Dallas College has launched what it calls a groundbreaking Bitcoin Mining Certification program designed to meet growing demand for skilled professionals in the cryptocurrency mining industry, as well to empower entrepreneurs and at-home innovators to break new ground in this evolving space.
Texas is home to five of the top 10 bitcoin mines in the U.S., and the state’s supportive regulatory environment continues to attract significant investment, fueling job creation and local economic growth, Dallas College said.
Dallas College cited the growing and leading presence of Texas-based Bitcoin mining operations, like this Riot Platforms facility in Corsicana. [Photo: Riot Platforms]
“At Dallas College, our mission is to provide innovative programs that align with rapidly expanding industries and meet the needs of Texas’ workforce. Our Bitcoin Mining Certification Program exemplifies our commitment to equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in cutting-edge fields and to inspire entrepreneurship in the mining community,” Justin Cunningham, associate vice chancellor of innovation at Dallas College, said in a statement.
Becoming ‘a proficient bitcoin and cryptocurrency miner’
Dallas College said the program is designed to ignite innovation for students from a wide spectrum of personal and professional backgrounds, offering expertise and equipment to help kick-start a successful business in the cryptocurrency industry. Graduates who seek industry employment could earn $60,000 to $120,000 annually.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with Dallas College in pioneering this essential workforce development and entrepreneurial innovation initiative,” Bryant Nielson, executive director of W3CB, said in a statement. “The W3CB Mining+ Certification validates an individual’s command of the knowledge and technical ability necessary to become a proficient bitcoin and cryptocurrency miner.”
Along with hands-on instruction, Bitcoin Mining program participants will receive powerful industry equipment and materials—including their own mining machine to take home, Dallas College said.
Enrollment highlights include:
- Cost: $4,000 (tuition assistance is available)
- Hands-on instruction: Intensive, practical training from industry experts
- Mining machine: Bitmain Antminer S19j Pro 110th (requires two 220v outlets to power and configure)
- Hearing protection: For safe learning
- Book: “Ultimate Bitcoin Mining Handbook”
- Industry-recognized certification: Web3 Certification Board (W3CB) Mining+ Certification through proctored exam
The intensive, 48-hour program begins next Tuesday, Dec. 10. Students will attend online lectures from 1-4 p.m. for the first four days (Dec. 10-13) and then move to either hands-on, classroom instruction for the final two days (Dec. 16-17) or an instructor led, at-home, Zoom session (Dec. 19-20), using their own bitcoin machine.
The curriculum
Dallas College said the Bitcoin Mining Certification Program includes a four-section curriculum designed to provide foundational and advanced knowledge in cryptocurrency mining.
“Fundamentals of Bitcoin and Crypto Mining” covers the basics of digital currencies and blockchain technology and gives insight into mining processes, hardware as well as the installation, configuration and optimization of software.
“Advanced Technical Aspects of Crypto Mining” explores mining hardware and performance metrics, and covers advanced techniques for software customization and automation, secure and efficient mining network setups, best practices for maintenance and resolving technical issues.
“Environmental Impact and Sustainability in Crypto Mining” focuses on energy consumption patterns, renewable energy sources, strategies for reducing environmental impact and engaging with local communities for sustainable practices.
“Economics and Investment Strategies in Crypto Mining” evaluates market dynamics affecting profitability, capital requirements, effective business plans and risk management strategies.
“As cryptocurrency mining continues to expand globally, the need for skilled professionals has never been greater within the U.S.,” said Ryan Williams, CEO of The Blockchain Academy. “By delivering this first-of-its-kind certification program, we’re not only meeting that demand but also paving the way for entrepreneurial innovation in the mining sector.”
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