AT Workforce Accelerator

AT Workforce Accelerator Training Center at Silvestri Hall

The Advanced Technology Workforce Accelerator (ATWA) is under Youngstown State University’s STEM Workforce Education and Innovation. Located in Silvestri Hall, ATWA aims to reflect YSU’s commitment to equipping the workforce with the critical skills needed at the intersection of information technology (IT), operational technology (OT), and advanced wireless networks—driving innovation, resilience, and economic growth in Northeast Ohio and beyond.

With the rapid evolution of Industry 4.0, the demand for a workforce trained in cybersecurity, 5G-enabled IoT, and automation systems is greater than ever. The ATWA was created to bridge these gaps, ensuring that talent is prepared not just for today’s jobs, but for the future of work.

YSU’s ATWA will continue working alongside industry leaders, regional employers, and state workforce initiatives to develop programs that align with emerging technology trends and labor market demands.

We are proud to be part of the Northeast Ohio Broadband and 5G Node

We are also proud to our partner with PLP Manufacturing for our Fiber Broadband Association OpTIC Path Bootcamp

 

Technical Industry Credentials

 

Duration: 40-60 hours total (varies by schedule)

Cost $1500

Format: Hybrid – online theory modules combined with in-person, hands-on labs at Silvestri Hall.

Objectives

The FBA OpTIC Path program prepares students for entry-level fiber technician roles in broadband deployment, fiber installation, troubleshooting, and network restoration. Students gain foundational knowledge of fiber networks and practical experience using industry-standard tools and equipment.

After completing this course, students should be able to perform the following tasks:

  • Run basic FDM printers
  • Identify fiber components, cable types, tools, and safety requirements
  • Perform proper fiber preparation: jacket removal, buffer tube access, cleaning, and cleaving
  • Execute precision mechanical and fusion splices
  • Perform ring cuts and mid-span access on fiber cables
  • Install and organize fiber in closures, trays, and DTC (Drop Terminal Closures)
  • Install and organize fiber in closures, trays, and termination panels
  • Conduct optical testing using an Optical Light Source (OLS), Optical Power Meter (OPM), and OTDR
  • Interpret test results and troubleshoot common fiber issues
  • Follow industry standards for labeling, documentation, and handling
  • Understand basic fiber network architecture (backbone, distribution, drop, and FTTx)

Course Delivery

Instruction is delivered through instructor-led demonstrations, guided hands-on labs, fiber preparation stations, fusion splicing practice, mid-span/ring-cut exercises, OTDR and power meter testing, and real-world closure builds. Students complete a practical skills assessment and knowledge exam aligned with FBA certification standards.

Prerequisites

None. Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort using tools is recommended.

 

Duration: 54 hours

Total cost: $4,846

Format: Hybrid – online modules and instructor-led sessions, including one required in-person session during Credential 4

Prerequisites: None

Program Overview

The 5G Readiness & Broadband Program prepares learners for entry-level roles in wireless communications, broadband deployment, 5G support, and field operations. Through four stackable credentials, participants build foundational knowledge of wireless systems, explore the 5G ecosystem, understand in-building wireless solutions, and gain introductory deployment skills necessary for broadband and 5G projects.

After completing the full program, students will be able to:

  • Understand the fundamentals of wireless, cellular, and broadband systems
  • Explain the evolution from 1G-5G and how networks are designed and deployed
  • Recognize key components in wireless and broadband infrastructure
  • Understand in-building wireless coverage needs and solution types
  • Identify basic site readiness and deployment considerations for broadband and 5G
  • Communicate effectively with technical teams, supervisors, and stakeholders
  • Follow safety and best practices when working around wireless environments

 

Credential 1: Wireless Broadband Infrastructure

Duration: 14.5 hours

Cost $899

Format: Hybrid – four online modules plus one instructor-led session

Objectives

This credential introduces the foundational concepts of wireless and broadband communication systems, focusing on RF basics, wireless infrastructure components, and how broadband and wireless networks work together to deliver connectivity.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Describe the fundamental concepts of wireless and broadband technologies
  • Recognize common infrastructure elements such as antennas, radios, and backhaul
  • Understand basic RF principles and how wireless signals move and behave
  • Explain the relationship between wireless networks and broadband systems
  • Identify basic safety and awareness considerations around wireless environments

Course Delivery

This credential combines self-paced online learning with one instructor-led class. Online modules teach core concepts, while the instructor-led session provides structured instruction and relatable examples that help students connect theory to real-world wireless and broadband environments.

