Cooperative agreement for the hawaii cybersecurity education and workforce development project (with the kauai economic development board):purpose: the overarching objective of the hawaii…

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded a $326,086 cooperative agreement under the Science, Technology, Business and/or Education Outreach program (CFDA 11.620) to the Kauai Economic Development Board (KEDB) to fund the Hawaii Cybersecurity Education and Workforce Development Project. This initiative aims to create a sustainable pipeline of cybersecurity professionals in Hawaii through various activities, including awareness and education programs, employment development, scholarship support for ten Hawaiians to pursue higher education, and a skills-based hackathon. The project will also involve $211,000 in subawards for contracted activities. The key products and services to be delivered under this cooperative agreement include developing comprehensive educational and workforce development programs to empower individuals with cutting-edge cybersecurity skills and knowledge, fostering a dynamic ecosystem to address immediate cybersecurity gaps, and ensuring the continual cultivation of a highly skilled and adaptable cybersecurity workforce in Hawaii.

Activities

The envisioned project will encompass various components, including initiatives focused on awareness and education, employment development, scholarship support, and the coordination of a hackathon. During the hackathon, participants will showcase their cybersecurity skills to potential employers. These planned activities are strategically aligned with the nice strategic plan, ensuring a cohesive and purposeful approach to addressing cybersecurity challenges.

Expected outcomes

The successful implementation of this project is anticipated to lead to a notable rise in the number of individuals entering the cybersecurity career field. Moreover, the project aims to award ten hawaiians with full-ride scholarships, enabling them to pursue higher education. Lastly, the hackathon will serve as a valuable tool, allowing participants to showcase their cybersecurity talents to potential employers and preparing them for immediate employment opportunities.

Intended beneficiaries

The public will have access to a tuition scholarship and resources to equip them to enter the cybersecurity workforce.

Subrecipient activities

Subawards of $211,000.00 for various contracts. Every proposed consulting agreement covers all expenses related to travel, accommodation, and meals.