Dallas, TX – The Michigan Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (MICE) and pepelwerk have announced a statewide partnership designed to prepare Michigan students for careers in cybersecurity, IT and digital infrastructure. Combining MICE’s statewide education network with pepelwerk’s work-to-skills matching technology and workforce tools, the partnership makes it even easier for students to move directly from classroom learning to real work experiences with employers who are actively building cybersecurity talent pipelines.
Cybersecurity workforce demand continues to grow nationwide, with organizations facing major talent shortages and growing skill deficits. Traditional career events and career-readiness programs often fall short by relying on resumes and previous job experience that early talent candidates do not yet have. MICE and pepelwerk are working to shift that model by focusing on skills, strengths and learning potential rather than work history.
Through the partnership, companies across Michigan can now offer structured learn-on-the-job opportunities including practicums, apprenticeships, internships and entry-level roles aligned to cybersecurity career pathways.
As part of the collaboration, eligible MICE students receive access to:
- A $1500 learning stipend funded through the MASA (Make America Skilled Again) grant
- pepelwerk’s Course Center for credential and skill development
- An AI Career Assistant to guide their career path and work readiness
Students also receive mentoring and coaching throughout their work experience to ensure they are professional, prepared and supported as they begin contributing to company teams and projects.
For employers, the program streamlines the early-talent recruiting and training process. Companies simply designate a point of contact, define job profiles with support from the pepelwerk Customer Success team and begin matching to qualified students who are actively preparing for cybersecurity roles.
This model creates a steady and consistent talent pipeline that supports both workforce continuity and long-term economic development across Michigan.
The partnership is now open to employers statewide who wish to participate in building the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Companies can begin in minutes by creating a Work Hub account through pepelwerk and connecting with the partnership support team.
About MICE
The Michigan Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (MICE) works with schools across Michigan to expand access to cybersecurity education, training and real-world learning opportunities. MICE partners with industry leaders to ensure students gain the skills and confidence to enter the cybersecurity workforce.
About pepelwerk
pepelwerk is an AI-driven career and workforce platform dedicated to bridging the gap between learning and work. By empowering individuals and organizations with personalized career tools, data-driven insights and strategic partnerships, pepelwerk ensures that every person has the opportunity to build a future-proof career.
For more information about pepelwerk visit https://pepelwerk.com.
pepelwerk Public Relations