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Cybersecurity faculty win Pentagon-sponsored competition to build workforce preparedness

giffeyt — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 20:45:00 +0000

Cybersecurity faculty win Pentagon-sponsored competition to build workforce preparedness giffeyt June 9, 2026

Department of War selects platform to inspire national cyber defense education models

A cybersecurity training platform developed by University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic faculty has won a high-stakes, Pentagon-sponsored competition and will now serve as a blueprint for scalable cybersecurity learning nationwide.

The Department of War’s Aligned Skills Curriculum and Experiential Network Design (ASCEND) Challenge received innovative entries from a pool of more than 60 applicants, all of them designated by the National Security Agency as Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE).

From among these entries, five finalists – including ��Ͽ� Polytechnic – were invited to make presentations in a “Shark Tank”-style event at the CAE Cybersecurity Community Symposium in Pittsburgh last month.

“Our goal was to show how AI and cloud technologies can help learners build skills faster, respond to cyberattacks more effectively, and prepare for the reality that AI-powered attacks now operate at machine speed,” said ��Ͽ� Polytechnic Professor Holly Yuan, who made the pitch alongside Instructor Brandon Cross.

The victory underscores ��Ͽ� Polytechnic’s role as a nationwide leader in applied cybersecurity education: The cybersecurity program was recently ranked at No. 14 in the United States by Programs.com, and ��Ͽ� Polytechnic student teams continue to excel in state, regional and national cyber defense competitions.

Professor Holly Yuan receives a ceremonial prize check after the competition from Scott Nelson, acting principal director of the Department of War Cyber Academic Engagement Office. / Submitted photo

Model teaches cyber defense skills

The ASCEND Challenge wasn’t just looking for ideas, but for scalable solutions that could train the next generation of the cybersecurity workforce, explained Yuan, director of the university’s B.S. cybersecurity program as well as the B.S. computer networking and infrastructure engineering program. The ��Ͽ� Polytechnic presentation, “ASCEND-AI: Cyber-AI Launchpad,” is an AI-powered digital twin cyber range training environment that combines hands-on learning with machine-speed attack simulations. As a “digital twin,” the environment emulates a real-world computer network, creating authentic simulations.

“The platform is designed to help learners build cybersecurity skills through realistic AI-enabled attack and defense scenarios,” Yuan added. “It includes AI-powered red teaming, allowing learners to practice defending against realistic, machine-speed attacks in a safe cyber range environment.”

��Ͽ� Polytechnic presented alongside teams from four other universities – San Jose State, North Carolina A&T, University of Maine at Augusta and Anderson University – before a panel of cybersecurity experts from the Department of War and other federal offices.

Yuan said she thinks the judges favored the ��Ͽ� Polytechnic presentation because it was a working platform, not just a concept, which offered AI-powered scaffolding for learners as well as real-time operational metrics – allowing learners to be judged not only on whether they completed an activity but how quickly they acted under pressure.

“The combination of academic rigor, AI-enabled training, workforce alignment, hands-on learning and immediate workforce impact resonated with the panel,” said Yuan, who is also founding director of the ��Ͽ� Polytechnic’s Cybersecurity Research & Outreach Center (CyROC).

In addition to winning a $1,000 cash prize, ��Ͽ� Polytechnic will receive strategic grant mentorship through Tony Coulson, executive director of the Centers of Academic Excellence Community, which includes nearly 500 educational institutions nationwide. The top three winning designs are also expected to inform a future Department of War solicitation aimed at building scalable cyber learning frameworks across the nation.

“This gives us an opportunity to help shape future cybersecurity education models beyond ��Ͽ�,” said Yuan, who was also honored at the symposium with an Outstanding Mentor Award from the CAE Community.

��Ͽ� Polytechnic cybersecurity students pose at the Wisconsin Governor’s Cybersecurity Summit. / Submitted photo

Student competitors rack up wins

The ASCEND Challenge victory wasn’t an isolated success for ��Ͽ� Polytechnic’s cybersecurity program.

Recently, ��Ͽ� Polytechnic students placed first and second in the “Hack the Box” competition at the Wisconsin Governor’s Cybersecurity Summit in Appleton. Participating students included Hannah Meyers of Altoona; Daisy Hardwick of Roscoe, Illinois; Chloe Kaneski of Minneapolis; Kaonou Lor of Durand; and AuGust Ringelstetter of Cameron. Yuan also participated in the summit’s closing general session panel, titled “Where Wisconsin Cyber Goes Next.”

Earlier in the semester, the ��Ͽ� Polytechnic Collegiate Cyber Defense Team won the Wisconsin state cyber defense championship for the sixth consecutive year. In February, the team took part in the Midwest regional competition with the No. 1 schools from 11 other states. Among this elite group, ��Ͽ� Polytechnic finished in a three-way tie for fourth place and was recognized by the Midwest Regional Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition director as a “top-tier cybersecurity team.”

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Cybersecurity faculty win Pentagon-sponsored competition to build workforce preparedness

Department of War selects platform to inspire national cyber defense education models

��Ͽ� cybersecurity program ranks No. 14 in nation as students excel in cyber defense competitions

Program has earned national credentials, international reach during its first four years

Inspiring Graduate: Owen Pryga, B.S. Cybersecurity

Hired before graduation as Heartland Business Systems consulting engineer

Department of War selects platform to inspire national cyber defense education models Professor Holly Yuan with director of CAEO

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Hero Caption: ��Ͽ� Polytechnic Professor Holly Yuan and Instructor Brandon Cross make their pitch during the Department of War’s Aligned Skills Curriculum and Experiential Network Design (ASCEND) Challenge in Pittsburgh in May. / Submitted photo

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��Ͽ� cybersecurity program ranks No. 14 in nation as students excel in cyber defense competitions

giffeyt — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

��Ͽ� cybersecurity program ranks No. 14 in nation as students excel in cyber defense competitions giffeyt March 2, 2026

Program has earned national credentials, international reach during its first four years

Tom Giffey

Just four years after it was created, the ��Ͽ� Bachelor of Science cybersecurity program ranks as one of the best in the nation, recently landing at No. 14 among the Top 25 programs in the United States, according to Programs.com.

The cybersecurity program also was placed No. 21 among the Most Affordable Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Programs in separate rankings compiled by Cybersecurity Guide.

The accolades arrived just as cybersecurity students are making another strong showing in the annual Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, earning the top spot in Wisconsin for the sixth time in seven years and placing second among teams from five states in a regional qualifier. Next, the ��Ͽ� team will compete at the Midwest Regional CCDC on March 20-21 at Purdue University Northwest in Hammond, Indiana.

