At IBSS, we believe that opportunity can be a turning point. Through our Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Program, we help make that turning point possible.

On this National Apprenticeship Day, we’re proud to spotlight our commitment to workforce development and highlight the incredible individuals who have grown through our program. One of them is Abrham Wondimu, a former cybersecurity apprentice who now serves as a Help Desk Specialist at IBSS.

HERO: Helping Educate to Realize Opportunities

The IBSS Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Program, known as HERO, is more than a skills training initiative – it’s a bridge to a new future. As a Maryland-registered program, HERO offers hands-on, content-based training to individuals passionate about launching a career in cybersecurity, regardless of their previous experience or background.

Apprentices train in a wide range of cybersecurity disciplines from cloud security and risk assessment to firewalls and zero trust. They also earn foundational and advanced certifications like CompTIA Network+, Security+, CySA+, Linux+, and PenTest+, with options to pursue further credentials such as AWS, CISSP, and Splunk. Alongside technical training, we offer professional development in soft skills, technical writing, resume support, and even public speaking through Toastmasters.

Our goal? To help apprentices become job-ready cybersecurity professionals prepared to take on roles in engineering, governance and compliance, or security operations.

A Journey from Curiosity to Career: Meet Abrham Wondimu

For Abrham, the path to cybersecurity began with a nudge from a friend. “I started with the CompTIA Network+ certification, which gave me a solid foundation in networking,” he says. “The more I explored, the more I realized how important and exciting this field is.”

During his time in the apprenticeship, Abrham gained both technical skills and a deeper understanding of the field’s real-world importance. “I’ve learned that cybersecurity is truly the backbone of the digital world. Everything we rely on, from communication, finance, even infrastructure, depends on secure systems. That really changed how I see technology.”

Now working full-time at IBSS, Abrham reflects on his journey with encouragement for others: “Don’t be afraid to apply, even if you feel like you don’t know everything yet. Apprenticeships are for learning. Show your passion and willingness to grow.”

Creating Access, Building Careers

Our Cybersecurity Apprenticeship program was designed with the community in mind. We want to help people gain access to education, job opportunities, and a sustainable career in a growing industry. Cybersecurity is critical to our future, and we’re proud to be training the professionals who will help protect it.

If you are interested in starting a career in cybersecurity, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about us. You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need the drive to grow.