 

Credential 2: 5G Ecosystem Overview

Duration: 11 hours

Cost $749

Format: Hybrid – three online modules + one instructor-led class

Objectives

Provides a high-level understanding of the 5G ecosystem, including 5G’s key features, major components, common use cases, and how 5G builds on earlier generations of mobile technology.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Explain how mobile networks evolved from 1G-4G to 5G
  • Identify core 5G capabilities and features
  • Recognize components of modern wireless networks
  • Describe 5G use cases across multiple industries
  • Understand how 5G interacts with fiber and edge computing

Course Delivery

Students complete three online modules followed by one full instructor-led class. The online lessons introduce foundational concepts, while the instructor-led session expands on them through guided explanation, visual examples, and practical context for real-world 5G applications.

Prerequisites

Must complete Credential 1: Wireless Broadband Infrastructure.

 

Credential 3: In-Building Wireless Solutions

Duration: 16 hours

Cost $1499

Format: Hybrid – one online module + three instructor-led classes

Objectives

Focuses on how wireless coverage is extended indoors through solutions such as DAS, small cells, and Wi-Fi. Learners explore indoor coverage challenges, solution types, and general design considerations.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Explain the need for in-building wireless coverage
  • Describe common in-building solutions (DAS, small cells, Wi-Fi)
  • Recognize key components of indoor wireless systems
  • Understand challenges related to building materials and coverage
  • Identify general implementation considerations for indoor systems

Course Delivery

This credential includes one online module followed by three full instructor-led classes. The online content introduces core concepts, and the instructor-led sessions apply those concepts through structured teaching, examples, and discussion related to real in-building wireless environments.

Prerequisites

Must complete Credential 1: Wireless Broadband Infrastructure and Credential 2: 5G Ecosystem Overview.

 

Credential 4: 5G and Broadband Deployment

Duration: 15 hours

Cost $1699

Format: Hybrid – four instructor-led classes, including one required in-person session

Objectives

Covers introductory deployment concepts for broadband and 5G projects, including site readiness, equipment awareness, basic safety, and general workflows involved in supporting deployment operations.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand basic steps in site preparation
  • Recognize hardware and components used in deployment
  • Apply fundamental safety practices related to deployment environments
  • Interpret high-level deployment documentation and workflows
  • Communicate effectively with field teams and supervisors

Course Delivery

Delivered through four instructor-led classes, one of which must be attended in person. Sessions focus on introductory deployment concepts, equipment awareness, and workflow expectations. The required in-person session gives students direct exposure to deployment-related processes in a controlled environment.

Prerequisites

Must complete Credential 1: Wireless Broadband Infrastructure, Credential 2: 5G Ecosystem Overview, and Credential 3: In-Building Wireless Solutions.

 

Duration: 5 hours of premium self-paced video training

Cost $425

Format: Online, asynchronous

Objectives

CompTIA Tech+ provides an introduction to key concepts in information technology, preparing learners for entry-level IT roles or for more advanced certifications such as CompTIA A+ and Network+. The course covers core IT fundamentals, device troubleshooting basics, operating systems, networking essentials, and foundational security concepts.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand basic computer components, device type, and operating systems
  • Perform introductory troubleshooting steps and support tasks
  • Navigate common software applications and system utilities
  • Describe fundamental networking concepts and wired/wireless technologies
  • Demonstrate professional communication and support best practices

Course Delivery

This course is delivered fully online through self-paced modules that include video instruction, reading materials, quizzes, and practical simulations. Learners progress through the content independently with opportunities for support and guided practice as needed. 

 

Duration:

  • Core 1: 15 hours + 90-minute exam
  • Core 2: 17 hours + 90-minute exam

Cost $1875

Format: Online, asynchronous

Objectives

CompTIA A+ builds essential skills for entry-level IT support roles. Through two online courses and two certification exams, learners develop foundational competencies in troubleshooting, operating systems, hardware, software, and introductory networking.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand and support common computer hardware and operating systems
  • Troubleshoot basic hardware, software, and connectivity issues
  • Apply problem-solving and documentation best practices
  • Recognize common cybersecurity risks and basic mitigation steps
  • Communicate effectively in IT support and help desk environments

Course Delivery

This program is delivered fully online through two structured courses (Core 1 and Core 2) totaling 32 instructional hours. Learners complete guided lessons, activities, and practice tasks independently. Two certification exams (Core 1 & Core 2, 90 minutes each) are required to earn the CompTIA A+ certification.