��Ͽ� students also delivered an outstanding performance last fall in the National Cyber League (NCL) competition, which includes more than 9,000 students nationwide. The five-member ��Ͽ� team placed 43rd among nearly 800 institutions in the competition.

And in December, ��Ͽ� hosted its second annual Capture the Flag event, a competitive simulation in which participants solve security problems to gain points. The competition drew more than 100 participants, including students from other Universities of Wisconsin campuses, high school teachers and their students, and even students from Malaysia.

Professor Holly Yuan, program director of B.S. cybersecurity and B.S. computer networking and infrastructure engineering, points to driven, talented students as the reason for this notable string of achievements.

“I’m very proud of the students, our Stout students, because of their passion,” Yuan said. “My job is giving them the resources they need. They are self-driven.”

Last year, ��Ͽ�’s cybersecurity program placed No. 22 on the Best Value Cybersecurity Degree rankings by Programs.com. The most recent ranking — 14th among all U.S. cybersecurity programs — considers affordability as well as academic rigor, applied learning and the relevance of the curriculum.

That curriculum, Yuan explained, combines computer networking, computer science and applied math with cybersecurity-focused courses that explore security networking, security software and artificial intelligence in cybersecurity, all of which gives students industry-ready skills.

What really strengthens the program, she added, are its small class sizes, applied learning environment and strong industry partnerships that allow students to work on real-world projects.

“I think that combination makes the Stout program unique and strong,” Yuan said.

CCDC team members are Kayne Whitney, Fletcher Meyer, Brett Bender, Will Worthington, Andrew Rhode, Blake Dirksen, Ethan Coulthard, Daisy Hardwick, Chloe Kaneski and Kaonou Lor. / Submitted photo

Competitors juggle tasks to thwart hackers

Students say the cybersecurity program excels because it offers applied learning that combines computer science, networking and security.

“Students aren’t just learning concepts; they are applying them in labs fueled by passionate instructors. The work that Holly and other professors have put into the program shows to the students,” said junior Fletcher Meyer, a cybersecurity major from Appleton, Wisconsin, and president of the Cyber@Stout student organization.

Meyer said he was drawn to ��Ͽ�’s cybersecurity program because of its designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, the availability of Department of Defense scholarships, and its success in the Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition. This is Meyer’s third year taking part in CCDC, and he’s been focusing on learning more about firewall systems and teaching newcomers about Linux security.

In CCDC, team members are placed in a scenario where they must defend a compromised corporate environment that includes mail servers, databases, websites, and more. “A typical CCDC competition starts with the flag drop, where all teams can suddenly enter the environment and secure these services,” Meyer explained. “What makes this flag drop so special is the fact competitors already have the knowledge their system has been hacked and must be fixed soon — otherwise the red team hackers will further compromise our systems.”

At the same time, the team must respond to simulated users facing technical difficulties while also responding to “injects,” or business memos requesting certain tasks.

“The most challenging part of the competitions for me is the mental juggling act, remaining somewhat collected while balancing troubleshooting, injects, and other requests, all while the environment is trying to burn itself up,” said senior Brett Bender, a computer networking and information technology major from Rio, Wisconsin. “There’s a unique adrenaline rush in solving high-stakes puzzles under extreme pressure, especially when you’re doing it alongside one of the most talented teams in the Midwest.”

This is Bender’s first year taking part in CCDC, and he said the experience has been both amazing and rigorous. “We practice multiple times a week in our own environment, have volunteer red team hackers test our skills outside of competition, and have frequent presentations regarding various topics that are relevant during competition,” he said.

“Between practicing, competition, and other weekly meetings, it’s obvious that we all show up with a drive for excellence,” Bender continued. “Each of us finds joy in the challenges presented, and we are constantly looking to solutions for the situations we find ourselves in during competition.”

Professor Holly Yuan, right, and a ��Ͽ� student.

Lab experience leads to workplace skills

These competitions, as well as educational events hosted by organizations affiliated with the program, help expand the expertise of students and prepare them for the workforce. Senior Chloe Kaneski, a cybersecurity major from Plymouth, Minnesota, interned last summer as a technical support engineer at Verkada, a security technology company.

“This role was very centered around understanding networking concepts and how their devices were connected to a client’s network,” Kaneski said. “For my future career, I believe that the skills Stout’s program has given me and the knowledge I have learned from competitions will set me up for success.”

Kaneski, who will graduate in May, is already making a mark in her field. Last semester, she helped found a campus chapter of Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS), which has hundreds of student and professional chapters worldwide, and she now serves as the organization’s president. “We are hoping that we can make a change for both current and future women in cybersecurity at Stout,” Kaneski said.

Sophomore Tram Nguyen of Vietnam is also involved WiCyS, and she received a scholarship to attend the Women in Cybersecurity Conference in Washington, D.C., in March. While Nguyen is majoring in computer networking and infrastructure engineering, she said that program is strongly connected to cybersecurity.

“Security is no longer separate from networking. It is embedded in infrastructure design, authentication and system architecture. That integration really drew me in,” she said.

Nguyen said being able to work directly with CNIT lab equipment helped prepare her for a network support internship with the City of Eau Claire. “Being able to rack equipment, cable switches, configure real devices, and troubleshoot physical connections builds practical confidence,” she said. “Those skills translate directly into industry roles. The combination of theory and real-device experience makes the program strong and career-focused.”

Cybersecurity degree, internships underscore ��Ͽ�'s renewed designation as national cybersecurity center

National Security Agency recognition goes through 2028; students receive paid internships as Career Services grows industry partnerships

Program has notable credentials, reach

��Ͽ� is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity through the 2028 academic year. ��Ͽ� was the first four-year university in the state to receive this designation.

The cybersecurity program is also recognized as a Cisco Certified Networking Academy, an AWS Certified Academy, a Palo Alto Cybersecurity Academy, and a Microsoft Certified IT Academy. Real-world lab experiences and courses are taught by faculty members with advanced IT industry credentials.

In addition to serving as cybersecurity program director, Yuan is also founding director of ��Ͽ�’s Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center, which promotes cybersecurity research, education and workforce needs for the state of Wisconsin. While she is quick to laud her students and their success, she has earned honors of her own. Among other things, in 2024 she received the Visionary Academic Leadership Award at the 14th annual Cyber Security Summit in Minneapolis.

