Jason Hughes, a resident of Chatham, Virginia, has successfully completed the rigorous 16-week Cybersecurity Training at Danville Community College (DCC). Following this achievement, Jason has accepted a position as an Information Technology (IT) Support Technician with Pittsylvania County Schools.
Jason's journey to his new role is both inspiring and transformative. Growing up in Ringgold, Virginia, until 2002, Jason moved to Chatham, where he spent over 20 years working in an insurance office. After experiencing a short-term disability that left him out of work, Jason sought a new career path and enrolled in the cybersecurity training program at DCC.
Reflecting on his experience, Jason shared, "My favorite part of the Cybersecurity program was meeting new people who are interested in the same career field as me. The most challenging part was learning the information needed to pass the industry certification exams. However, the program helped me gain the specialized knowledge and confidence to work in the IT field."
Jason is enthusiastic about the future of cybersecurity education and encourages others to pursue this path. "Now is a great time to learn and go into the cybersecurity field. There are so many educational and career opportunities offered if you're willing to accept the challenge of working hard to learn and grow in this profession," he said.
Danville Community College's cybersecurity program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. The program's comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training prepare graduates for a variety of industry certifications and career opportunities.
“We're incredibly proud of Jason Hughes and his accomplishment,” said Dr. Jerry Wallace, President of Danville Community College. "His story is a textbook example of the impact that short-term training can have on individuals in our community and on our regional workforce as a whole."
The 16-week Cybersecurity Training Program is made available through a partnership with the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce and is funded by the Department of Labor.
"The Danville Pittslyvania Chamber of Commerce is honored to partner with Danville Community College to develop, implement, and provide cybersecurity training to local learners," said Delilah White, Special Programs Coordinator for the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce. "Our mutual goals are to develop a thriving cybersecurity workforce and industry in our region and to provide future-forward, sustainable employment opportunities for our community members," White continued. "Jason's story is what this program is about - transforming lives! Whether you are facing a career transition or need to learn new technology skills, our 16-week Cybersecurity Training Program is for you. We have the resources and support to help you succeed."
Jason's new role as an IT Support Technician at Pittsylvania County Schools marks a significant milestone in his career, where he will contribute to the technological advancement and cybersecurity efforts of the school district.
"We are thrilled to have Jason Hughes join our team," said Emily Reynolds, Director of Information Technology for Pittsylvania County Schools. "His solid foundation in cybersecurity underscores the effectiveness of programs like the one at Danville Community College in preparing professionals for critical roles in educational IT security."
Now, as Hughes moves into a new chapter in his career, he is equipped to tackle the challenges ahead.
“Changing your career trajectory and your life can be done in 16 weeks at Danville Community College,” said Hughes. “I am grateful that this opportunity is available, affordable, and accessible in our community.”
For more information about Danville Community College's cybersecurity program or to get enrolled, contact Paul Burnette at paul.burnette@danville.edu or 434-797-8572.
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