The Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC) gives Iowa high school students a unique voice in the future of technology. In this free program, students in grades 10–12 research high-speed Internet topics, meet Iowa technology leaders, and discover local tech careers.
Meetings happen once a month during the school year. Students can join easily via video call, phone conference, or in person.
As a council member, you will find smart ways to improve high-speed Internet and community tech. Your unique ideas can directly help bring better Internet to rural Iowa.
Why Join the SYBAC Student Council?
If you are an Iowa student interested in IT, coding, or computers, SYBAC is a great resume builder. By joining, you will:
- Network with Experts: Talk directly with Iowa tech executives and government leaders to learn about their career paths.
- Earn Certificates: Get free access to professional training and earn your Fortinet Cybersecurity Certificate.
- Build Career Skills: Practice job interviews, gain teamwork experience, and learn how the technology industry works.
- Help Rural Communities: Find great ways to bring faster, more reliable Internet to rural Iowa towns.
Member Benefits & Expectations
To earn your spot on the council, you will commit to a few fun and educational projects from September to April.
What you will do:
- Attend monthly meetings: Join our online and phone sessions as much as possible to stay connected.
- Complete a hands-on project: Interview a local tech leader OR complete a cybersecurity service project.
- Share your tech ideas: Partner with Iowa State University’s Iowa Cyber Hub to share youth tech insights.
What you will get:
- Introductions to business leaders: Connect with top business and technology executives right here in Iowa.
- Local career exploration: Discover exciting local jobs that match your personal tech interests.
- Expert career advice: Receive valuable tips, mentorship, and networking opportunities from our guest speakers to help you get started in the career of your choice.
- Stronger tech awareness: Build a better understanding of the world around you and the technology moving Iowa forward.
2026/2027 SYBAC Meeting Dates
- Tuesday, September 8 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, October 13 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, November 10 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, December 8 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, January 12 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, February 9 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, March 9 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, April 13 - In-person meeting at the Capitol Complex in Des Moines.
Exploring Iowa’s Digital Infrastructure
ICN hosted its Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC) on April 14 for discussions and tours at the Capitol Complex and a local data center.
Students earned their Fortinet Cybersecurity Certificate
Congratulations to the members of the Iowa Communications Network’s (ICN) Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC) for completing their Fortinet cybersecurity training!
Questions
Contact Lori Larsen for questions about the council.