Cyber Threat Training Course Strengthens the Energy Sector’s Defenses Across the Mid-South Region
LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS, August 7, 2024 – The Forge Institute, through it’s Emerging Threat Center (ET-ISAC), in collaboration with key regional partners, has successfully concluded the first Cyber Threat Training course, an ambitious initiative designed to bolster the cybersecurity defenses of regional energy infrastructure. Held across multiple locations in Arkansas earlier this summer, the training program also had participants from Missouri and Mississippi. This timely training aimed to equip grid-connected professionals with skills in threat hunting and risk assessment, specifically targeting vulnerabilities within industrial control systems.
This training initiative is supported by a strategic partnership encompassing academic, governmental, and private sector partners, including the Department of Energy (DOE), the Consortium for Cyber Innovation (CCI), UA Little Rock, the University of Arkansas and the Arkansas Electric Cooperatives. Funded by a $1 million grant from the DOE's Office of Cyber Security, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), the project focused on enhancing the cybersecurity defenses of energy utilities in Arkansas and the mid-South region.
"The collaboration among such distinguished partners underscores our collective commitment to safeguarding our critical energy infrastructure from cyber threats," said Lee Watson, Chairman & CEO, at Forge Institute. "These unique training opportunities allow professionals to gain hands-on experience in the latest cybersecurity practices, crucial for the protection of our vital utilities. We appreciate all our partners and of course, Senator John Boozman for his tireless support of these efforts."
The recent Cyber Threat Training course addressed the escalating concerns over cyber threats to critical energy infrastructure through a robust curriculum that included instructor presentations, practical hands-on labs, and a half-day exercise, all focused on providing invaluable insights into securing industrial control systems against potential cyberattacks.
The goal of the training is to foster a culture of continuous learning and collaboration among grid-connected professionals. By pooling resources and expertise, we can significantly advance our local, regional, and national cybersecurity capabilities.The success of this training initiative sets a new standard for cybersecurity education across the country. It is a testament to what can be achieved when we unite in our efforts to protect our nation's infrastructure.
“This continued collaboration between Forge Institute, the University of Arkansas, the Arkansas Electric Cooperatives and of course, UA Little Rock, further highlights our state’s strategic focus on aligning industry, government and academic partners on national security priorities. We’re excited to continue these services and together are building a robust pipeline of talent gaining experiences to counter the threats our industry partners face.” Philip Huff, PhD, Professor, Cybersecurity, UA Little Rock
Along with our partners, Forge Institute will replicate the program in other regions, further developing a skilled workforce capable of countering the evolving landscape of cyber threats to the energy sector. Future sessions are already being planned to accommodate the growing interest among professionals.
For more information about the Emerging Threat Center (ET-ISAC) and to sign up for membership and training, please visit https://www.forge.institute/etc. The ET-ISAC Membership Level is at no cost for eligible entities.
