This project will expand and strengthen cybersecurity education and workforce development pathways across the inland empire/desert region of SAN bernardino in california to address an anticipated…

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded a $300,000 Cooperative Agreement under the Science, Technology, Business and/or Education Outreach program (CFDA 11.620) to the San Bernardino Community College District, operating through Crafton Hills College, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2027. The award funds the development and implementation of a comprehensive cybersecurity education and workforce development initiative designed to address anticipated 11% growth in cybersecurity occupations across the Inland Empire/Desert region of San Bernardino County, California.

The primary deliverables include the development of seven new cybersecurity courses aligned with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Workforce Framework (NICE Framework), integration of industry-recognized certification preparation into curriculum, expansion of NetLab+ virtual laboratory environments, and launch of registered apprenticeship programs with regional employers. The program will establish partnerships with K-12 schools, regional employers, community organizations, and universities to provide internships, apprenticeships, bootcamps, and career exploration events. Expected outcomes include enrollment of 50 students, award of 40 industry-recognized credentials, placement of 15 students in apprenticeships or internships with at least three new employer partners, and achievement of an 80% employment rate among program completers in cybersecurity-related roles. The initiative prioritizes underrepresented populations including veterans, women, rural learners, first-generation college students, and low-income individuals.

Activities

Crafton hills college will develop and implement a cybersecurity apprenticeship program aligned with the NIST nice framework, including seven new courses, certification prep, netlab+ virtual labs, and structured work-based learning. The college will partner with regional employers, k-12 schools, community organizations, and universities to provide internships, apprenticeships, bootcamps, and career exploration events while expanding faculty and launching targeted outreach efforts.

Expected outcomes

The program aims to enroll 50 students, award 40 industry-recognized credentials, place 15 students in apprenticeships or internships, and engage at least three new employer partners. These efforts will enhance job readiness, increase credential completion, and support an 80% employment rate among program completers in cybersecurity-related roles.

Intended beneficiaries

The primary beneficiaries are students from the inland empire/desert region, with a focus on veterans, women, rural learners, first-generation college students, and low-income individuals. Regional employers and the broader community will also benefit from a stronger cybersecurity workforce pipeline, improved job alignment, and long-term economic stability.

Subrecipient activities

There are no planned subawards.