CIAT to Offer Comprehensive AI Security Training as CompTIA Launches Industry’s First Dedicated AI Cybersecurity Certification
California Institute of Applied Technology (CIAT) is proud to announce the launch of specialized training programs for CompTIA SecAI+, a revolutionary new certification that addresses the critical intersection of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Set to officially launch on February 17, 2026, SecAI+ represents CompTIA’s first standalone certification focused specifically on AI security, and CIAT will be among the first institutions offering comprehensive preparation programs.
What is CompTIA SecAI+?
CompTIA SecAI+ (exam code CY0-001) is a mid-level cybersecurity certification designed for experienced security professionals ready to specialize in the rapidly expanding field of AI security. This credential validates two critical skill sets that organizations desperately need: the ability to secure AI systems from emerging threats and the expertise to leverage AI technologies to enhance security operations.
“The cybersecurity landscape is experiencing a fundamental transformation driven by artificial intelligence,” said [Name], Director of Cybersecurity Programs at CIAT. “Organizations are simultaneously deploying AI-powered security tools and building their own AI systems, yet very few professionals understand how to do both securely. SecAI+ addresses this critical skills gap, and CIAT is committed to preparing the next generation of AI security experts.”
Why SecAI+ Matters for Cybersecurity Professionals
The certification comes at a pivotal moment in the industry. As AI adoption accelerates across all sectors, security professionals face new challenges including adversarial machine learning attacks, model poisoning, data manipulation, and the need to protect increasingly complex AI infrastructure. Simultaneously, AI-driven security tools are revolutionizing threat detection, incident response, and security automation, requiring professionals who can effectively implement and manage these technologies.
SecAI+ is designed as a stackable credential that complements existing security certifications such as Security+, CySA+, and PenTest+ rather than replacing them. The certification is recommended for professionals with 3-4 years of IT experience, including at least 2 years of hands-on cybersecurity work.
What the Exam Covers
The SecAI+ certification exam tests competency across four comprehensive domains:
Basic AI Concepts Related to Cybersecurity (17%) – Foundational AI literacy including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and understanding AI-driven threats and security applications.
Securing AI Systems (40%) – The largest domain focuses on implementing controls to protect AI models, training data, and infrastructure from adversarial attacks, data poisoning, model manipulation, and inference attacks across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments.
AI-Assisted Security (24%) – Leveraging AI tools to enhance threat detection, automate incident response, correlate alerts, and optimize SOC operations through intelligent automation and behavioral analysis.
AI Governance, Risk & Compliance (19%) – Understanding global AI regulatory frameworks, implementing responsible AI practices, and ensuring ethical AI deployment aligned with standards such as GDPR and NIST’s AI Risk Management Framework.
CIAT’s SecAI+ Training Programs
CIAT’s specialized SecAI+ training will be integrated into multiple program tracks:
For Current Students: Students enrolled in CIAT’s Certificate in Cybersecurity and degree programs with cybersecurity concentrations will have access to AI security fundamentals training that establishes the foundation for pursuing SecAI+ certification. Our curriculum has been updated to include AI-driven threat detection, machine learning security basics, and hands-on experience with AI-powered security tools.
Dedicated SecAI+ Training Track: CIAT is launching a specialized 12-16 week intensive training program designed specifically for mid-career security professionals preparing for the SecAI+ exam. This program includes:
- Comprehensive coverage of all four exam domains
- Hands-on labs with industry-standard AI security tools and platforms
- Real-world projects securing ML pipelines and implementing AI-driven detection
- Expert instruction from certified professionals with dual AI and security expertise
- Exam voucher and retake included in program tuition
- Flexible evening and weekend schedules for working professionals
- Career services support and interview preparation for AI security roles
Professional Development for Working Professionals: Recognizing that many security professionals cannot commit to full-time programs, CIAT is offering flexible options including evening cohorts, weekend intensives, and hybrid learning formats that allow professionals to upskill without leaving their current positions.
Early Adoption Advantages
CIAT is accepting pre-registrations for its inaugural SecAI+ training cohort, which will begin in January 2026 ahead of the certification’s February 17 launch. Students who complete the program early will be positioned among the first wave of SecAI+ certified professionals, a significant advantage as organizations begin seeking this specialized expertise.
“Early adopters of emerging certifications consistently benefit from being recognized as pioneers in their field,” noted [Name]. “As AI security becomes increasingly critical to organizations across every industry, professionals who earn SecAI+ certification early will be positioned as subject matter experts with rare, highly valued skills.”
Career Opportunities in AI Security
SecAI+ certification prepares professionals for emerging roles that are rapidly growing across all sectors:
- AI Security Engineer
- AI-Enhanced SOC Analyst
- Machine Learning Security Specialist
- Security Architect (AI Focus)
- AI Governance & Compliance Specialist
- Threat Intelligence Analyst (AI-Driven Threats)
- Security Automation Engineer
Current market analysis indicates that professionals with AI security expertise command salary premiums of 15-30% over peers with traditional security skills alone, with demand far exceeding supply.
Prerequisites and Ideal Candidates
SecAI+ is designed for mid-career professionals who already have solid security foundations. Ideal candidates include:
- Security analysts, engineers, or architects with 2+ years of hands-on experience
- SOC analysts looking to specialize in AI-driven security operations
- Security professionals responsible for implementing or securing AI systems
- Compliance professionals handling AI governance requirements
- Professionals holding Security+, CySA+, or PenTest+ certifications seeking advanced specialization
Those earlier in their IT careers should focus on building foundational security knowledge through programs like CIAT’s Certificate in Cybersecurity before pursuing SecAI+.
Integration with CIAT’s Cybersecurity Curriculum
The addition of SecAI+ training represents a significant expansion of CIAT’s cybersecurity program offerings. The institution has updated its Certificate in Cybersecurity and degree programs to include AI security fundamentals, ensuring all students gain exposure to this critical domain even if they do not immediately pursue SecAI+ certification.
How to Learn More
Security professionals interested in CIAT’s SecAI+ training programs can:
- Visit the certification page: Complete program details, curriculum information, and tuition details.
- Schedule a meeting: Meet one-on-one with a CIAT advisor to discuss your background, career goals, and whether SecAI+ is the right next step for your professional development.
- Pre-register for early cohorts: Secure your place in CIAT’s inaugural SecAI+ training cohort beginning early 2026.
About CIAT
California Institute of Applied Technology (CIAT) is an accredited institution providing career-focused education in technology, cybersecurity, and other high-demand fields. CIAT’s cybersecurity programs combine comprehensive technical training with industry certifications, hands-on labs, and dedicated career services to prepare students for successful careers in information security. With physical locations in California and New Mexico, CIAT serves students through on-campus, online, and hybrid learning formats.