Prerequisites

CompTIA Tech+ recommended, but not required

 

Duration: 25 hours of instruction

  • 25 instructional videos
  • 29 live labs
  • 10 assessments
  • 79 practice questions

Cost $625

Format: Online – fully remote learning

Objectives

CompTIA a+ Network introduces foundational networking concepts for learners preparing to begin CompTIA Network+ training. This course covers essential topics such as network types, common devices, wired and wireless technologies, IP fundamentals, and basic troubleshooting. It is designed as a beginner-friendly bridge between CompTIA A+ and more advanced networking certifications.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand fundamental networking terminology and concepts
  • Identify common network devices and their purposes
  • Explain basic wired and wireless technologies
  • Recognize key IP addressing and connectivity fundamentals
  • Perform introductory network troubleshooting steps
  • Prepare confidently to begin CompTIA Network+ training

Course Delivery

Delivered fully online through guided instructional videos, live labs, interactive assessments, and practice questions. Learners progress through structure content that builds confidence and foundational skills before beginning formal Network+ preparation.

Prerequisites

CompTIA A+ recommended; No prior networking experience required.

 

Duration: 21 hours of premium self-paced video training

Cost $1525

Format: Online – fully remote learning

Objectives

CompTIA Network+ provides the essential knowledge and skills required to troubleshoot, configure, and manage both wired and wireless networks. This certification validates a learner’s ability to support network infrastructure, maintain network connectivity, and identify and mitigate basic security threats. It is widely recognized as the next step for individuals advancing toward IT support, networking, and cybersecurity roles.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand networking concepts, topologies, and common protocols
  • Configure and manage wired and wireless networks
  • Identify and troubleshoot network connectivity issues
  • Work with routers, switches, access points, and network hardware
  • Apply basic network security practices and risk mitigation techniques
  • Interpret network diagrams, tools, and documentation
  • Support day-to-day IT operations involving networks

Course Delivery

This course is delivered fully online, using structure instructional modules, video lessons, simulations, and practice labs. Students progress independently while accessing support resources that help prepare them for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.

Prerequisites

CompTIA A+ or equivalent knowledge

 

Duration: 70 hours; Exam: 50 minutes

Cost $342

Format: Online – fully remote learning

Objectives

The Cisco Network Technician program introduces the fundamental skills required to support, configure, and troubleshoot basic network environments. Learners gain practical knowledge of networking devices, IP connectivity, wired and wireless technologies, and essential network operations – serving as a stepping-stone toward more advance Cisco or CompTIA networking certifications

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand foundational networking concepts, terminology, and protocols
  • Identify and work with common network devices (switches, routers, access points)
  • Configure basic wired and wireless connectivity
  • Troubleshoot common network issues and connectivity problems
  • Understand IP addressing, subnetting fundamentals, basic routing concepts
  • Apply introductory network security and best practices
  • Demonstrate readiness for more advanced network technician or administrator training

Course Delivery

Delivered fully online through structured modules, interactive labs, hands-on simulations, and assessments. Students progress independently while developing practical skills needed to support network infrastructure in entry-level IT or networking roles.

Prerequisites

Foundational IT knowledge recommendation

 

 

Duration: 31 hours of instruction

  • 24 instructional videos
  • 29 live labs
  • 11 assessments
  • 110 practice questions

Cost $625

Format: Online – fully remote learning

Objectives

CompTIA a+ Cyber introduces essential cybersecurity principles and prepares learners to advance into more rigorous cybersecurity training. Students gain awareness of common threats, basic defensive strategies, and the building blocks of modern security practices.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand foundational cybersecurity terminology and core concepts
  • Recognize common threats including phishing, malware, and social engineering
  • Apply essential best practices for securing devices, users, and data
  • Understand basic authentication, authorization, and access control
  • Identify common vulnerabilities in everyday IT environments
  • Interpret basic security alerts, warnings, and event data
  • Build confidence and readiness to begin CompTIA Security+ training

Course Delivery

This program is delivered fully online through structured instructional videos, interactive assessments, and hands-on virtual machine labs. Learners receive instant feedback, progress tracking, and guided practice to strengthen skill development throughout the course.

