Baylor-led Central Texas Cyber Hub Launches K-12 Cyber Security Pathways Program - Baylor University

Baylor-led Central Texas Cyber Hub Launches K-12 Cyber Security Pathways Program Innovative initiative aims to build a robust cybersecurity workforce pipeline starting in high schools, addressing critical national and statewide talent shortages BY LORI FOGLEMAN, MEDIA & PUBLIC RELATIONS DECEMBER 17, 2025 (Credit: AnnaStills / Collection: iStock / Getty Images Plus) Media Contact: Lori Fogleman, 254-709-5959 Follow us: @BaylorUMedia on X and LinkedIn Baylor University, leading the collaborative Central Texas Cyber Hub (CTCH), today announced the launch of the K-12 Cyber Security Pathways Program (K12 CSPP), a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip high school students with essential cybersecurity skills for immediate workforce entry or advanced education. The program kicked off Dec. 16 with an inaugural meeting of the first cohort of eight participating Central Texas school districts that will begin student coursework fall 2026: Bosqueville ISD Chilton ISD Hubbard ISD Marlin ISD McGregor ISD Moody ISD Morgan ISD West ISD Curriculum planning, student registration/enrollment and instructor training academies will occur through spring and summer 2026, followed by the first class of ninth grade students beginning the program in the fall. The program will continue to expand its reach by adding more school districts each year through an open application available at the beginning of the school year. Addressing the critical cyber skills gap The K12 CSPP is one of the first full programs launched by the CTCH, with a focus on establishing a secondary-education cybersecurity pathway that prepares students for college degrees or direct entry into the workforce. With approximately 514,000 open cybersecurity positions nationwide and more than 42,000 in Texas alone according to Cyberseek.org, the program addresses a critical and urgent national skills gap. CTCH aspires to become the leading provider of trained cyber workforce talent across the United States, emphasizing that a strong foundation begins in high school. “The launch of the K-12 Cyber Security Pathways Program represents a pivotal step in building a sustainable talent pipeline that starts early and empowers our region’s high school students for industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications, enabling them to launch careers post-graduation or seamlessly transition to higher education," said David Grover, senior director of cyber initiatives in Baylor’s Office of Innovation and Economic Development. "We’re not just educating students; we're creating opportunities that strengthen our communities and meet the growing demands of the cybersecurity industry.” Key benefits Key benefits of the K12 CSPP include: Community Support and Educational Commitment: Strengthening Central Texas through collaborative efforts that prioritize local development. STEAM-Focused Learning Opportunities: Integrating science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics to inspire innovative thinking. Industry Partners Investing in Communities: Direct involvement from partners ensures real-world relevance and support. No-Cost Solution for Participating School Districts: Removing financial barriers to make high-quality cybersecurity education accessible. The program's curriculum consists of five specialized cybersecurity courses aligned with an approved Texas Education Agency (TEA) career pathway. Upon completion, students will earn valuable industry certifications, including CompTIA Tech+, CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+. These credentials are highly regarded by employers, providing graduates with a competitive edge for entry-level roles while also serving as a steppingstone to advanced studies. The Central Texas Cyber Hub serves as a collaborative consortium uniting industry, academia and government entities to cultivate a thriving regional cybersecurity community. With a mission to position Central Texas as a premier national center of excellence in cybersecurity education and innovation, CTCH works to address urgent workforce demands through a spectrum of offerings, including non-degree training programs, stackable skill certifications, comprehensive degree pathways tailored for industry and government needs and the promotion of world-class cyber research. By fostering continuous learning and hands-on experience, CTCH inspires diverse talent pools – ranging from young students to veterans – to pursue rewarding careers in cybersecurity. Key academic, industry partners Key partners serving alongside Baylor in the CTCH include academic institutions Central Texas College in Killeen and McLennan Community College in Waco, as well as industry partners Scinary Cybersecurity, CyberWorkforce and Education Service Center Region 12. Together with participating ISDs, these collaborative academic and industry alliances underscore CTCH’s commitment to a unified approach in advancing cybersecurity education and workforce development. “Central Texas College is proud to partner with Baylor University through the Central Texas Cyber Hub to help students see a future in cybersecurity early in their high school learning experience,” said Tamara Clunis, Ph.D., Chancellor, for Instruction and Workforce Education at Central Texas College. “Through this partnership, CTC creates practical pathways into a field with high demand and urgent talent needs. Our goal is to ensure students in our partner ISDs graduate with industry-recognized credentials and clear next steps toward meaningful careers in cybersecurity.” ABOUT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY Baylor University is a private Christian University and a nationally ranked Research 1 institution. The University provides a vibrant campus community for 20,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating University in Texas. Located in Waco, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 12 nationally recognized academic divisions. Learn more about Baylor University at www.baylor.edu.