Cybersecurity program director receives national Visionary Academic Leadership Award

Yuan recognized for ‘pushing the envelope’ to train next generation at Cyber Security Summit

Last fall, she was selected by the U.S. State Department for the Fulbright Specialist Program, which sends professionals and academic experts abroad for two- to six-week project-based exchanges. In May, Yuan will travel to Malaysia for a specialist appointment in the Cybersecurity & Technological Convergence Department of the University of Kuala Lumpur. Her work will focus on cloud security and AI-driven cybersecurity, compliance frameworks and workforce skill gaps in Malaysia’s digital economy, as well as hands-on workshops in cloud security, AI-powered threat detection, digital forensics, and ethical hacking. Yuan said she will also provide faculty mentorship and curriculum development.

The connection between ��Ͽ� and the University of Kuala Lumpur was formed several years ago when Yuan first traveled to Malaysia thanks to a U.S. State Department grant obtained with the help of ��Ͽ�’s Office of International Education. “They made me feel so honored and welcomed, I couldn’t wait to go back!” Yuan said. “I’m super excited to strengthen the relationship between the two schools.”

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Cybersecurity faculty win Pentagon-sponsored competition to build workforce preparedness

Department of War selects platform to inspire national cyber defense education models

��Ͽ� cybersecurity program ranks No. 14 in nation as students excel in cyber defense competitions

Program has earned national credentials, international reach during its first four years

Inspiring Graduate: Owen Pryga, B.S. Cybersecurity

Hired before graduation as Heartland Business Systems consulting engineer

Program has earned national credentials, international reach during its first four years Cybersecurity students in ��Ͽ� lab

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Hero Caption: Cybersecurity students at work in a ��Ͽ� lab.

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Inspiring Graduate: Owen Pryga, B.S. Cybersecurity

goersab — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:20:00 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Owen Pryga, B.S. Cybersecuritygoersab December 23, 2025

Hired before graduation as Heartland Business Systems consulting engineer

Inspiring Graduate: Owen Pryga (’25)

Hometown: Grafton
Degree: B.S. Cybersecurity

Owen Pryga was encouraged to attend ��Ͽ� by friends who graduated from the university. “They pushed me to go to Stout for the polytechnic aspect, which they knew I loved. After finishing my first semester, I knew this was the place for me due to the hands-on nature of the classes,” he said.

Owen Pryga earned his cybersecurity degree from ��Ͽ� on Dec. 20, 2025.

He grew from the challenge of loneliness, being away from his family, to making fast friendships and even stepping into leadership roles, including serving as president of the Cyber@Stout student club and as a lead lab assistant.

Pryga earned his cybersecurity degree and crossed the commencement stage on Dec. 20, along with 527 ��Ͽ� graduates. He was hired before graduation as a consulting engineer with Heartland Business Systems.

“I hope to make the world a more secure place and to inspire others to learn more about the many aspects of cybersecurity. The problem-solving and troubleshooting required make me more passionate about the industry and spark joy in learning the unknown. I hope to help others find that same joy,” he said.

How has ��Ͽ� prepared you to work in your field?

In a lot of classes, you never work alone; you always have a partner working with you. It was daunting at first, though as you take more classes, you bond pretty heavily with the people in your major and it is such a fun experience. Friendships and partnerships throughout made it all the better when working in labs. If you feel defeated, there is someone else with you working on the problem.

Owen Pryga was hired before graduation by Heartland Business Systems.

With the amount of collaborative work, Stout sets you up nicely for internships, as you will be working with teams of people. I had many internships, from the first one out of high school working at the help desk at a manufacturing company, to HBS as an engineering associate, where I helped customers shape their IT infrastructure around their business needs.

I am grateful to the people and teams I met, as they shaped me to be the person I am today, taking bits and pieces from every opportunity that came my way.

What stands out about your ��Ͽ� experience?

There are so many areas of Stout that stand out. First of all, Program Director Holly Yuan is such a passionate and driven individual. She really cares about the program and each and every student in it. She truly takes great care in ensuring the program sets students up for success after college and keeps up with people in the industry to ensure that the program is up-to-date, and the employers are happy with Stout graduates. She supports the students in a variety of ways, encouraging employers to hire Stout students throughout the semester, giving students hands-on work experience before they graduate.

You get to know each professor in the program, and you understand how special Stout is when you get into the industry.

Through internships and networking, I learned there are many Stout alumni within every IT team. No matter where you go, there is at least one person on the team that went to Stout.

How did your campus involvement impact your experience?

I had the fortunate opportunity to be president of the Cyber@Stout student club. They do anything related to cybersecurity, from hosting industry professionals’ presentations to student-led presentations. They also have a focus on cybersecurity competitions.

PHOTO ESSAY: Protecting Your Digital Footprint

Discover what Computer Science, Cybersecurity and Computer Networking & Information Technology students do to prepare for competition success.

When I first became Cyber@Stout president, we only focused on one competition, the CCDC (Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition). That year, we took first in state and second overall in our qualifying group among 21 teams.

I am really proud of how the organization has grown in membership and expanded the number of competitions we work toward. I was able to grow my skills beyond the classroom; much of what I know was from preparing for those competitions. Apart from learning, those clubs allowed me to build lifelong friendships with many of the members.

What challenges did you face in earning your degree and how did you overcome them?

Many of my challenges were adjusting to living alone, being so far away from my family and friends back home. I did not know very many people when I first arrived at Stout, which, of course, made me scared I would not fit in.

I developed some pretty strong bonds with the people around me in my first club experiences and classes, so that issue of “fitting in” never came back.

Owen Pryga served as Cyber@Stout president.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

Some of the things I am most proud of were how I helped promote the program, in and out of the classroom. I met with people from large companies interested in helping Stout, a variety of individuals touring Stout, whether it was students or committees, and I even got the chance to meet a state congressman.

I have slowly been expanding the Cyber@Stout practice environment, making it grow with the organization and testing features I wanted to learn more about. We also had the chance to host a successful Capture the Flag cybersecurity event with a school in Kuala Lumpur.

I am just super grateful for the experiences I was able to be a part of. I met so many cool and interesting people, and I am hopeful to see where the program grows and where my career takes me from here. You don’t realize what you have done until you take some time and reflect back on what you’ve accomplished.

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Top 25 in the US: ��Ͽ�’s cybersecurity program listed among nation’s best

goersab — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 14:52:45 +0000

Top 25 in the US: ��Ͽ�’s cybersecurity program listed among nation’s bestgoersab August 25, 2025

B.S. in cybersecurity recognized for accessibility, affordability, career-focused mission

Abbey Goers

��Ͽ�’s Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity was named a Top 25 Best Value Cybersecurity Degree Bachelor’s Program in the U.S. by Programs.com.

