A new partnership between Virginia Tech and Northern Virginia Community College offers students in the Washington, D.C. area a path to a degree in cybersecurity.
Originally launched by Virginia Tech in the fall of 2019, the joint program known as BIT-Cyber is a work-based course of study in cybersecurity and analytics within the university's Business Information Technology major. The work-based method of teaching allows students to put what they learn in the classroom into practice with real-life experiences.
NVCC has been expanding its footprint in the tech field. The community college announced in March 2022 that a $5.1 million data center lab would be constructed at its Woodbridge campus as part of the school's Workforce Development Center.
The goal of the program seeks to fill some of the 64,000 openings in the cybersecurity field in the Greater Washington D.C. area, including Northern Virginia.
Because of the program's online accessibility, many who would not have been able to take such classes without physically attending the university's Blacksburg campus have benefited from the program.
According to an impact study by Virginia Tech's Pamplin College of Business, 80 percent of those beneficiaries have been born outside of the U.S. The majority of the students, about 95 percent, are citizens of the United States while the remaining students hold green cards.
"It is my privilege to help serve a population that would not normally have an opportunity to access a Virginia Tech undergraduate degree," said Program Director Svetlana Filiatreau in a comment on the Virginia Tech website. "BIT-Cyber has positioned Virginia Tech to reach a very diverse student population, who are often unable to come to our Blacksburg campus due to their unique circumstances."
Since the coronavirus pandemic, educational institutions such as Virginia Tech and NVCC have further adapted their online class offerings in order to accommodate students. Many of these offerings have benefited students across the social-economic spectrum giving them access they may not have gotten prior to the pandemic.
Potomac Local News recently reported on Germanna Community College's College Everywhere program which has shown high success rates among male students, particularly African-American male students. The number of male students graduating from educational institutions like Virginia Tech and Germanna had been on the decline for several decades.
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The “Souper Bowl” returns to Historic Downtown Manassas for First Friday on February 7, 2025, with a sold-out crowd ready to sample soups from top local restaurants. Attendees will explore downtown, tasting a diverse selection of soups—from classic Tomato Basil Bisque to bold Pork Belly Ramen and Cocoa Cloud Dessert Soup—served at various businesses. Participants will vote for their favorite, crowning one soup the ultimate winner. With new contenders and returning favorites, the event promises a flavorful journey. Missed out this year? Stay tuned for next year’s Souper Bowl and more exciting First Friday events in Manassas.
Award-winning brand Always Flavored is relocating across the street from 610 to 619 Caroline St., with plans to open by March 31, 2025. The move allows for an expanded selection of hot sauces, seasonings, and gourmet products, plus tastings and events.
The announcement comes as the brand celebrates recent award wins:
Ritabeata’s Mild Sauce – 2nd place (International Flavor Awards)
Peri Peri Sauce – 3rd place (2025 Scovie Awards)
A grand opening celebration is planned.
In this Potomac Local News Podcast episode, host Uriah Kiser sits down with Craig Wade, President of the Prince William Association of Realtors, and Matthew Rathbun, President-Elect of the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors. They discuss the latest trends in the local real estate market, the impact of rising interest rates, and the challenges first-time homebuyers face in Northern Virginia.
The conversation also dives into the region’s housing inventory, with insights on the growing demand for homes and the lack of affordable options, especially in areas like Prince William, Fredericksburg, and Stafford. Craig and Matthew share their predictions for 2025, the future of smart growth, and the importance of balancing development with affordability.
Looking for a furry friend who can steal your heart? Look no further than Chloe, the 5-year-old Maremma Sheepdog, waiting for her forever home at the Prince William County Animal Shelter.
Chloe isn’t just any dog—she’s an Italian superstar in livestock protection, with a personality as impressive as her heritage. This lovable lady may have a calm and gentle demeanor, but don’t let her laid-back attitude fool you—she’s a heart-stealer extraordinaire!
Chloe is ready to charm her way into your home, and she’s patiently waiting for someone special to give her the love she deserves. Are you ready to make room for Chloe in your life?
Visit the Prince William County Animal Shelter today to meet Chloe and other wonderful animals available for adoption. For more information or to contact the shelter, visit www.pwcva.gov/department/animal-services. Don’t wait—come see Chloe today, and you might just find your new best friend!
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
