May 22nd 2024.
PROPEL, an innovation hub dedicated to supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), has taken a groundbreaking step with the launch of the PROPEL HBCU Cybersecurity Consortium. This groundbreaking initiative is the first of its kind and aims to equip future professionals with the necessary skills to navigate the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity. In collaboration with Southern Company, the consortium brings together academia, industry, and government to serve as a central hub for HBCUs to align their curricula with industry needs, while also remaining adaptable to the shifting demands of cybersecurity.
According to PROPEL President Dr. Lisa Herring, the cybersecurity sector is facing a shortage of diverse talent, with only nine percent of professionals being Black. In a press release, she stated, "We're cracking the code in a sector that is grossly underrepresented by diverse talent and an industry in need of a greatly expanded workforce." The HBCU Cybersecurity Consortium aims to address this issue by promoting collaboration, leadership, innovation, and foresight among its members.
The HCC offers a range of benefits, including access to industry trends, emerging technologies, and training opportunities. The consortium also consists of a resource hub, professional development programs, accelerated learning experiences, and a workforce pipeline. As Southern Company President and CEO Chris Womack expressed, "Leveraging the insights, tools, resources, and access to real-world opportunities that industry and government entities can bring to the table now will help further develop and enrich the transformative skills our future workforce must have...to protect our critical infrastructure and be better prepared to face the cyber challenges ahead."
One of the key components of the HCC is the opportunity for students to engage in real-life research, work experiences, and collaborations with industry professionals. This is made possible through partnerships with corporate entities and industry experts, with the goal of cultivating a pipeline of qualified cybersecurity professionals. The consortium also offers two year-long programs: the Faculty Fellows track, which focuses on upskilling cybersecurity educators, and the Student Accelerator, an immersive experience for advancing skills, knowledge, and career readiness.
The HCC currently includes 32 HBCUs, such as Howard University and Stillman College, that offer cybersecurity curricula and degree programs. The full list of participating institutions can be found on the PROPEL website. This launch comes at a crucial time, as HBCUs have been receiving increased support and investment, such as the recent influx of funding for student newsrooms at 10 HBCUs. PROPEL's commitment to empowering HBCUs and promoting diversity in the cybersecurity sector is a promising step towards a more inclusive and skilled workforce.
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