The only institution in Wisconsin listed, No. 22-ranked ��Ͽ�’s cybersecurity program stands out for its exceptional educational quality and strong return on investment for students. The Programs.com recognition reflects ��Ͽ�’s commitment to offering a rigorous and respected cybersecurity education that remains accessible, affordable, practical and career-focused.

The program is recognized as a Cisco Certified Networking Academy, an AWS Certified Academy, and a Microsoft Certified IT Academy. Real-world lab experiences and courses are taught by faculty members with advanced IT industry credentials.

“Being recognized among the nation’s top cybersecurity programs is an honor that reflects the dedication of our students and faculty. This recognition reinforces our commitment to applied, hands-on education that makes a real difference for our students,” said Holly Yuan, program director of B.S. cybersecurity and B.S. computer networking and infrastructure engineering and founding director of ��Ͽ�’s Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center, which promotes cybersecurity research, education and workforce needs for the state of Wisconsin.

Cybersecurity Research & Outreach Center (CyROC)

��Ͽ� Polytechnic's Cybersecurity Research & Outreach Center is leading cybersecurity research, education, and workforce needs in Wisconsin.

“Generative AI is reshaping cybersecurity – both as a threat and as a defense. At ��Ͽ�, our Cyber@Stout Student Club is collaborating with faculty to build our first AI-powered cyber range and Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges focused on the security of large language models. These innovations ensure our students stay ahead of emerging trends and graduate prepared to meet the evolving needs of Wisconsin’s workforce and beyond,” Yuan added.

The Cyber@Stout team won first place at the 2025 Wisconsin Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition and placed second overall across Wisconsin, Illinois and Missouri in January. This year, the team is focusing on red-team strategies, including finding vulnerabilities in cloud environments and Generative AI large language models.

"We are now a member of the Palo Alto Networks Academy, thanks to the support of one of our advisory board members, who is a vice president at Palo Alto and helped us build this connection. This partnership further strengthens our students’ access to world-class cybersecurity training resources,” Yuan said.

��Ͽ� has the most technology and engineering graduates of any school north of Madison. From engineering to communication and counseling, manufacturing, marketing and design, construction, supply chain and more, ��Ͽ� is preparing graduates to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving workforce by embedding AI training in all of its degree programs. ��Ͽ�’s AI Fellows, centers, and services collaborate with community, business and industry partners to help Wisconsin leverage AI-driven solutions that put it ahead of the curve.

Programs.com works to connect students with programs that combine quality, reputation, and real-world value, whether they’re launching a new career or advancing in their field.

Cybersecurity degree, internships underscore ��Ͽ�'s renewed designation as national cybersecurity center

National Security Agency recognition goes through 2028; students receive paid internships as Career Services grows industry partnerships

National Center for Cyber Defense

All programs on the Top 25 list are designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency and/or the Department of Homeland Security.

��Ͽ� is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity for Cyber Defense through the 2028 academic year. In 2017, ��Ͽ� was the first four-year university in the state to receive this designation, a standard that only about 4% of schools in the United States earn.

The computer networking and infrastructure engineering program is the only such program in the state to receive the National Center of Academic Excellence Program of Study honor. Along with the cybersecurity and CNIE majors, ��Ͽ� has programs in computer science and applied mathematics and computer science.

“The CAE-CD designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty and students. It highlights our commitment to excellence in cyber defense education and positions ��Ͽ� as a leader in cybersecurity education. We’re all very proud of this achievement,” Yuan said.

Preparing students for cybersecurity careers

For leading the way in cybersecurity and for her outstanding educational contributions to the industry, Yuan received the Visionary Academic Leadership Award at the Cyber Security Summit last fall. She has integrated courses, including Application of Generative AI in Cybersecurity, to engage students in cutting-edge research involving cybersecurity, AI and cloud computing.

Cybersecurity program director receives national Visionary Academic Leadership Award

Yuan recognized for ‘pushing the envelope’ to train next generation at Cyber Security Summit

“AI can be leveraged to enhance cybersecurity controls and processes, helping our students stay ahead of emerging trends. In the field of cybersecurity, generative AI is quickly becoming a tool for both defensive and offensive measures. We’re focused on integrating these aspects into our curriculum to ensure our students are well-equipped to address challenges,” Yuan said.

With ��Ͽ�’s focus on applied learning, Yuan believes graduates are equipped not just with theoretical knowledge but also with practical skills through internships, capstone projects and industry certifications, ensuring they will be successful in their careers, she said.

“Holly regularly keeps up with people in the industry to ensure that the program is up-to-date, and the employers are happy with Stout graduates. She supports the students in a variety of ways, encouraging employers to hire Stout students throughout the semester, giving students hands-on work experience before they graduate,” said Owen Pryga, cybersecurity senior and president of the university’s Collegiate Cyber Defense League.

Addressing Wisconsin’s cybersecurity and AI needs

��Ͽ� created ACCESS – the AI-Powered Cloud Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification and Education Support System – with the aid of a $124,555 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Service Academy.

Granted ACCESS: $125K award will improve cybersecurity in U.S. Defense supply chain

In the U.S., 50% of small- and medium-size manufacturers lack basic cybersecurity controls. It’s a concern for companies that work with the Defense Department.

The DoD program helps businesses guard against cybersecurity threats and requires defense supply chain partners that handle sensitive unclassified information to meet stringent cybersecurity standards.

The certificate program strengthens career opportunities and industry workforce readiness for ��Ͽ� cybersecurity and CNIE majors, prospective students and professionals in the field.

In spring 2023, ��Ͽ� received a $298,771 cybersecurity internship grant to address Wisconsin’s workforce and infrastructure needs. The Fast Forward grant is from the state Department of Workforce Development and Universities of Wisconsin.

It provides paid industry internships to students enrolled in cybersecurity-related programs, where they apply skills learned in their labs and courses to work on real-world projects for employers looking to make their organization, services, products and data more secure.

More than 30 companies have partnered with ��Ͽ�’s Career Services through the DWD internship program to recruit students.

Student leadership in AI

AI Student Club members are helping to lead a community of learners and enthusiasts who are passionate about artificial intelligence. They are involved in applied learning activities both on and off campus and work to support ��Ͽ�’s goal of a 360-degree AI education approach.

AI, fully integrated: ��Ͽ�’s 360-degree approach to artificial intelligence embeds skills across all programs

‘Equipping students from every major with AI skills is not only important but necessary.’

