Spotlight on Lake Washington Institute of Technology

Unlocking Cybersecurity Success at Lake Washington Institute of Technology

For students looking to break into the fast-growing field of cybersecurity, Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) offers a top-tier education with unmatched faculty support, cutting-edge curriculum, and direct pathways to four-year degrees.

A Supportive and Hands-On Learning Environment

What sets LWTech apart from other institutions is its personalized approach to student success. Unlike larger universities where students may struggle to get one-on-one time with instructors, LWTech’s cybersecurity faculty are deeply invested in student achievement. Faculty members are directly involved in mentoring students, ensuring they not only grasp technical concepts but also develop the confidence and skills needed for the workforce.

LWTech fosters a family-like environment where instructors maintain close relationships with students throughout their academic journey. This highly engaged approach has contributed to strong student retention rates and successful post-graduation career outcomes.

One thing that we hear time and time again from students is that we provide a supportive environment for them to learn. We believe that student support happens inside and outside of classrooms and labs. Our students receive wrap around support from tutoring to mental health counseling as part of their educational journey at the college. It’s because of that support that students overcome barriers to their education and complete their programs and successfully go right into their chosen careers. [Dr. Amy Morrison, president of LWTech.]

Cutting-Edge Learning Tracks

LWTech continually updates its curriculum to stay ahead of industry trends. Recently, the program incorporated AI learning, cloud computing, and penetration testing into its courses to align with evolving cybersecurity demands.

The programs of study currently offered are:

• Computer Security and Network Technology, Associate of Applied Science degree
• Computer Security and Network Technology, Associate of Applied Science - Transfer degree
• IT Support Technician, Certificate of Proficiency
• Network Support Technician, Certificate of Proficiency

Areas of learning include:

• Hardware and Systems Administration
• Linux Administration
• Network Security
• Server Administration
• Cloud Computing
• Developmental Security (DevSecOps)

Students are also prepared to take industry exams like CompTIA Network+, A+ or Security+. Always a “plus” to have on your resume!

Seamless Transfer to a Four-Year Degree

LWTech has a unique articulation agreement with Western Washington University (WWU), allowing students to transition seamlessly into a four-year cybersecurity bachelor’s program. The best part? WWU has a dedicated training facility right on the LWTech campus, eliminating the need for students to relocate to complete their 4-year degree.

Industry Connections & Career Readiness

LWTech’s cybersecurity program maintains strong partnerships with tech giants such as Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Dell. These relationships open doors to competitive internships and job placements, helping students gain hands-on experience even before graduation.

Graduates have gone on to land jobs at major companies like Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Dell, and Sun Solaris, as well as within academia and government agencies.

State-of-the-Art Training Facilities

Thanks to a $350,000 cybersecurity grant from Washington State, LWTech has invested in new equipment and software for their training labs. Students gain hands-on experience working with:

• Virtualized network environments
• Advanced penetration testing tools
• Cloud computing platforms
• Physical hardware assembly and troubleshooting

Capstone Projects and Real-World Training

Every student completes a culminating Capstone project, applying their skills to build fully operational networks, configure security protocols, and perform penetration testing—both on-premesis and in the cloud. This immersive experience gives them a competitive edge in the job market.

Get Started Today!

With rising demand for cybersecurity professionals, LWTech provides an ideal launchpad for a rewarding career. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a career changer, or looking to upskill, LWTech’s cybersecurity program offers the education, mentorship, and industry connections you need to succeed.

Learn more about cybersecurity at LWTech and take the first step toward your future in cybersecurity today!

https://www.lwtech.edu/academics/school-of-it/computer-security/index.aspx