FIU, OAS launch regional conference on cybersecurity education and training

FIU and the Organization of American States (OAS) will partner for the inaugural Regional Initiative for Cybersecurity Education and Training Conference (RICET) on Tuesday, Sep. 14, from noon to 4 p.m.

The conference will provide an opportunity for community members and thought leaders from education, government, industry and nonprofits to explore ways of developing a curriculum for the current and future cybersecurity workforce. It serves as a collaborative effort to build and strengthen a foundation in cybersecurity education, training and workforce for the Americas and the Caribbean.

RICET will feature welcome remarks by Brian Fonseca, director of the Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy, FIU; Rodney Petersen, director of the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education; and Ambassador Nestor Mendez, assistant secretary-general of the OAS.

“Cyber-attacks in Latin America and the Caribbean are rapidly outpacing the capacities needed to combat cyber threats,” says Fonseca. “FIU and its partners launched RICET in an effort to help bring the region together to build innovative and collaborative workforces equipped to defend individuals, organizations, companies and governments in cyberspace.”

The conference will consist of three panels focused on K-12 curriculum development and the implementation of the NICE (National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education) framework; diversification of the cybersecurity workforce; and reskilling and upskilling.

“The impact to our security and economic prosperity from cybersecurity incidents recognizes no borders or boundaries,” says Rodney Petersen, director of the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education. 

“Accordingly, our interdependence among the Americas combined with our global responsibility to create a safe and secure cyberspace necessitate coordination and cooperation to establish policies and standards that support the education and training of the cybersecurity workforce that is needed in both the public and private sectors.”

“Education is a key component to building and safeguarding the cybersecurity of our hemisphere and creating more rights for more people,” adds Ambassador Mendez. “Through this conference, we are enabling a unique platform for OAS’ member states, key policymakers and thought leaders to share best practices around the new realities of education to adapt to new challenges, as well as new cybersecurity opportunities.”

RICET will be conducted in English, Spanish and Portuguese. The event is hosted in cooperation with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education.

For more information about the agenda, featured speakers and to register, please visit the Gordon Institute's website.