Bluegrass Community and Technical College Hosts “Hour of Cyber: Smart Security Workshop” for Area High School Students
Published on May 7, 2026
Lexington, KY – Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC) will welcome approximately 200 students
from five area schools on Friday, May 8, for the “Hour of Cyber: Smart Security Workshop,”
a hands-on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence learning experience hosted through
the college’s Cybersecurity for All initiative.
Funded by the National Science Foundation, Cybersecurity for All is a grant program designed to introduce high school students to the broad range of careers within the cybersecurity industry while building awareness of the growing role of artificial intelligence in the field.
During the workshop, students will rotate through interactive learning stations featuring introductory cybersecurity concepts, AI applications, and practical demonstrations designed to provide exposure to emerging technologies and in-demand workforce skills. Participating schools may attend either the 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. or 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. session. Transportation, lunch, and optional programming for teachers and counselors will be provided at no cost.
“Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming every industry, and higher education has a critical responsibility to ensure students are prepared to lead in this evolving digital landscape,” said Dr. Greg Feeney, President/CEO of BCTC. “Through innovative programs like Cybersecurity for All, BCTC is equipping students with early exposure to the technologies, critical thinking, and technical competencies that will define the future workforce.”
The workshop will be hosted at BCTC’s Newtown Campus, located at 500 Newtown Pike in Lexington.
“This event gives students an engaging, hands-on introduction to cybersecurity and demonstrates how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of digital security,” said Lauren Campbell, Assistant Dean of Business, Computers & Information Systems. “From interactive simulations to real-world cybersecurity scenarios, the workshop is designed to help students explore career pathways while building excitement around technology and innovation.”
Participating schools include:
- Bryan Station High School
- Bryan Station Middle School
- Frederick Douglass High School
- Lafayette High School
- The Hill
The Hour of Cyber workshop reflects BCTC’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to high-demand career pathways and strengthening Kentucky’s future workforce through experiential learning and community partnerships.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, May 8, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM OR 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Bluegrass Community and Technical College, Newtown Campus
500 Newtown Pike, Lexington, KY 40508
For more information about the Hour of Cyber workshop, please contact Lauren Campbell at lauren.campbell@kctcs.edu.