 

Duration: 17 hours

Cost $1625

Format: Online – fully remote learning

Objectives

CompTIA Security+ provides the essential knowledge and hands-on skills needed to secure networks, systems, and data in modern IT environments. This certification validates baseline cybersecurity competencies required for roles such as security analyst, systems administrator, help desk II, SOC analyst, and other early-career cyber roles.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Identify and analyze common cybersecurity threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities
  • Implement security controls for networks, applications, and cloud resources, and endpoints
  • Configure and manage identity, access, and authentication tools
  • Understand cryptography basics, certificates, and secure protocols
  • Apply secure architecture principles across enterprise environments
  • Perform incident response, analysis, and basic forensics
  • Follow governance, risk, and compliance best practices
  • Prepare successfully for the CompTIA Security+ certification exam

Course Delivery

This course is delivered fully online through structured instructional modules, video lessons, hands-on labs, and guided practice activities. Learners work at their own pace while receiving digital resources, exam preparation tools, and support needed to build confidence for the Security+ certification exam.

 

Duration: 14 hours of instruction; Exam: 2 hours

Cost $292

Format: Online – fully remote learning

Objectives

EC-Council Network Defense Essentials introduces learners to core defensive cybersecurity concepts and foundational security practices. The course develops essential skills in network security, threat identification, access control, and basic defensive strategies that prepare learners for more advanced cybersecurity training.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand foundational network defense terminology and concepts
  • Identify common cyber threats, attack methods, and system vulnerabilities
  • Recognize how networks and devices are targeted
  • Apply introductory security controls and best practices
  • Understand basic access control and authentication principles
  • Interpret simple security events, alerts, and logs
  • Build readiness for higher-level cybersecurity certifications

Course Delivery

This course is delivered fully online through structured instructional modules, interactive content, and knowledge checks, and virtual lab experiences. Learners progress independently while building baseline defensive security skills needed for further cybersecurity education.

 

Duration: 15 hours of instruction; Exam: 2 hours

Cost $292

Format: Online – fully remote training

Objectives

EC-Council Ethical Hacking Essentials introduces learners to the fundamentals of ethical hacking and offensive security. This beginner-level course provides a foundational understanding of how attackers operate, how vulnerabilities are exploited, and how security testing methodologies are used to identify weaknesses in networks and applications.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand foundational ethical hacking terminology and concepts
  • Recognize common attack methods, techniques, tools, and motivations
  • Identify vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications
  • Understand introductory, recon, scanning, and enumeration concepts
  • Recognize social engineering tactics and prevention strategies
  • Understand basic exploitation principles and common payload types
  • Build readiness for more advanced ethical hacking and penetration testing courses

Course Delivery

This course is delivered fully online through structured instructional modules, interactive lessons, guided labs, and assessments. Learners progress independently while gaining essential offensive security awareness needed for more advanced cybersecurity pathways.

 

Duration: 120 hours; Exam: 50 minutes

Cost $342

Format: Online – fully remote training

Objectives

The Cisco Junior Cybersecurity Analyst program introduces learners to the foundational skills needed to monitor, detect, and respond to cybersecurity threats in a Security Operations Center (SOC) environment. This course builds practical awareness of security tools, event analysis, and defensive workflows used by entry-level cybersecurity analysts.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand the role of a SOC and responsibilities of junior cyber analysts
  • Identify common cyber threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities
  • Use introductory cybersecurity tools to monitor security events and alerts
  • Analyze logs, incidents, and network activity at a beginner analyst level
  • Understand key concepts in threat detection, triage, and response
  • Recognize basic security controls, risk mitigation strategies, and defensive actions
  • Build readiness for more advanced SOC training and cybersecurity certifications

Course Delivery

This course is delivered fully online through structured instructional modules, interactive labs, simulations, and assessments. Learners progress independently while gaining hands-on exposure to cybersecurity workflows and tools aligned with real-world analyst roles.

 

 

Duration: 6 hours

Cost $150

Format: Online – fully remote learning

Objectives

Cisco Introduction to IoT & Digital Transformation provides an accessible overview of how connected devices, smart systems, and automation are shaping modern industries. Learners explore fundamental IoT concepts, device behavior, data flow, security considerations, and how digital transformation is influencing business operations and the future of work.

After completing this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand basic IoT terminology, components, and architecture
  • Identify common sensors, actuators, and connected devices
  • Recognize how IoT systems collect, transmit, and process data
  • Understand the role of networks and cloud technologies in IoT ecosystems
  • Identify basic cybersecurity concerns related to connected devices
  • Recognize real-world examples of digital transformation across industries
  • Build a foundation for more advanced IoT, OT, or industrial automation learning

Course Delivery

This course is delivered fully online using concise modules, interactive content, and introductory activities. Learners progress independently while gaining a foundational understanding of IoT technologies and digital transformation concepts used across modern IT/OT environments.

