University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity earned a $9.6 million grant from the Department of War (DoW) CIO Cyber Academic Engagement Office to expand the National Cybersecurity Workforce Development program.
This is the largest federal grant awarded to the university to date.
The National Cybersecurity Workforce Development, CyberSkills2Work, program will expand the national cybersecurity workforce through 62 educational pathways. These pathways focus on hands-on skills and emerging work roles.
It will also prepare AI-enabled cybersecurity professionals for over 24 industry certifications and 41 work roles Those roles will align with DoW and industry needs. It will also provide free education for eligible transitioning military, first responders, veterans, military spouses and government personnel.
This program allows for training of veterans and public-private partnerships. Over the next two years, the program will prepare over 4,688 credentialed cybersecurity and AI professionals.
“Cybersecurity and AI are at the heart of our nation’s defense, economy and innovation,” said UWF Center for Cybersecurity Associate Vice President and Principal Investigator for the program, Dr. Eman El-Sheikh. “Through this historic award and the CyberSkills2Work program, we will equip professionals with future-ready skills that integrate cybersecurity and AI to build a workforce capable of protecting and shaping tomorrow’s digital landscape.”
The grant will fund three coalitions: UWF-led CyberSkills2Work Program; programs led by Purdue University Northwest and the University of Louisville. Additionally, the UWF-led coalition includes Columbus State University, Dakota State University, Florida International University, Metro State University, University of Arizona, University of South Florida – Cyber Florida and the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Click here for more information about UWF Center for Cybersecurity.
Additionally, click here for more information on the National Cybersecurity Workforce Development Program.