The formation of a new college at a major public university is a monumental feat and certainly worth celebrating. The process requires years of research, needs assessments, instructional data, financial projections, operational plans, administrative readiness, fundraising, and more. When the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, announced its new College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies (CECS) had received final approval in 2023, PYA was excited about the accomplishment.
And when the college’s new degree and certificate programs were approved in 2024, PYA was particularly proud.
Early in the development of the new college, PYA was asked to be part of a group of Knoxville corporations to help develop the curricula for its new stackable certificates, which will be offered for the first time in fall 2024. Barry Mathis, PYA Managing Principal of IT Advisory Consulting, served on a CECS committee to advise the university on the Applied Cybersecurity stackable certificate as part of the new Innovative Transdisciplinary Studies major.
Stackable certificates make the college the first of its kind in the U.S., allowing students to customize their degrees to align their interests with career paths of the future. Each certificate is 12 credit hours, and three certificates earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the college.
The Applied Cybersecurity certificate will equip students with practical knowledge and skills in cybersecurity. It focuses on real-world applications of cybersecurity principles and practices, preparing students for entry-level positions in the industry.
“I was honored to represent PYA to advise UT leaders on the new degree programs,” Mathis said. “With the advancement of digital technology and artificial intelligence, the field of cybersecurity will become even more critical to safe operations for businesses around the world. I was pleased to help UT develop a certificate that will educate future industry leaders.”
Mathis is a recognized national expert in cybersecurity and information technology (IT) and highly experienced in IT systems strategy and software development. He advises PYA clients on complex IT solutions to address business opportunities while reducing IT risk. Following his service on the CECS committee, he accepted an invitation from the college to serve on its board of visitors, a strategic advisory group who provides insights on industry needs, education strategies, and potential growth areas to inform the curriculum and improve student experiences. The group also creates opportunities for students through internships, capstones, and other business engagements.
“Barry is a proven leader in many areas of IT and cybersecurity, and his service to UT is a testament to his dedication to providing better experiences, growth, and thought innovation to the university,” said PYA President and CEO Marty Brown. “PYA is in the business of relationships, and service in the community is an important way we demonstrate that core value.”
PYA was founded in Knoxville in 1983 and has had a decades-long relationship with UT. In 2023, PYA was named the Outstanding Industry Partner by the UT Haslam College of Business. Today, the firm has offices across the nation and clients in all 50 states and collaborates with many universities.
