Preparing for a Booming Industry
With cybersecurity rapidly emerging as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the U.S., CSU Pueblo is taking active steps to ensure students are ready to meet the increasing demand for skilled professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be at least 17,000 new cybersecurity job openings each year through 2033, as public and private sectors alike work to strengthen their digital defenses against a rising tide of cyber threats.
Pueblo is positioning itself as a key player in this national effort, with Colorado State University Pueblo offering a top-tier cybersecurity program that’s gaining national recognition. The university’s program has been ranked among the best in the nation by the National Cyber League, a respected platform that evaluates students and schools based on real-world cybersecurity skills and challenges.
A Program Rooted in Real-World Readiness
CSU Pueblo’s cybersecurity program goes beyond traditional classroom learning, offering rigorous, hands-on training designed to mimic real-world threat scenarios. Dr. Roberto Mejias, who leads the program, emphasized the school’s strong focus on experiential learning. “Our courses are rigorous, with very demanding hands-on labs,” he explained. “We partner with the NSA, FBI, CIA, and Secret Service to understand the current threat landscape and adapt our curriculum accordingly.”
These collaborations allow students to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and gain insights into the kinds of skills and knowledge needed by top national security and intelligence agencies. The result is a program that not only teaches technical skills but also emphasizes adaptability, critical thinking, and the importance of real-time response in the face of cyberattacks.
In recognition of its excellence, CSU Pueblo has also been designated a Center for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the National Security Agency (NSA)—a title that only a select number of schools across the country hold.
Building a Talent Pipeline for the Future
Each year, approximately 40 students graduate from CSU Pueblo’s cybersecurity program, entering a workforce that is in urgent need of trained professionals. While that number may seem modest, the university’s emphasis on quality over quantity ensures that each graduate is exceptionally well-prepared to step into critical roles in both government and private industry.
The program not only equips students with technical knowledge but also prepares them for immediate employment opportunities in law enforcement, defense, finance, healthcare, and other sectors that depend heavily on cybersecurity expertise.
With cybersecurity threats becoming increasingly sophisticated and widespread, universities like CSU Pueblo are playing a vital role in developing the next generation of cyber defenders. As demand for these professionals continues to surge, institutions that prioritize real-world readiness and agency collaboration will be central to closing the national talent gap and securing the country’s digital infrastructure.