AI Student Club members won first place at the 2024 DigiKey DKC3 Coding Competition last fall, defeating 20 teams from 11 Midwest universities. The club’s goals are to collaborate with university partners such as K-12 schools, two-year colleges and industry partners to develop hands-on AI applications in areas such as electronic vehicles, vision inspections, community services and more.

“The club plays an important role in embedding AI in every curriculum by exploring the diverse potential of AI across different disciplines because club members come from different majors,” said engineering and technology Assistant Professor Yuan Xing, club advisor.

Cybersecurity

All Cybersecurity News

Cybersecurity faculty win Pentagon-sponsored competition to build workforce preparedness

Department of War selects platform to inspire national cyber defense education models

��Ͽ� cybersecurity program ranks No. 14 in nation as students excel in cyber defense competitions

Program has earned national credentials, international reach during its first four years

Inspiring Graduate: Owen Pryga, B.S. Cybersecurity

Hired before graduation as Heartland Business Systems consulting engineer

B.S. in cybersecurity recognized for accessibility, affordability, career-focused mission holly_yuan_and_cnit_students.jpg

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Degree: Ph.D. Computer Information System

University: Nova Southeastern University

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AI, fully integrated: ��Ͽ�’s 360-degree approach to artificial intelligence embeds skills across all programs

goersab — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 18:00:00 +0000

AI, fully integrated: ��Ͽ�’s 360-degree approach to artificial intelligence embeds skills across all programsgoersab March 3, 2025

‘Equipping students from every major with AI skills is not only important but necessary.’

Abbey Goers

From engineering to communication and counseling, manufacturing, marketing and design, construction, supply chain and more, ��Ͽ� is preparing graduates to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving workforce by embedding AI training in all of its degree programs.

And its comprehensive approach to AI literacy is more than program curriculums – Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University is collaborating with community, business and industry partners through its innovation centers, consulting services, continuing education courses and regional consortiums to help Wisconsin leverage AI-driven solutions that put it ahead of the curve.

Faculty, staff and students alike are leading the charge, including computer and electrical engineering seniors and AI Student Club members Corey Hedlund and Michael Witt.

Hedlund, the club president, and Witt, club secretary, are leading a community of learners and enthusiasts who are passionate about artificial intelligence. The club also works to support ��Ͽ�’s goal of a 360-degree AI education approach.

Artificial Intelligence at ��Ͽ� Polytechnic

Explore how ��Ͽ� is leading AI innovation with hands-on research, industry partnerships, and real-world solutions.

“AI consists of a number of skill sets. Equipping students from every major with AI skills is not only important but necessary,” said engineering and technology Assistant Professor Yuan Xing, AI Club adviser.

“The impact of AI is very obvious across industries and daily life. Some disciplines are even completely revolutionized. So, teaching all students AI knowledge and skills can help them be well prepared for the job market. This aligns perfectly with ��Ͽ�’s career-focused and real-world experience education goals, helping all graduates stay competitive and adaptable in their future careers,” he added.

Hedlund and Witt joined Provost Glendalí Rodríguez recently in a presentation on “AI In Action: Advancing the Universities of Wisconsin,” led by the UW Education Committee at the Board of Regents meeting, Feb. 6-7.

Student leadership in AI

By teaching AI through hands-on, easy-to-follow activities – no AI background needed – the AI Student Club allows any student to learn, regardless of their major. It also holds AI seminars on trends and research, with student and industry speakers.

AI Student Club members won first place in the 2024 DigiKey competition / Ahmet Turkmen

Club members are heavily involved in applied learning activities both on and off campus. Hedlund, Witt, and club members Jack Lonn and Steven Kronmiller won first place at the 2024 DigiKey DKC3 Coding Competition last fall. Supervised by Xing and Professor Ahmet Turkmen, the team defeated 20 teams from 11 Midwest universities. In 2023, the team won second place in the competition.

The club helped prepare and demonstrate innovative AI to Gov. Tony Evers when he visited campus last spring. They attended an AI presentation conducted by ��Ͽ� and UW-River Falls faculty last fall. Read more about the faculty’s cross-disciplinary research below.

The club’s future goals include collaborating with university partners such as K-12 schools, two-year colleges and industry partners to develop hands-on AI applications in areas such as electronic vehicles, vision inspections, community services and more.

Faculty awarded for AI research

The university’s AI Fellows and AI Innovation Committee are led by faculty and staff, who ensure AI is embedded into learning, operations and innovation, and who direct AI integration, governance, ethics and literacy.

Faculty research impacts students' experiences, and experts across degree fields have been awarded for pushing AI research forward.

"Our interdisciplinary AI Fellows, supported by the 2023-25 Workforce Development funding, exemplify our dedication to integrating AI into every aspect of our academic offerings,” said Professor Keith Wojciechowski, program director of M.S. applied mathematics and data science. Fellows’ research includes:

Food and nutrition Professor Kerry Peterson is advancing AI-related academic programming in health care professions, with specific courses on healthy eating and the art and science of food.
Engineering Professor Anne Schmitz is integrating a commercially available AI chatbot into a hybrid Machine Components course.
Graphic design Professor Nagesh Shinde, collaborating with Library Director Roxanne Backowski, is developing an Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality Lab in the University Library.

Cybersecurity program director receives national Visionary Academic Leadership Award

Yuan recognized for ‘pushing the envelope’ to train next generation at Cyber Security Summit

For leading the way in cybersecurity and for her outstanding educational contributions to the industry, B.S. cybersecurity and B.S. computer networking and infrastructure engineering Program Director Holly Yuan received the Visionary Academic Leadership Award at the 14th annual Cyber Security Summit last fall. She has integrated courses, including Application of Generative AI in Cybersecurity, to engage students in cutting-edge research involving cybersecurity, AI and cloud computing.

Future of farming in Wisconsin: Professors design customized, energy-efficient, low-cost technology

Social science, engineering project for precision agriculture funded by Universities of Wisconsin

Marriage and family therapy Assistant Professor Heather Hessel received the Carl Whitaker Award from the Wisconsin Association for Marriage and Family Therapy in December for advancing AI integration with therapy.

Professors in a cross-disciplinary engineering/social science project, A HumanCentered Collaborative Approach to Designing an Energy-Efficient Wireless Sensor Network, are developing customized, energy-efficient, low-cost technology for precision agriculture to meet the needs of Wisconsin farmers.

The team is led by Xing and applied social science Program Director Tina Lee and includes ��Ͽ� engineering professors Cheng Liu and Abhishek Verma, and UW-River Falls Professor Bob Zhiwei Zeng.

