Introducing Northern New Mexico College’s Center for Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Northern New Mexico College (NNMC) is proud to announce the establishment of the Center for Information Technology and Cybersecurity, a major step forward in our commitment to providing advanced educational opportunities in a rapidly growing field. This new center, developed in collaboration with Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), will offer state-of-the-art training in cybersecurity, equipping students with the skills needed to protect against modern cyber threats.
Set to begin in fall 2025, NNMC’s cybersecurity program will offer a four-year degree program along with professional development opportunities, addressing a growing need for skilled cybersecurity professionals in New Mexico and beyond. The center will provide hands-on training in safeguarding organizations from cyber threats and will prepare students for a wide range of roles, including forensic analysts, information security engineers, and more.
Students like Jesse Menendez, currently in his final year of the Information Engineering Technology program, are already seeing the benefits of NNMC’s focus on cybersecurity. In his advanced cybersecurity class, Jesse worked on decrypting a manual cipher, a reminder of how important data protection is in today's digital world. "Securing information is crucial," says Jesse, who balances his studies with a job at LANL, where he puts what he learns directly into practice.
As Professor Michael Gideon, who leads the cybersecurity courses at Northern, explains, “The idea is to indoctrinate them into a mindset of security from A to Z. We don’t know what we don’t know until someone finds a vulnerability to exploit. So the idea is to let them see the need.” Gideon’s class focuses on both theoretical understanding and practical application, such as manually encrypting and deciphering messages, helping students develop a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles and the importance of staying ahead of potential threats.
Building Partnerships for Local Impact
This new center will not only enhance educational opportunities but will also help address the growing demand for skilled workers in the cybersecurity field. By partnering with LANL and the NNSA, NNMC is creating a pipeline of qualified professionals who will be prepared to take on roles both locally and nationally.
"New Mexico is at the forefront of innovation, and this partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory positions our students to play a vital role in securing the future of our country," said Hector Balderas, NNMC President. President Balderas emphasized the importance of this new initiative, stating, “This partnership strengthens our commitment to economic development and workforce preparedness in Northern New Mexico. Our students will have the opportunity to gain specialized skills that are in high demand, positioning them for success in high-paying cybersecurity careers.”
Thanks to a $376,675 grant from the NNSA, the center will fund a faculty director position, upgrade hardware and software, and support outreach activities designed to attract more students to the cybersecurity field. The program’s unique focus on cybersecurity training is expected to launch in fall 2025, with courses tailored to meet industry needs.
A Response to National and Local Cybersecurity Needs
The demand for cybersecurity professionals has never been greater. Recent cyberattacks on institutions like New Mexico Highlands University and major healthcare systems have underscored the urgent need for experts in the field. NNMC’s cybersecurity program is designed to meet this demand head-on by offering rigorous, practical training that prepares students to tackle real-world challenges.
Through this initiative, NNMC aims to contribute to the growing cybersecurity workforce in New Mexico, a state that already hosts leading programs like the New Mexico Cybersecurity Center of Excellence at New Mexico Tech. NNMC’s center will add another crucial layer to the state’s efforts to combat cyber threats while creating job opportunities for local talent.
A Bright Future for Cybersecurity Students
As NNMC continues to evolve and expand its offerings, the new Center for Information Technology and Cybersecurity stands as a key part of our mission to foster growth and opportunity for our students. For many, like Andrew Garcia, a current student balancing his studies with a job at LANL, this center represents an opportunity to not only enhance their skills but also build a career in a critical and ever-changing field. “The knowledge I’m gaining here applies directly to my job,” Andrew shares. “Cybersecurity is always evolving, so staying up to date with the latest skills is essential.”
Students at NNMC will not only gain technical skills but will also learn the importance of cybersecurity in protecting businesses, government institutions, and critical infrastructure from cyberattacks. With median salaries for cybersecurity professionals averaging around $98,000, the program offers a promising pathway for students seeking lucrative and impactful careers.As New Mexico continues to position itself as a leader in cybersecurity, NNMC’s Center for Information Technology and Cybersecurity will play a vital role in developing a skilled workforce that can meet the challenges of the future. This program will create new educational and career opportunities while addressing the increasing complexity of cyber threats facing both public and private sectors.
NNMC’s commitment to preparing students for success in the cybersecurity industry will not only benefit our students but also contribute to New Mexico’s growing tech sector, helping ensure that local industries and government agencies are staffed with highly trained professionals capable of defending against cyber threats. As we look toward the future, NNMC is excited to welcome the next generation of cybersecurity experts. For those interested in joining this innovative program, stay tuned for more information on enrollment and course offerings as we move closer to fall 2025. Together, we’re shaping the future of cybersecurity in New Mexico and beyond.
For more information on how to enroll in NNMC’s cybersecurity program or to learn about upcoming opportunities, please contact the college’s admissions office or visit our website. Join us in securing the future, one student at a time.