The New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) announced Feb. 27 applications are open for an expansion of its workforce development partnership with Verizon, supported by a grant from the telecom giant. 

The program, managed by NJIT’s Learning and Development Initiative, is expected to launch in early April. It will provide no-cost, high-impact training in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and IT to eligible New Jersey residents in order to bridge the digital skills gap.

An essential part of the new phase is the debut of a Cybersecurity Community of Practice, a collaborative ecosystem where participants, industry experts and NJIT graduate students engage in peer-to-peer learning and mentorship. This model ensures that students are integrated into a professional network from day one.

“We are excited to partner with NJIT to provide this invaluable digital skills training opportunity,” said Donna Epps, Verizon’s chief responsible business officer. “As the digital landscape evolves, Verizon is reshaping its commitments to help individuals build their skillset in the workforce’s most sought-after digital areas like AI and cyber security to turn career ambitions into reality.”

The program is intended to address the needs of the modern economy:

  • CompTIA Tech + and A+ Certification Prep: Equipping participants with the foundational technical skills required for essential IT and telecommunications roles.
  • NJIT AI Literacy Microcredential: Ensuring all participants are fluent in the ethical and practical applications of artificial intelligence – a critical skill set for the future of work.
  • Cybersecurity Community of Practice: An opportunity for networking, real-world case studies and ongoing professional development.
  • Format: Most training is offered online and laptops/internet are available for qualifying participants to assist with access. A variety of schedules are available to accommodate those who might have other obligations.

“NJIT is New Jersey’s greatest producer of tech talent, and we are honored to collaborate with Verizon on a program that goes beyond traditional technical training,” said NJIT President Teik C. Lim. “By combining CompTIA A+ certification with our new AI Literacy microcredential and a robust Community of Practice, we are providing opportunities that match rapidly evolving technological needs of employers.”



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