Their project includes several aspects: a ground wireless sensor network, machinery for automation, livestock monitoring and drone data collection to help farmers make informed decisions based on real-time and historical data. They demonstrated the prototypes and machinery at Mann Valley Farm in River Falls. The project is funded by a two-year, $175,000 Universities of Wisconsin Innovation Grant.

Xing is also studying AI related to the packaging of fruit. With his system, an automated guided vehicle in a warehouse would bring fruit to a vision sensor, an AI algorithm would determine freshness, and the vehicle would then separate the good fruit for packaging.

Schmitz is conducting sustainable manufacturing research on mesostructures, or 3D-printed internal lattices that absorb energy and reduce material use. Her research uses AI to fine-tune mesostructure design for maximum energy absorption and lighter, more efficient products.

Design for Industry students create kindergartners’ ideal toys through AI rapid prototyping

Collaboration with St. Paul’s School introduces children to engineering; completed toys gifted to school

In engineering technology Professor Kevin Dietsche’s Design for Industry course, his students joined kindergartners from St. Paul’s School of Menomonie for a toy design project using AI rapid prototyping. Their toy ideas ranged from vehicles to a magic spell-casting kit, animals, dolls, action figures and more.

Faculty, centers supporting statewide industry

Professor David Ding, director of the Robert F. Cervenka School of Engineering, serves on the Governor’s Task Force on Workforce and Artificial Intelligence. Ding brings an important voice to the task force, representing higher education in western Wisconsin, giving a different perspective than members from the Milwaukee and Madison areas.

“As a polytechnic university, we operate differently. It’s important for the Department of Workforce Development to hear our side, know our strategic planning and see how we serve our partners, students and community,” Ding said.

“Stout offers a very unique way to transfer AI knowledge, skillsets and technologies. We help organizations hire and train employees to create highly skilled teams. This meets the task force’s goal perfectly,” he added. “We also seek external grants to serve students – especially in rural areas – to give them access to AI technology, equipment and courses. Stout serves to fill this cup, supporting a pathway to develop the state’s workforce.”

Next gen manufacturing: New CAM-AI will leverage resources to support industry in Wisconsin

Small and midsize manufacturers in Wisconsin and Minnesota have a new resource — and ally — in their quest for growth and success.

��Ͽ�’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence was formed in fall 2024. CAM-AI, partnering with the university’s Manufacturing Outreach Center, delivers comprehensive, proven solutions through consulting, training and workforce development for small and midsize manufacturers in Wisconsin and Minnesota

“��Ͽ�'s ability to supply expertise to address practical problems is what distinguishes us as a polytechnic university, and CAM-AI will be the entity through which this expertise can be made available to industry,” said Seth Hudson, executive director of the Office of Corporate Relations and Economic Engagement.

The Central Wisconsin AI Center is a collaboration between ��Ͽ�, UW-Stevens Point, Northcentral Technical College, the Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce and the Midpoint Consulting Group. CWAIC is an initiative focused on the adoption of AI through workforce training and industry integration across central and northcentral Wisconsin.

It serves as a hub for AI education, business development and workforce transformation, and is poised as a catalyst for regional economic development through training programs, K-12 educational pathways and industry-specific AI solutions.

Granted ACCESS: $125K award will improve cybersecurity in U.S. Defense supply chain

In the U.S., 50% of small- and medium-size manufacturers lack basic cybersecurity controls. It’s a concern for companies that work with the Defense Department.

The U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Service Academy awarded ��Ͽ� a 12-month, $124,555 federal grant to create ACCESS — the AI-Powered Cloud CMMC and Education Support System – to help businesses guard against cybersecurity threats.

The online bachelor's in automation leadership gives students skills in smart manufacturing. The only degree of its kind, it is a gateway to leadership in Industry 4.0 and is designed for technical and community college students who have an associate degree and incorporates training in SACA — the Smart Automation Certification Alliance. An AI course for educators offers a foundational course on generative AI prompt writing.

Learn how to engage with ��Ͽ�.

Advancing the community through AI literacy

��Ͽ�’s AI Integration Technologist Emily Laird collaborates to support campuswide and community efforts in AI integration, engaging industry leaders, educators and policymakers in discussions on the changing role of AI in business, education and society.

“AI literacy is no longer optional; it’s essential to everyone,” Laird said. “AI is real-time reshaping every industry, from education and health care to business and the arts.”

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Discover what engineering students are programming in automation

Laird leads AI Weekly meetups on Wednesdays to explore the world of artificial intelligence and generative artificial intelligence and unpack the latest breakthroughs and debate dilemmas through open discussion that touches on ethics, safety and the fundamental question of what it means to be human in an AI-driven world.

The meetups are open to the community and alumni. From novice to expert, everyone is welcome. Recent topics focused on AI Safety, including the European Union's AI Act, Meta's Frontier AI Framework, the International AI Safety Report and more.

“We encourage everyone to attend because AI isn’t just for tech experts; it’s for everyone. Whether you’re curious, concerned, or eager to explore its possibilities, these meetups are designed to help you navigate the opportunities and challenges AI presents,” Laird said.

“AI literacy is the new digital literacy, and staying informed is so important in this new AI ‘Wild West.’ That’s why we welcome anyone interested in learning, questioning and growing alongside a community of learners.”

Laird has presented at the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce Skill Booster Series and nationally on the impacts of generative AI and the advancements of AI in search and information summarization, known as generative engine optimization.

“This will greatly impact fields like web managing, marketing, user experience and content development. My research and presentation help folks prepare for a new reality and to start thinking about how we design content that gets picked up by AI,” she said.

“��Ͽ�'s comprehensive approach to AI integration is central to preparing all students for a technology-driven future. Through strategic collaborations across campus, with alumni and industry partners, we are setting a new standard for AI literacy and workforce readiness.”

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��Ͽ� gets $19 million federal grant to manage statewide manufacturing program

MOC gets federal designation as Wisconsin’s statewide leader in supporting small and medium-sized manufacturers

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��Ͽ� AI technologist, STEMM professor recommend thinking critically, protecting personal data

Wisconsin manufacturing leaders unite to accelerate AI adoption across the state

MKE Tech Hub, WMEP and ��Ͽ� form strategic partnership to support mid-market manufacturers

‘Equipping students from every major with AI skills is not only important but necessary.’ digikey_competition_first_place_2024.jpg

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Cybersecurity program director receives national Visionary Academic Leadership Award

goersab — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 17:18:04 +0000

Cybersecurity program director receives national Visionary Academic Leadership Awardgoersab November 5, 2024

Yuan recognized for ‘pushing the envelope’ to train next generation at Cyber Security Summit

Abbey Goers

For leading the way in cybersecurity and for her outstanding educational contributions to the industry, ��Ͽ� Professor Holly Yuan received the Visionary Academic Leadership Award at 14th annual Cyber Security Summit.

