The University of Michigan-Flint will serve as a hub of the Michigan Cyber Range Network to provide hands-on cybersecurity education and training, Gov. Rick Snyder announced during the 2018 North American Cyber Summit in Detroit on Oct. 29, 2018.
The hub at UM-Flint is expected to open within the next six months and operate in partnership with Merit Network and the Michigan Defense Center, an extension of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
The Michigan Cyber Range is a state-run program that develops security software and cyber defense and offers cyber exercises, product testing, digital forensics, and more than 40 professional certifications.
There are an estimated 7,000 unfilled cybersecurity jobs available in Michigan, and 300,000 nationwide, according to a press release from the governor’s office.
“The University of Michigan-Flint recently added several emerging areas of study and training to our campus and serving as a hub for the Michigan Cyber Network adds to that momentum,” Chancellor Susan E. Borrego said. “We are excited to be a part of this statewide initiative and look forward to cultivating a talented cybersecurity workforce through leading-edge education and training.”
Snyder also announced a new cyber hub in Marquette at Northern Michigan University.
“Michigan is focused on creating innovative solutions to prevent and respond to cyber threats, including building a holistic ‘cyber ecosystem’ in which both the public and private sectors work collaboratively,” said Sarah Tennant, strategic advisory in cyber initiatives at the MEDC. “These new hubs will continue the development of a robust cybersecurity community focused on connecting the interests of the cyber, automotive, defense and aerospace industries.”
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