October 27, 2023 at 12:04PM
The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded a $2.3 million grant to CyberTrust Massachusetts to support cybersecurity resiliency and develop a talent pipeline for Massachusetts colleges and universities. The grant will help strengthen the cybersecurity ecosystem, protect municipalities and small businesses from threats, and provide training and career development opportunities for students. CyberTrust Massachusetts will use the funding to establish Security Operations Centers to monitor and respond to cyber threats and also hire students for training and experience in the field. The grant aims to improve the cybersecurity posture of the state’s communities and businesses.
The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded a $2.3 million grant to CyberTrust Massachusetts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the cybersecurity ecosystem. The grant aims to support cybersecurity resiliency for Massachusetts communities and develop a talent pipeline at Massachusetts colleges and universities to encourage students to enter the field. The announcement was made at the seventh annual Massachusetts Cybersecurity Forum, held during Massachusetts Cybersecurity Month. Secretary Yvonne Hao of the Executive Office of Economic Development highlighted the importance of protecting municipal governments, small businesses, and community organizations from cybersecurity threats.
The grant is viewed as a game changer by Carolyn Kirk, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, the parent organization of the MassCyberCenter. Kirk emphasized the need to build a strong plan to address the complex and pervasive issue of cybersecurity. She outlined a multi-pronged approach that includes educating students about cybersecurity career opportunities, providing training on cutting-edge tools, and offering mentorship. Kirk believes that supporting CyberTrust Massachusetts will not only create new career opportunities for Massachusetts students but also strengthen cyber readiness statewide.
Peter Sherlock, CEO of CyberTrust Massachusetts, described the grant as more than financial support but rather a way to build on the institutional capital invested in the future of cybersecurity in Massachusetts. He spoke of creating a new model where experiential learning meets cutting-edge technology to fortify the state’s cybersecurity infrastructure and prepare the next generation of cyber professionals for meaningful careers.
The funding will enable CyberTrust Massachusetts to support cybersecurity resiliency for local governments through the establishment of Security Operations Centers (SOCs), which will be staffed by security experts. These centers will provide 24/7 services for municipalities that cannot afford to hire outside SOCs or security experts. Additionally, the grant will allow CyberTrust Massachusetts to hire students from affiliated academic organizations in Massachusetts, providing them with training, experience, and career development. CyberTrust Massachusetts will also continue providing key training tools for cyber ranges at community colleges and universities across the state, where students and young professionals can learn to respond to cyber threats in a simulated environment.
John Petrozzelli, Director of the MassCyberCenter at MassTech, emphasized the need to communicate to students the diverse opportunities available in cybersecurity and the valuable skills required. He believes that this approach will not only create new pathways for students and enable companies to hire new talent but also significantly improve the cybersecurity posture of municipalities and businesses in Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts Cybersecurity Forum, which took place alongside the announcement, brought together industry experts, academic leaders, and government officials to discuss partnerships, identify resources, and share innovative ideas. Key discussions included collaborations for cyber defense and how Massachusetts organizations are addressing the cybersecurity implications of artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
State Senator Michael Moore commended the Healey-Driscoll Administration for recognizing the importance of securing online systems and fostering a pipeline of cybersecurity professionals. He expressed confidence that the grant awarded to CyberTrust Massachusetts will contribute to building a better, stronger, and more secure Commonwealth.
The MassCyberCenter, launched in September 2017, aims to enhance opportunities in the Massachusetts cybersecurity ecosystem and strengthen the resiliency of the state’s public and private communities. The center collaborates with cities, towns, universities, and the private sector to build cyber awareness, implement best practices, leverage future workforce talent, and create a powerful cyber defense force.