The placer cybersecurity talent pipeline collaborative (pctpc) aims to enhance the cybersecurity workforce in placer county, california, by engaging employers and educators to build talent and address…

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Science, Technology, Business and/or Education Outreach Federal Grant Program (CFDA 11.620), awarded a $318,706 Cooperative Agreement to the Sierra College Foundation to enhance the cybersecurity workforce in Placer County, California. The Placer Cybersecurity Talent Pipeline Collaborative (PCTPC) project aims to engage employers and educators to build talent and address skill shortages through a six-strategy framework. Key activities include holding convenings, promoting the project, expanding cybersecurity education access, and conducting outreach to underserved communities. Expected outcomes include increased dual enrollment cybersecurity courses, an expanded partner network, and a more resilient and inclusive cybersecurity workforce. The project is expected to run from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2026.

Activities

The activities involve holding additional cybersecurity talent pipeline management (TPM) convenings to advance strategies and focusing on partner engagement, project promotion, and expanding cybersecurity education access with ramps support. Outreach events will target potential students and their families, particularly in underserved neighborhoods, to promote local education opportunities and address disparities in educational attainment and economic status.

Expected outcomes

Access and expansion of dual enrollment cybersecurity courses between local high schools and sierra college, strengthening the talent pipeline. The placer cybersecurity talent pipeline collaborative (pctpc) will enhance efforts to expand its network, strengthen the cybersecurity talent pipeline, and drive economic growth in placer county, leading to a more resilient and inclusive cybersecurity workforce. Progress will be measured through the completion of the cybersecurity TPM framework, identification of key cybersecurity positions and staffing needs, and collaboration with education stakeholders. Additionally, the pctpc will create marketing materials, hold community outreach events, train instructors, and implement expanded cybersecurity courses in high schools, while continuing regular meetings to ensure success and address challenges. Success in this project will result in US participation and recognition on a global cybersecurity platform. Mappings of content will provide improved insight on tasks, knowledge, skills, and competencies required in the cybersecurity workforce. Further, the project will provide NIST with a case study built to test and operationalize its frameworks as central tools for recruiting, training, and forming cybersecurity talent.

Intended beneficiaries

The beneficiaries of the placer cybersecurity talent pipeline collaborative?s (pctpc) efforts include regional employers seeking skilled cybersecurity professionals, educational institutions involved in training, and local students, especially those from underserved neighborhoods, who gain access to enhanced cybersecurity education and career opportunities.

Subrecipient activities

There are no planned subawards.