 

 

Certification: Prepares students to sit for the FAA Part 107 Knowledge Exam

Status: Coming Soon

You’ll learn how to read sectional charts, interpret aviation weather reports, identify airspace restrictions, and understand how federal laws apply to sUAS operations. The course also includes exam-style practice questions and test preparation support to help you confidently sit for the FAA Part 107 Knowledge Exam.

Topics Include

  • FAA regulations & operational limitations
  • National Airspace System (NAS)
  • Airspace classifications & restrictions
  • Aviation weather basics (METARs, RAFs, patterns)
  • Drone performance & loading
  • Emergency & abnormal procedures
  • Crew resource management (CRM) & human factors
  • Preflight planning & operational safety
  • FAA Part 107 exam preparation

 

Certification: Prepares students for USI Safety Level 1 competency evaluation

Status: Coming Soon

Objectives

Build a strong foundation in small, unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) by exploring the core components, functions, and technologies that make modern drones operate. This introductory technical certification provides students with essential knowledge of how remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) are designed, how their subsystems work together, and how they support safe and effective flight.

Students will learn key concepts in system classification, aerodynamics, flight control, navigation, data-link communication, and payload integration. This course is ideal for anyone beginning their drone training pathway or preparing for more advanced maintenance, mission planning, or flight operations.

Topics Include:

  • sUAS/RPAS classifications and system architecture
  • Basic aerodynamics & aircraft design principles
  • Flight control surfaces, sensors, and navigation systems
  • Data links, communication protocols & command/control
  • Power systems: batteries, motor & propulsion
  • Payload types and operational considerations
  • Overview of safety, best practices & basic risk awareness

 

Certification: Prepares students for USI Safety Level 2 competency evaluation

Status: Coming Soon

Objectives

Develop the practical skills required to maintain, troubleshoot, and support the airworthiness of small, unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). This certification builds on foundational Level 1 concepts and introduces the tools, techniques, and procedures used to inspect, repair, and sustain remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) for safe and reliable operation.

Students will learn how to assess system health, identify maintenance needs, perform basic servicing tasks, and follow standard maintenance protocols. This course blends technical instruction with guided hands-on activities to help learners understand real-world maintenance workflows and industry expectations.

Topics Include:

  • sUAS component inspection & diagnostics
  • Battery care, power systems & electrical safety
  • Motor, propeller & propulsion system maintenance
  • Firmware updates, system calibration & configuration
  • Datalink, sensor & payload troubleshooting
  • Preventative maintenance processes & documentation
  • Safety protocols for maintenance environments

 

Certification: Prepares students for USI safety Level 3 competency evaluation

Status: Coming Soon

Objectives

Learn the critical planning, preparation, and operational decision-making required to conduct safe and effective Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) drone missions. This certification focuses on the full mission lifecycle – from evaluating an operating environment to managing on-site safety, preparing equipment, and performing structured post-flight tasks.

Students will explore how to analyze an area of operations, identify potential hazards, evaluate environmental and logistical factors, and apply industry-standard risk assessment processes. This course prepares learners to build mission plans that support compliant, efficient, and safe sUAS operations.

Topics Include:

  • Site assessment & surveying fundamentals
  • Mission planning workflows for VLOS operations
  • Preflight risk assessment & hazard identification
  • Weather, airspace & environmental considerations
  • Crew roles, responsibilities & onsite communication
  • Equipment preparation, packaging & transport
  • Operational checklists & flight-day coordination
  • Post-flight procedures, documentation & data handling

 

Certification: Prepares students for USI Safety Level 4 VLOS Flight competency evaluation

Status: Coming Soon

Objectives

Develop the hands-on flight skills required to operate a small, unmanned aircraft safely and confidently within Visual Line-of-Sight (VLOS). This advanced safety certification builds on the mission planning foundation from Level 3 and focuses on the full execution of a VLOS Flight operation – from preflight preparation to in-air maneuvers to post-flight documentation.

Students will learn to handle RPAS controls, apply standard operating procedures, execute structured flight activities, and maintain situational awareness throughout each phase of flight. This course emphasizes professional standards, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance for real-world operational environments.

Topics Include:

  • Preflight preparation & system checks
  • Manual control techniques & basic psychomotor skills
  • Automated flight functions & mission execution
  • Aerial imagery acquisition techniques
  • Managing emergencies & abnormal procedures
  • Flight path management & operational safety
  • Post-flight documentation & reporting
  • Real-world application of aviation SOP’s

Additional Materials Included

  • Digital flight logbook
  • Annual simulation subscription for Group 1 hand-controlled aircraft