Friday’s Advanced Technical Education conference kicked off with a keynote from Allyson Knox, Senior Director of Education Policy and Programs for Microsoft. Knox focused on a new federal bill introduced last month that will build cybersecurity training at community colleges.
Knox led off by complimenting the work of NSF grantees. In D.C. we talk about these ideas, but you are out there doing the work, she said. You collaborate in tough circumstances and I thank you for that.
Recognizing that cybersecurity is embedded in every industry, including aerospace, defense and manufacturing, Knox shared details on the National Community College Cybersecurity Challenge Act (HR 8970), introduced on September 19th of this year. The bill will expand the talent pipeline in cybersecurity, concentrating on the power and opportunity of community colleges.
The bill emphasizes three main goals:
- Bring on skilled cybersecurity faculty at every community college
- Provide an affordable path to cybersecurity associates degrees
- Offer more work-based learning experiences provided by the private sector, including work-study, internships and apprenticeships
The bill provides $1.4 billion over 5 years, with $250 million going to states annually. States will develop plans, offer subgrants to community colleges and find a 50% match of funds or in-kind contributions. A national entity will be awarded $150 million to establish a national cybersecurity innovation fund that will include grants to community colleges.
The bill has garnered national support from foundations and coalitions in cybersecurity.
Read more on the bill.