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George Mason University’s College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) joined forces in 2023 with regional educational partners to launch the Accelerated College and Employability Skills (ACCESS) Academy, an innovative initiative connecting high school students in grades 9–12 with real-world IT education and career experiences.
The ACCESS Academy builds a structured pathway from classroom learning to career readiness through college-level coursework, industry mentorship, and hands-on training in state-of-the-art IT and cybersecurity facilities.
In fall 2026, the program will transition to Fuse at Mason Square, positioning students at the heart of George Mason’s innovation ecosystem and expanding opportunities for collaboration with public and private sector partners.
Getting IST in front of students
The Information Sciences and Technology (IST) Department contributed to ACCESS Academy’s “Back to School” event at Fuse this October, welcoming Academy students and their families with presentations and videos introducing the department’s programs. Capstone project posters and IT career videos were on display, and IST seniors joined the event to share their experiences with the high school students.
During the event, faculty highlighted the IST Department’s offerings, including Computer Information Systems and Advanced Computer Information Systems, while students explored what it means to study IT at a research university such as George Mason. Faculty showed them how George Mason’s IT pathways connect directly to college credit and future careers.
“We were proud to inspire our youth, sharing opportunities gained from an IST degree,” said Professor Gail Therrien, who organized the event.
Regional collaboration for workforce readiness
ACCESS Academy represents a strategic partnership among three leading institutions in the region, leveraging the strengths of each to build a sustainable talent pipeline for Virginia’s growing technology workforce. The collaboration aligns academic curricula with industry needs, ensuring that students graduate with both foundational knowledge and practical experience in emerging technical domains.
Its vision has always been to immerse students in meaningful, hands-on learning that connects academic study with real-world application.
The Academy’s Innovation Advisory Group, consisting of the College of Education, CEC, and many corporate and government executives, guides curriculum development and ensures that course content reflects the rapidly evolving demands of the IT field.
Fuse a perfect fit for immersive learning aims
“The transition to Fuse at Mason Square is a perfect fit for the mission of ACCESS Academy, which aims to create an immersive learning environment that bridges theory and practice,” said Therrien.
The Academy’s public-private partnership model allows students to engage directly with employers and mentors, gaining exposure to real industry challenges while earning college credit.
By connecting students with the cutting-edge technology at Fuse, ACCESS Academy embodies George Mason’s mission to prepare students to lead in technology-driven industries. The program serves as a model for collaborative, inclusive, and future-focused education, helping young learners see themselves as both college students and professionals from day one.