Jared Polis champions new cybersecurity career paths for high schoolers

In the United States, Governor Jared Polis visited Adams 12 High School on Monday to engage with students participating in a newly established cybersecurity career pathway. This initiative is part of the FutureForward at Bollman Tech program, which aims to equip high school students with concrete skills tailored for careers in technology. During his visit, Polis toured the innovation center, where he highlighted how the program serves as a bridge for students to transition into either higher education or the workforce. Students enrolled can earn college credits applicable at both two- and four-year institutions, leading to potential cost and time savings in their post-secondary education. Additionally, some students are acquiring professional certifications, enabling them to secure high-paying jobs immediately upon graduation. "So some are going to college, and many graduate with a semester or a year of college credit already done, shortening the time and the cost of college. Others graduate with a skill certification and enter the workforce. Some of them are getting $70,000 to $80,000 jobs right out of high school," said Governor Polis, underscoring the program's impact on shaping students' futures. Besides cybersecurity, FutureForward offers constructive career options in nursing, welding, graphic design, and engineering, broadening the scope of opportunities for high schoolers.