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A graduate of the �Ӱ������� Cybersecurity program is one of only five students to be offered an apprenticeship with aerospace and defense technology company Northrop Grumman.

Mark Peralta, a �Ӱ������� native and South High School graduate, earned his associate degree in 2024. He is continuing his education with PCC’s bachelor-degree program in Cybersecurity and expects to graduate in spring 2026.

The 13-month paid apprenticeship at Northrop Grumman’s Colorado Springs facility offers participants an opportunity to be mentored and coached by hiring managers, expand their skills, learn about the company and its jobs, and potentially earn government security clearance with the goal of becoming a regular employee if a position becomes available.

Peralta, 37, came to PCC after a life-altering experience. In 2021, he contracted a severe case of COVID and was hospitalized for several months. After recovering fully, he knew a change was needed.

“It made me buckle down and decide to better my career so I can move up in this world – not just for me, but for my family, as well,” he said. “I always had a thing for tech and IT, so I figured this would be a profound way to build up my skills.”

With ongoing support from his family and best friend, he found his niche in the Cybersecurity program and joined the Esports Club, which led to several other extracurricular opportunities – joining a podcast, learning how to solder, and joining a Pokémon card tournament even though he had no idea how to play the game.

“It's been a great experience. I’ve met amazing instructors and fellow students,” Peralta said. “There are so many things to learn and do at PCC, not just the courses. I believe the fun experiences made going to campus worthwhile.”

After earning his associate degree, he was hired at Second-61, a computer networking company in Florence.

“I believe this job helped me achieve the Northrop apprenticeship goal,” he said. “If it wasn’t for them and the experience they’re providing me, I may not have gotten the opportunity.”

Now Peralta is eager to focus on Northrop Grumman and the career possibilities it may bring.

“PCC has prepared me for this since day one,” he said. “I studied hard and earned this position, in my opinion, so I am excited to finally go forth and represent PCC and make the program proud.”