Cybersecurity Center at San Juan College. Students in their classroom on the computers.

Cybersecurity Center

There are nearly 4,000 cybersecurity job openings in New Mexico alone, and more than 500,000 nationwide. With high demand for cybersecurity professionals, our Cybersecurity Center offers the path to a fulfilling career in this rapidly growing field.


At the Cybersecurity Center, we arm San Juan College students with the expertise and skill sets needed to thrive in this industry. Partnering with local employers, we tailor academic programs to ensure students possess the required knowledge and skills to be highly competitive in the field of cybersecurity.  

The Cybersecurity Center facilitates forums for collaboration between students, local business leaders, and partners to address workforce needs, discuss innovation, and stay ahead of industry trends.

Hands typing on a keyboard with computer coding imagery overlaid

National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)

SJC is the only two-year institution in New Mexico designated by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense for our AAS degree in Information Technology with a Cybersecurity Support Certificate. 

The Information Technology AAS and Cybersecurity Support Certificate feature a robust curriculum covering key areas such as network security, cryptography, digital forensics, and incident response, ensuring students are prepared for success in the field. 

Logo for National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity and Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Community

GenCyber Camp

GenCyber Camp, through Kids Kollege, lets students explore cryptography, the world of network security, and online safety practices by using robots, drones, and other fun hands-on activities

Register for 2024 GenCyber Camp

Learn more about 2023 GenCyber Camp

Students working with their robot in GenCyber Camp 2023.
GenCyber Camp Students

Cybersecurity News

National Cyberwatch Center Newsletter

Cybersecurity Resources

National Cyberwatch Center

SJC Information Technology Training and Resources

San Juan College IT student sitting in Computer Lab.

Intelligence Community Center for Academic Excellence (IC CAE)

San Juan College is a Minority Serving, IC CAE Legacy Institution. We're committed to maintaining specific standards set by the Intelligence Community, ensuring our programs are diverse, our events are well-managed, our faculty is top-notch, and our curriculum is excellent. We're dedicated to preparing you to become skilled and knowledgeable for important roles in the Intelligence Community.

Cybersecurity Faculty

Academic Advisory Committee

This committee meets regularly to ensure San Juan College's curriculum meets current workforce demands. Reach out to the Cybersecurity Center for more information on joining.

  • James Campbell, IT Director, City of Farmington
  • Cameron Cooper, Associate Professor, San Juan College
  • Drake Harris, Senior Help Desk Analyst, City of Farmington
  • Ashley Huntsman, Director of User Support, San Juan College
  • Cheryl Jordan, Professor, San Juan College
  • Roy Lytle, Chief Information Officer, San Juan College
  • Dr. Lorenzo Reyes, Vice President of Workforce and Economic Development, San Juan College
  • Darren Smith, IT Director, Citizens Bank
  • Charles Thacker, Executive Director Technology, Farmington Municipal Schools

Cybersecurity Infrastructure Advisory Committee

Comprised of subject matter experts from regional industries, they offer insights on needed skills, in-demand jobs, and future cybersecurity needs. The committee welcomes community members and businesses. To join, contact the Cybersecurity Center. 

Point of Contact

Cameron Cooper, Ph.D., MSIN. CEH, CASP+, CySA+, Security+

computerscience@ltzz.net 
Phone: (505) 566-3372

Information Technology Center
Room 7237 & 7238

M-F 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.