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2026 Digital Trust Workforce Development Program:  Chicago, IL

Build career-ready skills in IT Audit, IT Risk, and Artificial Intelligence through a structured, industry-aligned training program designed to open doors to in-demand technology and cybersecurity-adjacent roles.

Applications are open- Program Dates: (coming soon)

Create a free ISACA account or Log in with ISACA to apply:

Start an application (or) Access a draft application (make this a hyperlink to the application)

Program Offerings:

The Digital Trust Workforce Development Program will provide an innovative, collaborative approach to create a pipeline for IT Audit and IT Risk workforce. ISACA provides industry-recognized curriculum, certificates, certifications, and training that are well positioned to support the IT Audit and IT Risk workforce demands. 

Participants begin by selecting a career track—IT Audit or IT Risk—then complete AI Fundamentals, tailored to their chosen pathway with real-world examples and applied learning. 

Program Structure (How It Works)

  1. Complete the career track assessment tool to help guide your track selection: Self-Assessment

  2. Choose a Career Track
    Start with either IT Audit Fundamentals or IT Risk Fundamentals to build a strong foundation in how organizations manage technology, controls, and risk.

  3. Apply AI in Context
    After completing the track-specific course, learners take AI Fundamentals, where artificial intelligence concepts are taught through audit- and risk-focused use cases.

This sequence ensures learners understand why AI matters and how it is used in real organizational settings.

Track 1: IT Audit Fundamentals → AI Fundamentals (Audit Focus)

Who this track is for

This track is ideal for individuals interested in technology assurance, compliance, and accountability, including those who enjoy structured analysis and understanding how systems support business and regulatory requirements.

What you will learn

IT Audit Fundamentals

  • How organizations use IT systems to support financial and operational processes

  • Core concepts of internal controls and audit evidence

  • The role of IT audits in compliance, governance, and risk management

  • How auditors evaluate access controls, system changes, and data integrity

AI Fundamentals (Audit-Focused)

  • How AI is used in automated controls and monitoring

  • Audit considerations for AI-driven systems, including bias and explainability

  • Risks and controls related to AI-enabled decision-making

  • How auditors evaluate and document AI-related processes

Skills you’ll gain

  • IT audit and assurance fundamentals

  • Understanding of controls and compliance environments

  • Ability to support audit and assurance activities involving modern technologies

  • Awareness of how AI impacts audit processes

Jobs this track aligns with

Certificate holders of this track are prepared for roles such as:

  • IT Audit Associate

  • Technology Audit Analyst

  • Compliance or Controls Analyst

  • Internal Audit Support Specialist

  • SOX or Assurance Analyst

Track 2: IT Risk Fundamentals → AI Fundamentals (Risk Focus)

Who this track is for

This track is ideal for individuals interested in identifying, assessing, and managing technology-related risks, including cybersecurity, operational, and third-party risks.

What you will learn

IT Risk Fundamentals

  • How organizations identify and assess IT and operational risks

  • Core risk management and governance concepts

  • The relationship between technology, policy, and compliance

  • How risk teams support decision-making and risk mitigation

AI Fundamentals (Risk-Focused)

  • How AI introduces new operational, data, and governance risks

  • Managing and monitoring risks associated with AI systems

  • Model risk, third-party risk, and data privacy considerations

  • The role of risk professionals in AI oversight and governance

Skills you’ll gain

  • IT risk and governance fundamentals

  • Risk identification and assessment techniques

  • Understanding of compliance and regulatory expectations

  • Awareness of emerging risks related to AI technologies

Jobs this track aligns with

Certificate holders of this track are prepared for roles such as:

  • IT Risk Analyst

  • Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Analyst

  • Risk or Compliance Support Specialist

  • Technology Risk Coordinator

  • Entry-level Cybersecurity or Operational Risk Analyst

Why This Program Works

  • Career-first learning: Start with practical skills employers need

  • AI taught in context: Learn how AI applies to audit and risk—not in isolation

  • No cost to participants: Training, materials, and exams are provided

  • Industry-aligned credentials: Earn ISACA certificates recognized by employers

  • Professional support: Access mentoring and a global professional network

We will select 25  Chicago area applicants to receive weekly in-person classes facilitated by ISACA certified industry experts, job readiness workshops, certification exam prep, stipend for select participants who complete the program, and access to ISACA resources and training. 

Application Criteria:

Applicants must:

  1. To apply, you first need a free ISACA account.
  2. Be 18 years of age or older
  3. Have an interest in a career in IT Audit or IT Risk
  4. Reside within commuting distance of Chicago, IL
  5. Submit a completed application
  6. Have access to a computer with a reliable internet connection

This program does not require completion of high school or college.