Ivy Tech Community College South Bend-Elkhart has launched a partnership with Switzerland-based cybersecurity education firm CyberproAI to offer students immersive, real-world training designed to meet modern workforce demands.
Through the collaboration, students will gain hands-on experience with cyberattack simulators and interactive labs powered by Cympire, CyberproAI’s advanced simulation platform. The system mimics real-world cyber threats in a gamified environment, which the company says helps students build job-ready skills in a field facing a nationwide talent shortage.
“Partnering with Ivy Tech South Bend-Elkhart extends our reach and impact in Indiana,” said Oron Mincha, general manager of North America for CyberproAI. “We are driven by our mission to empower the next generation of cybersecurity professionals with practical, job-ready skills.”
The partnership builds on earlier collaborations between CyberproAI and Ivy Tech campuses in Valparaiso and Lake County, expanding the college system’s capacity to prepare students for high-demand roles in cybersecurity.
Local leaders say the initiative is particularly relevant to the South Bend-Elkhart region, where more than 100 new cybersecurity workers are needed each year.
Violet Hawkins, dean of business and information technology at Ivy Tech South Bend-Elkhart, played a key role in establishing the partnership.
“Our students will gain unparalleled access to advanced simulations and training resources that will set them apart in today’s competitive job market,” Hawkins said.