Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) officially launched its new Regional Security Operations Center (RSOC) last month, marking a significant step forward in preparing Arizona's next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
The launch brought together education leaders, industry partners, and community stakeholders to celebrate the collaborative initiative, which positions PVCC at the forefront of applied cybersecurity education and workforce development.
The Regional Security Operations Center (RSOC) builds on a foundation established by PVCC's sister college, Glendale Community College (GCC), whose Business and Information Technology faculty recognized nearly seven years ago the growing cybersecurity workforce shortage and increasing threat of cybercrime. In response, GCC developed a cybersecurity curriculum and launched the Gaucho Security Operations Center, where student interns gained real-world experience helping protect rural communities from cyber threats. That work paved the way for the RSOC, an expanded partnership between PVCC, GCC, and the Arizona Department of Homeland Security that broadens opportunities for students while strengthening cybersecurity support throughout Arizona.
Preparing Students for High-Demand Careers
"This initiative represents a strong collaboration between higher education, state government, cybersecurity professionals, and regional partners who share a commitment to strengthening Arizona's cyber resilience while preparing our future workforce," said PVCC President Dr. Jana Schwartz. "The Regional Security Operations Center gives our students meaningful operational experience in real-world cybersecurity environments. They won't simply graduate with technical knowledge; they'll graduate with the hands-on skills employers are looking for, prepared to step directly into high-demand cybersecurity careers while helping protect businesses, government agencies, schools, and communities across Arizona."
Home to the RSOC, PVCC is expanding cybersecurity education beyond a single campus by providing an advanced training environment where students apply classroom knowledge alongside government and industry partners. Students across Maricopa County Community College District will have access to the center, creating opportunities for collaborative learning while building the workforce Arizona employers need.
Designed to mirror a professional Security Operations Center, the RSOC gives students hands-on experience using the same tools, technologies, and workflows employed by cybersecurity professionals. They will develop practical skills in threat monitoring, incident response, vulnerability management, and security analysis through simulated and operational learning experiences.
"As cyber threats continue to evolve, employers need graduates who can contribute on day one," said Dr. Sean Petty, PVCC's Dean of Instruction and founder of the Network and Security Program. "Students won't just study cybersecurity concepts; they'll apply them in realistic scenarios that mirror the challenges professionals face every day. By combining technical instruction with hands-on experience and strong industry partnerships, we're preparing graduates to make an immediate impact while helping strengthen Arizona's cybersecurity workforce."
Strengthening Arizona’s Cybersecurity Ecosystem
The RSOC also serves as a collaborative hub connecting higher education, government agencies, business leaders, and community organizations. Through the center, students will help protect local governments, K-12 school districts, tribal communities, and other organizations from evolving cyber threats while gaining valuable operational experience before graduation.
The partnerships behind the RSOC will expand opportunities for internships, workforce engagement, and applied learning while strengthening regional cybersecurity preparedness. By bringing together colleges, government agencies, and industry partners, RSOC is creating a stronger pipeline of highly skilled cybersecurity professionals ready to meet Arizona's growing workforce needs.
To learn more about PVCC’s Networking and Security program, visit the website.