California state university, SAN bernardino (csusb) and the california department of labor entered into a partnership to develop an empire cybersecurity initiative (ieci)

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded a $963,000 Project Grant (CFDA 11.617 - Congressionally-Identified Projects) to California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) to develop an Empire Cybersecurity Initiative (IECI). The funding will be used to create a dedicated security operations training center and provide critical technology upgrades to support advanced cybersecurity training activities. Key components of the project include new collaborative research projects in cybersecurity and next-generation broadband, specialized equipment for a cybersecurity operations training center, and flexible spaces for career preparation. The initiative aims to rapidly increase direct job placement in well-paying cybersecurity careers while providing students with real-world experience. The award period is from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2027.

Activities

The funding will provide tech upgrades to include new collaborative research projects in cybersecurity, advanced next generation broadband, specialized equipment for a training cybersecurity operations center, and flexible spaces for career preparation.

Expected outcomes

Successful outcomes include the development and completion of the tech hub dedicated space as well as the facilitation of new equipment purchases, installation, and implemented use.

Intended beneficiaries

Within the first 3 years of operation, IT is expected that student cohorts will have the cyber and AI experience and will be employed.

Subrecipient activities

The applicant intends to supplement their staff via contractor services, as needed.