University of New Haven to Host Google-Sponsored Cybersecurity and Technology Expo

The 2nd Annual Connecticut Regional Cybersecurity and Tech Virtual Expo will enable employers to meet with top cybersecurity, information technology, and computer students and alumni from across Connecticut.

October 12, 2021

By Renee Chmiel, Office of Marketing and Communications

The University of New Haven and its Connecticut Institute of Technology are hosting the 2nd annual Connecticut Regional Cybersecurity and Tech Virtual Expo on Tuesday, October 26, from 1-4 p.m. Students and alumni from 17 schools across the Northeast will participate, connecting with leading employers in the cybersecurity and technology fields.

The event is co-sponsored by Google and the Connecticut Career Consortium, a group of college and university career centers in Connecticut that advocates for the workforce development needs of the state’s college students. Employers will meet with students virtually via chat or video, and they will have the opportunity to share information about their organization or discuss open positions.

The expo will include companies, agencies, and organizations from the private sector as well as government entities, such as Lockheed Martin, the U.S. Department of Energy, Yale New Haven Health, the National Security Agency, and Electric Boat. More than 40 employers are expected to take part in the event.

"Technology-related positions are some of the fastest-growing opportunities in the world, with cybersecurity leading the way,” said Matt Caporale, executive director of the University of New Haven’s Career Development Center and president of the Connecticut Career Consortium. “It is currently estimated that there are more than one million open cybersecurity positions right now globally.

“As we see regularly in the news, cyberattacks on businesses, education, and governments have dramatic and wide-ranging impacts on personal privacy, global finances, and trust in our institutions,” Caporale continued. “The talent need in this area is immense, and the University of New Haven and the state of Connecticut are stepping up to provide the industry with the talent needed to secure our global networks. As evidenced by Google sponsoring this career fair, Connecticut is positioned to become a leader in producing technology and cybersecurity talent."

Employers, who must register by Wednesday, October 20, will meet students on a virtual platform, ensuring high-quality interactions. Employers and students may meet for pre-scheduled meetings or using the virtual drop-in booth.

“Getting a good education is about getting a good job,” said Ibrahim “Abe” Baggili, Ph.D., Elder Family Chair and founding director of the University’s Connecticut Institute of Technology. “The Connecticut Institute of Technology is leading the way in the state of Connecticut and beyond in creating opportunities for cybersecurity and technology students to meet with some of the best employers in the country. We want to transform the state into a technology hub for hiring talent, and that is why we are glad the career fair is open to 17 universities.”

“The Google sponsorship of the 2nd Annual Regional Cyber Tech Expo really elevates the profile of the University of New Haven in a special way,” added Marcus Paca, assistant director of employer relations for the University of New Haven’s Career Development Center. “From a career-readiness and outcomes perspective, it sends a positive message to all of our stakeholders – students, faculty, staff, and external partners – that we are preparing an outstanding pool of talent worthy of a top-echelon, Fortune 100 recognition. I hope this Google sponsorship is the beginning a long-lasting trend.”