About Us

The AZ Cyber Initiative is a non-profit organization dedicated to unlocking career opportunities for Arizona students who are interested in cybersecurity as well other information technology (IT) disciplines. In partnership with similarly minded organizations and individuals, we offer a variety programs all designed to help students achieve their personal and professional goals.

Our Mission:

To create opportunities for Arizona high school students from all backgrounds to receive the inspiration, training, and support they need to pursue careers in cybersecurity and related fields.

Our Goals

Inspire

Motivate students to want to become leaders in cybersecurity, data management, and other IT fields 

Many paths

We support students looking to follow an established educational framework as well as those looking to chart a less traditional course.

Accessibility & Diversity

Promoting diversity and removing barriers to encourage students from all backgrounds to participate in our programs

Our Programs

Scholarship Program

The AZ Cyber Initiative is proud offer financial assistance to qualified Arizona high school students pursuing degrees or professional certifications in cybersecurity-related fields.

Mentorship Program

By having regular interactions with experienced mentors, students can obtain unique insights and important tools to help them find greater success. 

Cyber Bootcamps

Rigorous, one-week introductory courses for rising 10th-12th grade high school students interested in pursuing a career in a cybersecurity-related field.

Internship Program

The AZ Cyber Initiative is proud offer financial assistance to qualified Arizona high school students pursuing degrees or professional certifications in cybersecurity-related fields.

AZ CYBER’S MANAGEMENT & STAFF 

Manuel Felix

Manuel Felix

Founder and CEO

Thomas O'Kane

Thomas O'Kane

Chief Operating Officer

Samantha Soto-Sanchez

Samantha Soto-Sanchez

Creative Director

Crystal Beasley

Crystal Beasley

Executive Assistant

BOARD MEMBERS

Nick Andersen

Nick Andersen

Chief Information Security Officer - Public Sector at Lumen Technologies

Chris Campbell

Chris Campbell

Chief Strategist at Kroll and former Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Financial Institutions

Jenner Holden

Jenner Holden

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Axon

Pete Kim

Pete Kim

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Raytheon Missiles & Defense

Heather Monthie

Heather Monthie

Cybersecurity Architect, Author, & Podcaster

Bill Waynick

Bill Waynick

Director at Air Force Cyberworx, United States Air Force

 Bob Fabien Zinga

Bob Fabien Zinga

Head of Information Security, Directly/Information Warfare Commander, U.S. Navy Reserve

BOARD ADVISORS

Jessie Bustamante

Jessie Bustamante

Chief Advancement Officer at ACCEL

Greg Droeger

Greg Droeger

Attorney at Law, Law Offices of Gregory L. Droeger

Riley McIsaac

Riley McIsaac

Associate Director of Grants Development, Office of Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives, University of Arizona

 AZ CYBER’S CORPORATE & PHILANTHROPIC PARTNERS

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