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Published 15 July 2025 

To meet the growing demand for skilled conservation technology professionals, the Connected Conservation Foundation (CCF), in collaboration with Cisco Networking Academy and Conservation Partners, has launched a new Protected Area Technician (PAT) Training Program.

As conservation becomes increasingly data-driven, real-time digital tools such as sensors, satellites, AI, and analytics, all based on secure connectivity, are transforming how we protect and restore nature. With this shift comes a growing need for skilled Protected Area Technicians to install, maintain and manage these systems and keep critical data flowing.

The PAT Training Program offers free online courses and training to empower the next generation of professionals with the necessary skills to set up and maintain a wide range of conservation technologies. These digital tools are crucial in tackling nature loss in today’s conservation environments, helping detect threats like poaching and deforestation, monitor environmental conditions, and supporting community-led stewardship of vital natural resources.

“We’re excited to welcome and support the next generation of conservation tech leaders,” said Doc Watson, Chairman and Founder of CCF. “As a Protected Area Technician, you’ll keep teams connected, systems secure, and data flowing, making a real difference on the ground.”

Free training, global access

The new PAT Program offers a fully online, flexible pathway from beginner to advanced certification, completely free of charge. Through 10 expert-led courses, learners will develop vendor-agnostic skills in sensor deployment, networking, off-grid infrastructure, cybersecurity, data management and integration — the essential toolkit for a tech-powered conservation career.

Course content developed by conservation and industry leaders 

Created in collaboration with leading professionals in conservation technology, the program is backed by globally recognised associates, including Cisco Networking Academy, The Open University, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, African Parks, EarthRanger (AI2), and WildInsight Labs, providing a network of expertise from conservation, technology and education. 

"Our decade-long partnership with CCF has evolved from protecting rhinos to safeguarding entire landscapes and now training new conservation champions in local communities," said Fran Katsoudas, Chief People, Policy & Purpose Officer from Cisco. "This is what real impact looks like - education and innovation coming together to protect the natural world and empower those who care for it."

The Open University has also been a key supporting partner in guiding CCF to embed Cisco Networking Academy content in the PAT curriculum, helping experts harness and utilise these courses.

Sponsorships for tech-powered conservation careers

In September 2025, CCF will also launch an open call for sponsored internships. In January 2026, judges will award twenty top applicants with fully funded sponsorships for hands-on field training. From this cohort, five graduates will win two-month internships at leading African protected areas, gaining real-world experience, expert mentorship and valuable industry connections.

Scholarship applications open in September 2025. Candidates are required to complete the online course before training begins in March 2026 and will be selected based on CVs, practical assessments and interviews, all reviewed by CCF’s technical experts.

10 years of innovation, enabling a digital ecosystem for impact

Over the past decade, CCF has partnered with local field collaborators and technology companies such as Cisco to implement cutting-edge conservation technologies to strengthen the protection and management of 35 conservancies across 15 countries. This collaboration advances nature-positive outcomes through a holistic digital approach, providing infrastructure alongside education for local communities, digital skills training and the creation of technology-based job opportunities. 

Development partners

These courses have been developed by practitioners with years of experience as protected area technicians and supported by organisations: