Four Pickens Tech Cyber Students Shine Bright at PSA TEC 2025

When you stepped onto the bustling floor at PSA TEC 2025, it was easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer array of technology demonstrations, training sessions and panel discussions. Amid this vibrant environment, four students from Pickens Technical College, in Aurora, Colo., managed to stand out — not just because they were among the youngest attendees but also because of the passion and potential they brought with them.

The Next Generation of Security Pros

The following list of Cyber Technician Program students, each one with distinct ambitions, represents the next generation of security professionals:

• Nico Gable (Program: Cyber Technician; Desired Roles: Cybersecurity and Networking – Infrastructure);
• Mohammed Gelan (Program: Cyber Technician; Desired Roles: Network Admin and Cybersecurity / Government Infrastructure);
• Miguel Lobatos (Program: Cyber Technician; Desired Roles: Cybersecurity and Networking / Computer Forensics); and
• Alberto Grimm (Program: Cyber Technician; Desired Roles: Network Engineer / AI Automation).

Their journey to PSA TEC was no accident; it resulted from strategic teamwork between PSA, SIA and dedicated educators determined to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

The Force Behind Their Attendance

This unique opportunity took shape when Dr. Elli Reges, SIA’s director of learning and development, introduced the PSA Education Team and Pickens Technical College’s career placement coordinator, Shalon Rucker.

This introduction paved the way for a partnership that brought those four students to PSA TEC. As a result, they gained access to specialized training sessions, panel discussions and valuable networking events. In short, their trip gave these aspiring security professionals a concrete look at what the industry has to offer.

According to Rucker, “Our students are eager to explore careers in the security industry, and there’s no better way to fuel that interest than by bringing them face to face with real-world expertise. They truly represent the future our industry needs.”

Pickens Technical College provides more than 28 certificate programs, and it’s best known for its emphasis on hands-on, career-focused training.

Its Cyber Technician Program goes beyond textbooks, ensuring that graduates have up-to-date skills in cybersecurity, networking and infrastructure — all areas in which we urgently need support in an era of evolving threats and rapid technological change.

Pickens Technical College Students at PSA TEC Panels

The timing of the Pickens Tech students’ attendance could not have been better. While at PSA TEC 2025, they witnessed professionals and industry leaders come together for a panel entitled, “Combating Labor Shortages to Recruit and Engage New Talent.” Moderated by Mary O’Sullivan, manager of learning and development at PSA Security Network, the panel featured the following participants:

• Lori Hudnall, vice president, human resources, Sage Integration
• Chris Staniforth, president, ALConsulting
• Jessica Rose, assistant director, employer partnerships, University of Denver

The panel discussion focused on attracting, selecting and engaging the next generation of security professionals who speak to the needs of the entire industry.

By highlighting practical strategies, real-world success stories and proven career pathways, the panel reinforced how vital it is for security organizations to forge stronger connections with emerging talent so they can remain robust and well prepared for future challenges.

The Security Industry Career Guide

SIA and PSA’s Security Industry Career Guide offers newcomers a clear view of a variety of security roles. Featuring career roadmaps, real-life examples and essential skills, it illustrates how the field encompasses cyber forensics, systems integration and more.

This helps future professionals match their interests to pressing industry demands and opportunities.

Similarly, FAST — a collaboration between SIA and the ESA — supports job seekers and employers with a specialized job board, free résumé reviews and networking events. By streamlining the hiring process, FAST connects skilled candidates to the right security positions in a rapidly evolving sector.

Next Steps: The Ambassador Program

The Security Industry Career Guide provides clarity, and FAST offers direct career support, but the next phase focuses on implementing the Ambassador Program. This grassroots initiative encourages passionate professionals — whether they are integrators, consultants, HR managers or others — to advocate for security careers within their communities.

Moreover, connecting Ambassadors across the U.S. will further drive talent engagement to the industry.

Ambassadors receive the following:

1. Curated lists of schools and career service contacts throughout the U.S.
2. Readymade templates to reach out to colleges, universities and technical institutions.

If you’re eager to help shape the next generation of security professionals, sign up for the Ambassador Program and start making a difference in your community today!

Looking Ahead for Pickens Technical College Students

For Nico, Mohammed, Miguel and Alberto, attending PSA TEC 2025 was far more than a school excursion; it was a genuine milestone. Equipped with new knowledge and essential contacts, they returned to Pickens Tech ready to refine the skills that will soon make them sought-after professionals in a field hungry for fresh talent.

Their experience demonstrates how collaboration between education and industry can address labor shortages while generating excitement within and about this sector.

By leveraging the Career Guide, FAST and the Ambassador Program, we can foster a thriving workforce ready to meet the security challenges of tomorrow.

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