The cyber center's grant opportunity aims to expand the cybersecurity workforce and enhance skills, credentials, and diversity

This Cooperative Agreement award from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Science, Technology, Business and/or Education Outreach program (CFDA 11.620), aims to expand the cybersecurity workforce and enhance skills, credentials, and diversity. The $330,000 award to the Del Mar College District will fund a multi-faceted initiative that includes hands-on training for small and mid-sized businesses, paid internships, upskilling of existing employees, and entrepreneurial resources. The program seeks to connect businesses, industries, and infrastructure employers with cybersecurity professionals through internships and apprenticeships, as well as establish an employee growth model to help companies upskill their workforce. Additionally, the initiative provides opportunities for cybersecurity students and professionals to develop practical skills and improve communication with business leaders. The program is expected to run from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2026.

Activities

This proposal outlines a four-part strategy to enhance cybersecurity skills and expand the workforce. IT aims to offer small and mid-sized businesses, particularly those in rural or underserved areas, innovative access to a skilled and diverse workforce, enabling them to implement cybersecurity measures. The program will serve as a trusted resource, connecting businesses, industries, and infrastructure employers with cybersecurity professionals through internships and apprenticeships. Additionally, IT will establish an employee growth model to help companies upskill their workforce, fostering loyalty and retention while boosting local cybersecurity expertise. The initiative also provides opportunities for cybersecurity students and professionals to develop practical skills and improve communication with business leaders, and IT seeks to contribute to the community and economy by supporting successful cybersecurity entrepreneurs.

Expected outcomes

The program aims to increase the number of cybersecurity professionals in the region and enhance the practical skills and experience of students entering the field. IT also seeks to raise awareness of regional resources available to support a growing cybersecurity workforce and ensure consistency by applying the nice framework.

Intended beneficiaries

The program will benefit cybersecurity students, both undergraduate and graduate, by providing them with practical skills. IT will also support employees looking to advance in cybersecurity roles, as well as businesses and infrastructure organizations in need of skilled professionals and cybersecurity resources. Additionally, rural communities, veterans, and underserved populations will gain access to these resources and partnerships.

Subrecipient activities

There are no planned subawards.