IT Career Opportunity with NSITE's Cisco Academy.

Be a part of the only CISCO Academy customized for individuals who are blind in the United States! This innovative training opportunity connects talented individuals who are blind and interested in an IT career with the opportunity to receive not only the training but support in getting that employment opportunity with some of the leading industries in the country.

The NSITE Cisco Academy, adapted to the learning styles of people who are blind or visually impaired, provides foundational knowledge of a broad range of IT fundamentals, preparing participants to pass the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam and take their IT careers in any direction they wish.
Key Components of the NSITE Cisco Academy

Training- Receive customized instructor-led virtual training from leading IT trainers in the industry.
Professional Certification- Participants who complete the NSITE Cisco Academy become Cisco Certified Network Associates, a certification recognized throughout the IT industry. NSITE facilitates scheduling and taking the CCNA certification exam.
Workplace Preparation- Students attending the NSITE Cisco Academy participate in training and one-on-one consultations on topics from resume writing and mock interviews to professional networking and workplace etiquette. 
Employment- After earning their Cisco Certified Network Associate certification, NSITE works to assist participants in obtaining employment in the field by leveraging partnerships within the IT community and NSITE Connect.  

What is the schedule for the current program?
The 40-week instructor-led training program is conducted using a virtual classroom two days per week, from 6:00-9:00 p.m. ET. Student's study and complete lab assignments on their own time.

Is there a cost to the program?
Yes, there is a training fee for CISCO Academy. NSITE will work with you to find funding resources for the program either with your Vocational Rehabilitation offices or various grant opportunities established with the program. 

Who is eligible for the NSITE Cisco Academy?

• The NSITE Cisco Academy is exclusively for people who are blind or visually impaired.
• Documentation of legal blindness is required.
• A four-year college degree with a focus in Computer Science is preferred but not required.
• Work experience in the IT field building mainframes or computers in a lab, or teaching computer security, or as certified IT employees such as A+, Security +, or Network+ .
• Must have intermediate to advanced skills using assistive technology.
• Applicants must be able to commit to an intensive 40-week training program.

Read Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To apply, please complete the application form below. You will need to upload your resume and if you have a vocational rehabilitation counselor you will need to provide us with their contact information to complete the application.

DEADLINE to Apply: March 1st, 2022

Click here to access the application.

Questions? Please contact Rikki Howie at [email protected].