About the Program
A Practical Path Into Cybersecurity
The Government of Alberta launched the Work Experience Program in October 2020 in partnership with Advanced Education and Technology & Innovation to help address growing demand for cybersecurity talent. The program places participants in paid, temporary full-time roles within the Cybersecurity division, where they rotate across different teams and gain practical experience in real operational environments.
The model combines hands-on learning, personalized development plans, and dedicated mentorship. Its goal is to bridge the gap between academic study and employer demand by helping participants build the skills, confidence, and exposure needed to succeed in Alberta's cybersecurity sector.
For people trying to break into the field, the program is designed to create meaningful work experience rather than just observation, with opportunities to contribute to active cybersecurity functions and learn from experienced practitioners.
Program Details
Duration, Qualifications and Next Intake
Duration
24 Months
The Work Experience Program runs as a 24-month placement designed to give participants time to build applied skills across multiple cybersecurity teams.
Who Can Apply
- Recent graduates from post-secondary institutions.
- Individuals with a degree or diploma and a strong interest in cybersecurity.
- Applicants who reside in Alberta.
- People with a clear passion for cybersecurity and continued learning.
Next Intake
Scheduled for 2027
Testimonials
What Participants Say
Sarah Hunt
Information Security Officer 2, Cybersecurity Operations
The program provides hands-on experience with a strong balance of theory and practice. Working on real-world projects, learning from industry experts, and receiving knowledgeable mentorship helped refine my skills and build confidence in my abilities.
Liam Ryan
Information Security Officer 3, Cyber Threat Intelligence and Reporting
The program was instrumental in helping me land a full-time position. It gave me space to learn new skills, demonstrate what I could do, and build strong professional connections. It’s a program where the more you put in, the more you get out of it.
Jocelyn Odorizzi
Information Security Officer 2, Vulnerability and Zero Trust
The program helped me transition into a new cybersecurity career, explore different domains, and discover where I wanted to grow. It opened doors that would have been difficult to access without direct experience.
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