Apply to the January 2027 Cohort

Curious about cybersecurity? You don't need to have it all figured out to begin.

CyberRoots Initiative is welcoming applications for our inaugural 90-day Cybersecurity Foundations & CompTIA Security+ Preparation Cohort, beginning January 11, 2027.

Designed for military spouses, with a focus on those connected to rural communities, this learning experience will introduce foundational cybersecurity concepts, support structured certification preparation, and encourage practical skill development.

Whether you're exploring cybersecurity for the first time or building on previous technical experience, we encourage you to apply.

What to expect

90 days of structured learning support, January 11–April 10, 2027
Foundational cybersecurity and CompTIA Security+ preparation
Opportunities for practical exercises and collaborative learning
A supportive learning community
Flexible onboarding before the cohort begins

Before applying

Plan for approximately 6–9 hours per week as a starting study commitment. Participants who are new to IT may need additional independent study time, including after the 90-day cohort.

The application should take approximately 10–15 minutes. No prior cybersecurity experience is required.

Participation does not guarantee certification, employment, job placement, or other career outcomes.

Applications close: December 4, 2026

Ready to explore what's next?

Complete the application below.

First name

Last name

Email

Phone

How did you hear about us?

Question 1. Which best describes your connection to the military?

Question 2. Which best describes your connection to a rural community?

I currently live in a rural community.

I previously lived in a rural community.

My family plans to relocate to a rural community.

My family plans to return to a rural community after military service.

I live in a small town or rural-adjacent community and am unsure how it is classified.

I'm interested in rural workforce opportunities but do not have a direct rural connection.

None of the above.

Other

Question 3. What Minnesota connection, if any, do you have?

I currently live in Minnesota.

I plan to relocate or return to Minnesota.

I have family or community ties to Minnesota.

I do not currently have a Minnesota connection.

Other

Question 4. Is there anything you would like us to understand about your military spouse experience or rural connection?

Optional

Question 5. How would you describe your current experience with IT or cybersecurity?

I'm completely new to IT and cybersecurity.

I've explored cybersecurity independently.

I've completed some courses or training.

I have previous IT or technical work experience.

I currently work in IT or cybersecurity.

Other / Not sure.

Question 6. What interests you about cybersecurity?

Exploring a new career direction

Learning how technology and networks work

Protecting information and systems

Cybersecurity governance, risk, or compliance

Technical security operations

Developing practical technology skills

Preparing for CompTIA Security+

I'm curious but not sure yet

Other

Question 7. Have you previously studied for or attempted CompTIA Security+?

Yes

No

Question 8. Why are you interested in joining this CyberRoots Initiative cohort?

Helper text:

We'd like to understand what interests you about this opportunity. There's no expectation that you already know exactly where cybersecurity might take you.

Question 10. How much time do you anticipate being able to dedicate to learning each week?

Question 11. When are you generally most available for learning activities?

Question 12. What technology do you currently have access to?

A Windows computer I can use for learning

A Mac computer I can use for learning

A Linux computer I can use for learning

A Chromebook or tablet only

Reliable home internet

Internet access that is limited or inconsistent

Shared computer access

I may need assistance/information on accessing appropriate technology.

Other

Question 13. What might make it difficult to participate consistently?

This question supports program planning. It does not count against someone in selection.

Question 14. Would you like us to contact you privately about accessibility accommodations or learning support?

Yes

No

I'm not sure yet.