Back to top

About the Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC)

The Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC) brings together Iowa high school students (grades 10–12) to research and discuss critical topics related to broadband, Internet, and technology careers across the state. Members meet monthly to identify effective strategies for improving connectivity, gain access to specialized cybersecurity curriculum, and provide youth input that directly shapes efforts to create a more connected Iowa.

2026/2027 Industry Experts & Topics

September: ICN Executive Director Ryan Mulhall: Our students heard a behind-the-scenes look at state telecom. Between sharing free coding resources, mapping out our big projects for the year, and building those early student-to-mentor connections, this group is already hitting the ground running.

October: An exclusive virtual learning session focused on cybersecurity. Guest experts Elizabeth from ProCircular and ICN Security Architect Mike joined the group for an advice-packed discussion on what it really takes to work in security today. The session offered valuable perspective on the industry while inspiring students to dream big and pursue their tech goals.

November: Rural healthcare connections and telehealth presented by UnityPoint

December: Cybersecurity presented by PC Matic, Corey Munson

January: Rural Connectivity and Digital Inclusion, Connected Nation

February: Coding activity presented by Kyle Kuhlers

March: Agriculture Technology presented by John Deere

April: In-person session at the Capitol Complex, Des Moines.

Back to top

Highlighted SYBAC Resources

Flexbox Froggy

Flexbox Froggy is a fun, browser-based game with no login required. It teaches CSS Flexbox fundamentals through interactive puzzles, allowing students to visually grasp how layout properties work.

TryHackMe

TryHackMe is an online platform that helps you learn cybersecurity and ethical hacking. It provides  interactive hands on 'rooms' where you can practice real world skills in a safe environment. It's an engaging way to build a strong skill set for a thrilling career path.

CodePen

CodePen is a code playground that works instantly in your browser. It lets students test ideas and see live changes to their code right away, saving time, and simplifying the learning process without needing a separate editor.

W3Schools

W3Schools is a free resource for developers, offering a variety of web development courses and free coding templates. It features the TryIt Editor, allowing users to modify examples, test, and run code safely. W3Schools aims to provide straightforward and interactive learning experiences for all skill levels, using clear code examples and visuals to explain concepts.

YouTube

Using the YouTube training tool individuals can learn from others by watching tutorials, accessing linked resources, and engaging with communities.

Sololearn

Learning to code is simplified with Sololearn with interactive, hands-on courses.

Back to top

2026/2027 Project Highlights

Coming soon

Back to top