Privacy Statement.
Cybersecurity Resources
At CCAC, the cybersecurity program uses the NICE Challenge Webportal to give students hands-on scenarios aligned with National Cybersecurity Workforce Framework job roles. This resource enhances their skills through immersive, practical experiences in a controlled and secure environment.
Mr. Adam Chapin, Former CCAC Student
Dr. Chester Thompson, Associate Dean of Computer Information Technology at CCAC
Dr. David Scibelli, Winthrop University
Mr. Gene Leyzarovich, Founder of JetStor
Jackie Deloplaine, Retail & Hospitality ISAC
Prof. James Winyard, CIT Department Head
Mr. Kenneth Palmer, NSABP Foundation, Inc.
Mr. Laurence Luther, Former CCAC Student
Dr. Ping Wang, Robert Morris University
Reis Reis, CCAC Faculty
Dr. Lee Branstetter, Carnegie Mellon University
Mr. Robert Kaminski, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
CAE Community
Government Agencies & Services
- CISA (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency)
- NICE (National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education)
- NICCS (National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies)
- NIETA (National IA Education & Training Programs)
- NIST Computer Security Resource Center
- NSA (National Security Agency) Cybersecurity
- NSF (National Science Foundation) Cybersecurity
Competitions and Camps
Cybersecurity in the News