Last Updated on June 28, 2026 11:07 am
Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute's Information Technology — Cybersecurity program has earned designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) from the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Dr. Brian Morris, Dean of Business, Technology and Engineering programs accepted the certification on behalf of the college at a special ceremony during the annual CAE in Cybersecurity Community Symposium.
Earning the Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designation requires a lengthy application process and rigorous program standards to ensure that students receive a quality education informed by the latest national standards and that graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to be successful in the field of cyber defense.
New Director: John Early
In addition to earning this prestigious national designation, CCC&TI's Information Technology program also has a new director at the helm, Mr. John Early. Early is a native of Western North Carolina and brings more than two decades of experience in information technology, curriculum development and teaching to the role.
Early earned both his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and a Master's Degree in Technology Systems with a focus in information security from East Carolina University. In addition to his degrees, Early has a wealth of experience in a variety of information technology functions including overseeing operations, cybersecurity, compliance, and strategic planning across a multi-county region. His experience in the field includes hands-on technical roles in systems administration and programming, as well as leadership positions in infrastructure, security, and data initiatives.
Early has also spent more than a decade teaching and developing curriculum in cybersecurity, networking, and data analytics, leading bootcamps and workforce training programs for employers, industry partners, healthcare providers and more.
Early says that his interest in information technology started early and over time he developed a passion for cybersecurity and protecting the systems that people rely on every day, especially in healthcare and education. “What really pulled me into the field was the ability to solve real problems using technology,” he said. “I've always appreciated that IT is a field where you're constantly learning, adapting, and improving and that has kept me engaged throughout my career.”
“That combination of real-world experience and teaching has really shaped my approach to developing future IT professionals,” said Early. “I was especially interested in the opportunity to help grow and shape CCC&TI's Information Technology programs and pathways. By bringing together industry-relevant curriculum, hands-on learning, and a strong alignment with employer needs, CCC&TI is in a great position to make a real impact in the region, and I wanted to be part of that.”
Early says that the future for IT professionals is incredibly strong. “Technology continues to evolve rapidly and organizations in every industry need skilled professionals to manage and secure their technology systems,” he said. “For students considering this field, CCC&TI offers practical, career-focused pathways that emphasize hands-on learning, real-world tools and industry certifications that employers are actively looking for. Students aren't just learning theory, they're building skills they can immediately apply in the workforce.”
“CCC&TI provides a supportive environment where students can start at any level and grow into high-demand careers without taking on overwhelming debt,” Early said. “Whether someone is just starting out or looking to transition into IT, this program is designed to meet them where they are and help them succeed.”
Registration and Fall Semester
For more information on CCC&TI's Information Technology programs and pathways, upcoming courses, registration, financial assistance and more, visit cccti.edu or call 828-726-2200 (Caldwell) or 828-297-3811 (Watauga). Fall Semester begins on August 17, 2026.
📷 Pictured with the new certification is Dr. Brian Morris, Dean of Business, Technology and Engineering programs at CCC&TI, left, with Information Technology Director John Early. (CCC&TI)