The summit, held recently in Minneapolis, brings together cybersecurity professionals, educators and students from across the nation to tackle emerging challenges and to protect people, processes and property.

Yuan is the program director of B.S. cybersecurity and B.S. computer networking and infrastructure engineering and founding director of ��Ͽ�’s Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center, which promotes cybersecurity research, education and workforce needs for the state of Wisconsin.

Yuan has secured funding from the Department of Defense, Department of Workforce Development, and other agencies to engage students in cutting-edge research involving cybersecurity, AI and cloud computing. This work has enabled students to earn scholarships, internships and secure roles in the field.

Holly Yuan receives her Visionary Academic Leadership Award / Cyber Security Summit, cybersecuritysummit.org

“I’m honored to be recognized with the Visionary Academic Leadership Award. Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful to me. It’s a recognition of the collective efforts of our students, faculty and partners. I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received along the way,” Yuan said.

Six students were awarded summit scholarships to attend the event at no cost:

Ethan Coulthard, cybersecurity, Neenah
Chloe Kaneski, cybersecurity, Minneapolis
Fletcher Meyer, computer science, cybersecurity, Appleton
Alexander Nachreiner, computer science, Mound, Minn.
Liam Nicholson, cybersecurity, Milwaukee
Owen Pryga, cybersecurity, Grafton

“The students received praise for their engagement and professionalism, further solidifying the program’s strong reputation. Everyone just loved them,” Yuan said. “A member of the Cyber Security Summit Think Tank Advisory Board remarked, ‘The future is bright,’ recognizing their energy and potential.”

Alumni David Tesar, a security service agent at a national cybersecurity company, and Cheyne Taylor, a graduate student representative for the Think Tank advisory board, joined to celebrate with the students. Taylor supported Yuan’s nomination.

Holly Yuan, third on right, with cybersecurity students and alumni at Cyber Security Summit / Cheyne Taylor

“When I was given the opportunity to nominate an individual for this honor, Dr. Holly Yuan came to mind immediately,” Taylor said. “Dr. Yuan has been an outstanding faculty member and a strong advocate of her students and ��Ͽ� to numerous IT firms nationwide. She is always striving to provide the best opportunities for her students by bringing in partnerships from both the private and public sectors. Outside of creating CyROC and establishing the B.S. cybersecurity degree, Dr. Yuan also takes time to mentor students throughout their undergraduate career.”

Students are prepared for cybersecurity careers

With ��Ͽ�’s focus on hands-on and experiential learning, Yuan believes graduates are equipped not just with theoretical knowledge but also with practical skills through internships, capstone projects and industry certifications.

“This hands-on approach ensures our students will be successful in their careers,” she said.

Pryga, president of the university’s Collegiate Cyber Defense League, and CCDL vice president Nicholson, think that one of the hardest parts about leading a cybersecurity program is to evolve alongside the fast-moving industry and to push the envelope to train the next generation of professionals.

“Holly has really been helping to advance the industry through her work in pushing ��Ͽ�’s program. This has and will continue to produce students who are up-to-date with the industry and are confident and capable of becoming effective professionals and leaders in the field,” Nicholson said.

Cybersecurity degree, internships underscore ��Ͽ�'s renewed designation as national cybersecurity center

National Security Agency recognition goes through 2028; students receive paid internships as Career Services grows industry partnerships

For example, in response to the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence, Yuan and faculty have integrated AI into the curriculum, including a new course called Application of Generative AI in Cybersecurity.

“This course explores how AI can be leveraged to enhance cybersecurity controls and processes, helping our students stay ahead of emerging trends. In the field of cybersecurity, generative AI is quickly becoming a tool for both defensive and offensive measures. We’re focused on integrating these aspects into our curriculum to ensure our students are well-equipped to address challenges,” Yuan said.

“Holly creates this unmatched enthusiasm for everyone involved. She works so hard for the program, and the students and alumni see the hard work she puts in and want to help her out in any way they can,” Pryga said. “Holly regularly keeps up with people in the industry to ensure that the program is up-to-date, and the employers are happy with Stout graduates. She supports the students in a variety of ways, encouraging employers to hire Stout students throughout the semester, giving students hands-on work experience before they graduate.”

Pryga and Nicholson will graduate in spring 2026. They plan to work in an incident response role or as a cybersecurity analyst; and security research, engineering or offensive security, respectively.

Addressing Wisconsin’s cybersecurity and AI needs

��Ͽ� Career Services Director Bryan Barts thinks the DWD internship program creates a total win-win scenario for students and employers.

“Students looking to use the skills they built in Stout programs on real world projects for actual employers demonstrate the polytechnic education in practice,” he said. “Employers looking to make their organization, services, products and especially data more secure are finding students bringing insights and impacts right away. This program brings both together in impressive ways.”

Ezra Wilhelmy, cybersecurity, Maple Grove, Minn., began an internship at Yahara Software, in Madison, through the DWD program in July. They have accomplished impressive work, said Yuan, including designing a security pipeline, conducting security scans and collaborating closely with the DevSecOps team. They presented to more than 40 engineers and leaders at Yahara, including the CEO, providing a great overview of their achievements during the internship. Wilhelmy is completing the DWD internship remotely this fall semester, with an expected end date in December.

“It’s inspiring to see the real-world impact our students are making through these opportunities,” Yuan said.

Granted ACCESS: $125K award will improve cybersecurity in U.S. Defense supply chain

In the U.S., 50% of small- and medium-size manufacturers lack basic cybersecurity controls. It’s a concern for companies that work with the Defense Department.

Thirty companies have partnered with Career Services through the DWD internship program to recruit students: 3RT Networks, Malisko Engineering Inc., Greenheck Fan, IBM, Yahara Software, Promega, Heartland Business Systems, Trellis Management, City of Menomonie, ND Paper, TechHorizon Consulting, Nelson-Jameson Inc., School District of Holmen, Wieser Concrete Products Inc., Mystic Lake Casino, School District of Cudahy, In Control Inc., BouMatic, Dove IT Services, Kayres Counseling LLC, L.E. Phillips Career Development Center, Chippewa Valley IT Consulting, Sanmina, Maxcess International, the State of Wisconsin Department of Administration - Division of Enterprise Technology, MacaroniKIDMadison, Black River Country Bank, Anderson Engineering of MN, Plastic Ingenuity Inc., and the Dirks Group.

