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Journey Will Explore Insights from Cybersecurity Professionals Through Authentic Conversations, Discovering Breadth and Diversity of Growing Field

Costa Mesa, Calif., Nov. 22, 2016 –Jobs in the cybersecurity sector have increased by 73 percent over the past five years, making it one of the hottest career fields for America’s students and young adults. However, recent headlines about cyber warfare, cyber crime, and cyber espionage demonstrate the need for qualified professionals with the skills to succeed in cybersecurity—a field that is growing 12 times faster than the average American industry.

That’s why career exploration organization �����Ի� University of Maryland University College (UMUC) are teaming up to send three people interested in cybersecurity on a three-week road trip across the nation. The journey—termed the “Cybersecurity Roadtrip”—will be filmed and produced into a one-hour documentary, set to air on public television in 2017.

“Cybersecurity is an often misunderstood field—that’s why we are excited to collaborate with UMUC and showcase conversations with real world leaders who challenge stereotypical images and reveal the many opportunities available to individuals in this career space,” said Mike Marriner, cofounder of Roadtrip Nation.

UMUC has enrolled and graduated thousands of cybersecurity students in the past five years, answering a call from military and business leaders for a new generation of specialists to protect vital digital resources. The university serves more than 84,000 students worldwide each year (more than half of whom are active duty military personnel, dependents and veterans) and is one of the largest distance-learning institutions in the world.

“Education is a lifelong journey, and UMUC is pleased to partner with Roadtrip Nation on a project that promises to enlighten people nationwide about one of the 21^st century’s most exciting and challenging career fields – cybersecurity,” said UMUC President Javier Miyares. “We are excited for the three roadtrippers and wish them all the best as they explore their futures.”

The Cybersecurity Roadtrip launches on November 27, 2016, in New York City, with a celebratory kickoff event at UMUC and the National Cryptologic Museum in Maryland on December 2. Winding their way across the country with highlighted stops in New Orleans, Austin, and Los Angeles, the road-trippers will book and conduct a slate of in-depth interviews with leaders from different specializations within the cybersecurity field.

Candidates selected for the opportunity have unique backgrounds and challenges; all possess a passion for cybersecurity. Mansi Thakar is pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity, Emily Cox recently discovered a love for the field after attending an immersive coding boot camp, and Antwan King is enrolled in a master’s program in digital forensics and cyber investigation. They are looking forward to finding new mentors and exploring the diversity of career paths available within the field.

To stay up to date on the journey, follow @RoadtripNation, @UMUC, and #CybersecurityRoadtrip on Twitter.

About Roadtrip Nation

Roadtrip Nation, renowned for its New York Times best-selling career guide, award-winning documentary television series, and acclaimed classroom curriculum, is a career exploration organization that creates content, products, and experiences to help individuals pursue fulfilling careers. Combining self-reflection with real-world exposure, Roadtrip Nation’s tools enable youth to connect their interests to relevant life pathways and stay engaged with their futures. For more information, visit �����Ի� .

About University of Maryland University College

UMUC is a world leader in innovative educational models, with award-winning online programs in disciplines including biotechnology, cybersecurity, data analytics, and information technology that are in high demand in today's increasingly technical, global workplace. UMUC offers open access with a global footprint and a specific mission—to meet the learning needs of adult students whose responsibilities may include jobs, family and military service. For more information about UMUC, visit umgc.edu

Press Contacts:

Kelsey Cox, Roadtrip Nation

(949) 764-9121, x220

kelsey@roadtripnation.com

Bob Ludwig, UMUC

(301) 887-7614

robert.ludwig@umgc.edu