NEW YORK, N.Y. (April 30, 2024) – The Cyber Readiness Institute (CRI) is proud to participate in the Biden Administration’s National Cyber Workforce & Education Strategy, an important initiative aimed at fortifying the nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure and workforce. The White House Convening’s roundtable discussion, spearheaded by Assistant National Cyber Director Seeyew Mo, served as a platform for industry leaders to share best practices and insights to shape the implementation of this critical strategy.
As part of the roundtable discussions, CRI highlighted the importance of fostering strategic partnerships to advance cybersecurity initiatives both locally and nationally, citing its its participation in a pilot program tailored to the unique cybersecurity needs of small and medium-sized water utilities and wastewater treatment plants. Collaborations with organizations such the White House Office of the National Cyber Director (ONCD) have been instrumental in driving innovation, knowledge sharing, and resource mobilization.
Furthermore, CRI emphasized its partnerships with entities like the Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CyManII), which is receiving federal funding from the Department of Energy (DOE). CRI is working with CyManII to provide support and resources to help small and medium-sized manufacturers strengthen their defenses against evolving cyber threats.
“Strategic partnerships are the cornerstone of our cybersecurity initiatives,” added Karen S. Evans, managing director of CRI. “Through collaborative efforts and federal investments, we can effectively broaden pathways into cybersecurity roles and empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to thrive in this dynamic field.”
CRI also highlighted its innovative approaches to broadening pathways into cybersecurity roles, including its Cyber Leader Program and Cyber Coaches training. These initiatives aim to change behavior and organizational barriers as well as provide mentorship opportunities, empowering individuals to thrive in cybersecurity careers.
“Creating pathways into cybersecurity for people with little to no technical background is crucial for building a diverse and skilled workforce,” added Evans. “By addressing cultural barriers and providing opportunities for individuals to become Cyber Leaders or Cyber Coaches, we can ensure that people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to excel in this rapidly evolving field. Through our continued partnership with federal agencies, industry leaders, and stakeholders, CRI remains committed to advancing cybersecurity readiness and resilience for all.”
About the Cyber Readiness Institute
The Cyber Readiness Institute is housed within the Center for Global Enterprise, a New York-based non-profit applied research organization. CRI was launched in 2017 to address the underserved needs of the SMB community by focusing on human behavior and organizational culture. Its co-chairs and members — including Apple, Mastercard, Microsoft, Principal Financial Group, and T-Mobile — see a pressing need to provide resources, technology, and leadership to better secure SMBs against cyber threats. Their collaboration has shaped the development of free content and tools aimed at preparing for, responding to, and recovering from incidents affecting SMBs worldwide. Founding members ExxonMobil, General Motors and PSP Partners continue to support the objectives and programs of CRI.
Media Contact:
Ira Sager
Director of Communications
isager@cyberreadinessinstitute.org
516 286 2567
