Spotlight on February: Elevate Your Career with Our Cybersecurity & Information Technology Program!

The Columbiana County Career and Technical Center (CCCTC) has been shaping the future for students in Columbiana County since 1977. During the pandemic, we switched things up and partnered with local newspapers to keep the community informed about our programs through monthly articles.

Now that we’ve settled into a new routine, we’ve made some exciting changes over the past four years. The center has undergone significant renovations to better match industry needs, giving students access to the latest tools and technologies that prepare them for the workforce.

We’ve also introduced a new program and welcomed fresh instructors. With staff retiring, new faces bring new energy, and we aim to showcase these changes throughout the school year to keep the community in the loop about career and technical education.

Sophomores interested in joining for the 2025-26 school year can visit our website and complete the enrollment application, which is now available.

For questions, reach out to Sue Allison, our guidance administrator, at (330) 424-9561 ext. 118 or sue.allison@ccctc.k12.oh.us.

This February, we’re shining a light on the Cybersecurity & Information Technology Program (CIT). We’ve updated the program’s name and curriculum, along with a new lab space. This program used to be called the Information Technology Academy, reflecting the growing importance of cybersecurity in every business.

Another highlight is our new instructor, Mr. Jeffrey Williams. With rich experience and his third year with us, he brings valuable insights to the program.

Benefits of Being a Student in the Program

Students in the CIT program gain hands-on experience using the latest technology. They learn about computer hardware, networking, cybersecurity, programming, and automation. The lab environment here is unique and prepares them for real-world jobs.

Students work collaboratively, mimicking what they’ll encounter in the workplace. This experience helps them whether they choose college or jump directly into a job after graduation.

The curriculum includes industry-recognized certifications and opportunities to engage in competitions. Graduates leave with not only technical skills but also crucial soft skills like teamwork and communication.

Credentials and Articulation Agreements

Our program equips students for the workforce and higher education. Every student in the CIT program earns OSHA-10 certification. They can also achieve credentials like CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+), CompTIA Cloud+, and Google IT Support Professional Certificate.

Outstanding students can earn additional certifications like the Python Programming Certification and Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. This year, we established an articulation agreement with The University of Akron, allowing students to gain college credit for certain courses.

Students are invited to earn dual enrollment credit through varied programs, which means they can begin college with some coursework already completed.

Student Spotlight

Arlo Bell, a senior from Crestview Local High School, stands out in our CIT program. He excels in technical math, winning local SkillsUSA competitions and advancing to regionals and state. His current capstone project involves creating a video game using Python.

Arlo is also a natural leader, serving as the president of the local SkillsUSA chapter, demonstrating his initiative and passion for technology.

Instructor Spotlight

Mr. Jeffrey Williams, our CIT instructor, grew up in Columbiana and has over a decade of IT experience. He transitioned to teaching to give back to his community, inspired by his father’s dedication to education. His goal is to equip students with lifelong skills that will help them succeed.

Program Benefits for Local Industry

Graduates leave the CIT program ready for the job market with practical, job-ready skills. They’re trained in troubleshooting, programming, and cybersecurity. This training prepares them for careers as IT technicians or network administrators, benefiting local businesses by providing skilled workers from day one.