The Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC) is an opportunity for high school students to research and discuss broadband and Internet topics, learn about Iowa technology companies, and discover technology careers. Meetings will take place monthly, throughout the school year, via video conference, teleconference, and/or in-person.
SYBAC is open to 10th β 12th grade Iowa students. Students will identify effective strategies to improve broadband connectivity and community environments, which could assist in advocacy efforts for rural Internet connectivity.
SYBAC Applications Open Soon
Applications will open on April 10.
Students can apply by submitting an application. A teacher needs to submit a recommendation on the student's behalf.
Contact Lori Larsen for questions.
SYBAC members will:
- Participate in SYBAC meetings (by phone and online).
- Receive access to cybersecurity curriculum.
- Interview a community executive about technology -- OR -- complete a community service project on the topic of cybersecurity.
- Share information with Iowa State University's Iowa Cyber Hub .
- Provide youth input on broadband efforts to create a connected Iowa.
- Serve as a council representative for a minimum of one (1) year, September β April.
Recent Presenters
- In March we had representatives from John Deere discuss the company's initiatives, the advancements in artificial intelligence they are pursuing, and their vision for the future. Their goal is to develop products that promote sustainability and provide innovative support to farmers. They also shared insights from their own career journeys and motivating students to consider a range of opportunities.
- In February, we had the chance to talk with Corey Martin from Iowa Hospital Association about the organization's collaboration with the ICN on the Iowa Rural Health Telecommunications Program (IRHTP). It focuses on providing closed and secure connectivity to the rural areas of Iowa. Corey also shared insights on how AI is bridging gaps in the healthcare sector and pushing technological advancements. He emphasized the significance of cybersecurity in protecting medical records and patient data, highlighting it as a promising career path.
- During January's session, the group connected with Kyle Kuhlers from Waterloo Community School District. We dove into the world of encryption, establishing baselines, and their importance in IT and cybersecurity. The group participated in two activities focused on steganography, which demonstrated how hidden messages can be sent. The goal was to provide a foundational understanding of encryption and cybersecurity.
- In December Scott Pappan, ICN's Chief Technology Officer, discussed the statewide network's critical infrastructure and daily technology applications. He shared insights on ICN's cybersecurity technologies, types of AI used in various sectors, and the future job landscape, emphasizing that AI will both replace certain roles and create new opportunities.
- In November, Matthew Miller from the Iowa Department of Transportation provided valuable insights into automated vehicles and traffic flow, along with some of his own drone piloting photos. He covered upcoming initiatives that involve AI, traffic management, and the integration of self-driving tech with civil engineering, road planning, and shared the workflow his team uses to get things done.
- In October, ProCircular discussed a variety of topics around cybersecurity, trust, privacy, and the values of his company. We also looked into different career paths and the debate between education and experience in tech jobs, highlighting how essential it is to develop soft skills and other talents to become a more well-rounded candidate.
- In September, ICN's Executive Director Ryan Mulhall led our discussion about the ICN and how the statewide network operates. We took some time for introductions, learned more about one another, and talked about what we expect and the events coming up for the council.
2024/2025 SYBAC Meeting Dates
- Tuesday, September 10 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, October 8 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, November 12 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, December 10 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, January 14 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, February 11 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, March 11 at 2 PM
- Tuesday, April 8 - In-person meeting at the Capitol Complex in Des Moines.
What Students Say About SYBAC...
"I have enjoyed learning about cybersecurity concepts and career opportunities throughout this year of meetings. Thank you for this opportunity to continue my education in STEM fields." - Henry S, 2021
"I enjoyed the myriad of presenters we were exposed to throughout the year. I also enjoyed the Fortinet training. Although I knew some about βBad Actorsβ and other related topics, I find value and peace of mind in walking away with my Fortinet Cybersecurity certificate." - Chase M, 2021
"I have had a lot of fun this year with SYBAC. I have enjoyed hearing information from other students and experts in different places in Iowa. The guest speakers were very interesting & informative." - Caden S, 2019
Questions
Contact Lori Larsen for questions about the council.