The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency announced this week that it had issued a first-of-its kind $2 million award to two organizations developing cyber workforce training programs.  

NPower and CyberWarrior will use the money to address the cybersecurity workforce shortage around the country, said the agency.  

"CISA is dedicated to recruiting and training individuals from all areas and all backgrounds with the aptitude and attitude to succeed in this exciting field," said CISA Director Jen Easterly in a statement.   

"It’s not just the right thing to do; it’s the smart thing to do – for the mission and the country," Easterly said.  

WHY IT MATTERS  

CyberWarrior and NPower will collaborate with the agency to develop a three-year pilot program aimed at benefiting populations that may not have access to cybersecurity training – such as unemployed and underemployed people, and underserved communities in urban and rural areas.

The program aims to:   

• Develop and implement a comprehensive cybersecurity pathways retention strategy
• Deliver entry-level cybersecurity training through innovative training hubs
• Provide hands-on and professional development experience through apprenticeships
• Place talented individuals into entry-level cybersecurity jobs  

"CyberWarrior is honored to take part in the Cybersecurity Workforce Development and Training Pilot for Underserved Communities,” said CyberWarrior Foundation founder Reinier Moquete.   

"Working with CISA and other stakeholders, our 28-week bootcamp program will train persons from underserved populations for a career in cybersecurity," Moquete continued.   

"NPower’s cybersecurity program offers young adults and veterans the opportunity to advance their careers and deepen their specialties. This is particularly important for individuals coming from underrepresented communities that systemically lack access to those specialized skills," said Bertina Ceccarelli, CEO of NPower.  

"We are honored for the support from CISA, which will enable NPower to expand our reach to trainees across the country," added Ceccarelli.  

THE LARGER TREND  

In the face of escalating ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure – including hospitals and health networks – the federal government has ramped up its defense efforts.  

This summer, President Joe Biden issued a memo formally establishing the Industrial Control System Cybersecurity Initiative and directing agencies to develop cybersecurity performance goals for infrastructure.  

Legislators have also introduced several bills aimed at beefing up organizations' cyber muscles.  

And the private sector has stepped in too: Earlier this month, Google announced the launch of its Cybersecurity Action Team, aimed at guiding customers through the cycle of security transformation.  

ON THE RECORD  

"We’re best positioned to solve the cyber challenges facing our nation when we have a diverse range of thought bringing every perspective to the problem," said CISA's Easterly in a statement.

Kat Jercich is senior editor of Healthcare IT News.
Twitter: @kjercich
Email: kjercich@himss.org
Healthcare IT News is a HIMSS Media publication.