IT & Cybersecurity Sector Leader
The Technology Alliance  

Sector Leader Contacts:

Employer-Identified priority occupations for Career Connected Learning:

  •  Computer User Support Specialist/Cloud Support Engineer
  •  Data Center Technician
  •  Software Developer
  •  Cyber / Information Security Engineer
  •  Data Analyst

Career Connected Learning programs needed to address those workforce priorities:

  • Work-based experience integrated into education: Most entry-level tech roles require 1–3 years of experience—something many students lack upon graduation. Employers emphasize the need for capstone projects, hands-on learning, Career Launch internships, and apprenticeships to be embedded in education and training programs.
  • Soft skill development through experience: Employers often rank soft skills—such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving—above technical abilities, which can be trained on the job. These skills can be cultivated through structured work-based learning experiences built into pathway programs.
  • Adapting to the rise of AI: Employers are increasingly seeking candidates with AI-related skills. The sector is focused on understanding how Generative AI is reshaping tech pathways and how to embed relevant AI and career readiness skills into high school and postsecondary programs.

High-impact sector programs supported by CCW and the Sector Leader:

  • Data Center Technician Career Launch: A collaboration among Quincy School District, Big Bend Community College, Microsoft, and Sabey Data Centers, this program prepares students for in-demand careers as data center technicians through technical training, credentials, and hands-on experience. “At Sabey Data Centers, we’re really proud to be involved with the Data Center Technician Launch program… This program offers local students an opportunity to work in an industry where they have a bright future.” – Shaun Devine, Sabey Data Centers
  • MinT career mentorship program: Mentors in Tech (MinT) expands students’ understanding of the tech industry beyond software engineering to include roles such as data analyst, customer success engineer, product manager, security engineer, and more. The program connects Washington CTC students to industry mentors for exposure, guidance, and preparation. “Mentoring these students has been inspiring, highlighting the immense potential in overlooked and underserved communities and underscoring the importance of equitable opportunities provided by programs like MinT.” – Racha Lwali (Amazon) 
  • WSU Data Analytics Career Launch program: This program prepares students for data careers across a wide range of sectors—from agriculture to economics to tech. An active 20-member employer advisory board helps align curriculum with evolving industry needs. Partners like Schweitzer Engineering offer internships, site visits, and staff-led professional development.
  • King-Pierce Regional Network Career Prep Tours and Shadows: This initiative provides students furthest from opportunity with structured exposure to tech careers. Career Tours offer worksite visits to companies, while Career Shadows pair students with tech professionals in roles they’re curious about. Microsoft, Smartsheet, and Amazon are among the program’s employer partners.
  • Computing for All – Software Development Pre-Apprenticeship: Students work in teams on hands-on projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, guided by industry mentors. The program emphasizes both technical development and critical soft skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.

Learn More: Explore detailed recommendations in the 2025 IT & Cybersecurity Sector Strategy (developed by the previous CCW Sector Leader, Computing for All). You can also view a brief sector strategy summary, discover how to get involved as an employer, or contact the Sector Leader directly for more information.