Students Get an Inside Look at Tech and Cybersecurity Careers During a Trip to McDonald’s Global Headquarters

As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, City Colleges of Chicago cybersecurity students had the opportunity to connect with cybersecurity professionals, apprentices, and executive leaders during a special visit to McDonald’s Global Headquarters. In partnership with City Colleges’ Economic and Workforce Innovation team, Kennedy-King College’s Tech Launchpad, and McDonald’s Global Technology team, about 30 students joined a Cybersecurity Early Talent Panel featuring current and former cybersecurity apprentices. During the discussion, students heard firsthand about career pathways into cybersecurity, the skills needed to succeed, and the value of apprenticeship opportunities in launching technology careers. The panel offered students a candid look at professional growth, workplace experiences, and the many routes available into the cybersecurity industry.

Students also had the opportunity to hear from and participate in a question-and-answer session with McDonald’s Chief Information Security Officer, providing a rare opportunity to engage directly with an executive cybersecurity leader. This conversation helped students better understand how cybersecurity supports a global organization and the critical role security professionals play in protecting business operations, customers, and digital infrastructure.

The visit included guided tours of McDonald’s headquarters, and networking opportunities which allowed students to connect with cybersecurity professionals, ask questions about careers and certifications, and gain insight into industry expectations and emerging trends.

Events like this demonstrate the power of industry partnerships in preparing students for high-demand technology careers and provide real-world learning experiences that help students pursue careers in cybersecurity and technology.