A recent $124,555 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Service Academy will create ACCESS — the AI-Powered Cloud Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification and Education Support System. The DoD program, beginning in 2025, will help businesses guard against cybersecurity threats. It will require defense supply chain partners that handle sensitive unclassified information to meet stringent cybersecurity standards.

Yuan will lead development of a network prototype that simulates a manufacturing system, incorporating cloud service providers, headquarters, branch offices and teleworkers.

The certificate program will also strengthen career opportunities and industry workforce readiness for cybersecurity and CNIE majors, prospective students and professionals in the field.

Yuan is also working to expand CyROC’s community engagement opportunities through hands-on cybersecurity workshops.

��Ͽ� is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity for Cyber Defense from the National Security Agency through the 2028 academic year. ��Ͽ� was the first four-year university in the state to receive it in 2017, a standard that only about 4% of schools in the United States earn.

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��Ͽ� cybersecurity program ranks No. 14 in nation as students excel in cyber defense competitions

Program has earned national credentials, international reach during its first four years

Inspiring Graduate: Owen Pryga, B.S. Cybersecurity

Hired before graduation as Heartland Business Systems consulting engineer

Yuan recognized for ‘pushing the envelope’ to train next generation at Cyber Security Summit Holly Yuan's Cyber Security Summit leadership award

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B.S. Cybersecurity

Our B.S. Cybersecurity program offers the theoretical and practical training to pursue critical certifications in Cyber Ops, CCNA, AWS, and CEH.

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B.S. Computer Networking & Infrastructure Engineering

Our B.S. Computer Networking program offers applied curriculum in enterprise network infrastructure, network design and security, and server administration.

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Hero Caption: Holly Yuan, center, program director of B.S. cybersecurity and B.S. computer networking and infrastructure engineering, with her leadership award at the summit. Photo by Cyber Security Summit, cybersecuritysummit.org.

Holly Yuan

Full Name: Holly Yuan

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College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Mathematics, Statistics & Computer Science Department Cybersecurity Research & Outreach Center (CyROC)

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University: Nova Southeastern University

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Granted ACCESS: $125K award will improve cybersecurity in U.S. Defense supply chain

polingj — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 17:24:52 +0000

Granted ACCESS: $125K award will improve cybersecurity in U.S. Defense supply chainpolingj October 9, 2024

Funding will support readiness for small-, medium-size manufacturers along with students through AI-powered training

In the U.S., 50% of small- and medium-size manufacturers lack basic cybersecurity controls. It’s a major national concern for those companies that work with the U.S. Department of Defense.

A valuable new resource, thanks to a $124,555 federal grant awarded to ��Ͽ�, will help. The 12-month award for 2025 from the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Service Academy will create ACCESS — the AI-Powered Cloud CMMC and Education Support System.

CMMC — cybersecurity maturity model certification — is a Department of Defense program beginning in 2025 that will help businesses guard against cybersecurity threats. It will require defense supply chain partners that handle sensitive unclassified information to meet stringent cybersecurity standards.

��Ͽ� students work on a computer server in a lab. / ��Ͽ�

“This is a timely and critical project, as we are addressing the increasing demand for cybersecurity workforce development in the supply chain. The initiative will integrate AI and machine learning in a cloud environment to support CMMC compliance and training,” said Professor Holly Yuan, principal investigator and project lead.

The certificate program also will strengthen career opportunities and industry workforce readiness for ��Ͽ� cybersecurity; and computer networking and infrastructure engineering majors, prospective students and professionals in the field.

ACCESS to cybersecurity solutions

ACCESS will seek to streamline the complex process of meeting CMMC standards. Training and support through workshops and AI-powered tools will “help manufacturers navigate the often-overwhelming cybersecurity landscape,” Yuan said.

“This initiative will not only help defense suppliers understand CMMC compliance but also enhance cybersecurity training through partnerships with community colleges and industry leaders.”

Yuan will lead development of a network prototype that simulates a manufacturing system, incorporating cloud service providers, headquarters, branch offices and teleworkers.

B.S. Cybersecurity

Our B.S. Cybersecurity program offers the theoretical and practical training to pursue critical certifications in Cyber Ops, CCNA, AWS, and CEH.

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The prototype will provide scenarios for different CMMC levels that simulate threats. Participants will learn how AI, machine learning — an aspect of AI that involves pulling information from data and automatically learning from it — and cloud technologies enhance cybersecurity compliance.

To streamline CMMC requirements, Yuan plans to build an ACCESS AI bot powered by a large language model to automate compliance tasks, provide real-time guidance, and simplify complex regulatory processes for defense contractors.

The certificate training program will be integrated as part of the Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity curriculum at ��Ͽ�, which has rapidly grown since its launch in 2022 to more than 130 students. The program aims to expand its role in equipping students with cutting-edge, hands-on AI and cybersecurity compliance skills.

��Ͽ� students work on a computer server in a lab. / ��Ͽ�

“Through ACCESS, we are equipping manufacturers with the tools to understand and meet CMMC compliance, strengthen their security posture and protect sensitive data. Simultaneously, we are preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals to lead in this increasingly critical field,” Yuan said.

Students from the cybersecurity and computer networking programs will be engaged as researchers for ACCESS project, like with a previous Department of Defense grant-funded project, Smart Manufacturing with 5G and Machine Learning.

Yuan noted that a $299,000 grant in 2023 for a cybersecurity student internship program with state employers, through the Department of Workforce Development, has been extended for a second year. Ten companies are participating.

Grant application and management at ��Ͽ� is coordinated through the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs.

National Center for cyber defense

��Ͽ�’s 2017-22 designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity for Cyber Defense was recently renewed through the 2028 academic year by the National Security Agency.

��Ͽ� was the first four-year university in the state to receive the honor. Only about 4% of schools in the U.S. earn the designation.

The computer networking and infrastructure engineering program is the only such program in the state to receive the national Center of Academic Excellence Program of Study honor.

Along with the cybersecurity and CNIE majors, ��Ͽ� has programs in computer science; and applied mathematics and computer science.

The week of Oct. 14-19 has been declared Cybersecurity Career Week by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

“There is a high demand for a talented cybersecurity workforce,” NIST said, noting that the U.S. Department of Labor predicts information technology and cybersecurity “will be among the fastest growing and best-paying jobs over the next decade.”

###

In the U.S., 50% of small- and medium-size manufacturers lack basic cybersecurity controls. It’s a concern for companies that work with the Defense Department. Computer servers 1

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Fast Forward: University developing model cybersecurity internship program with $299,000 System, state grant

A cybersecurity internship grant addressing the needs of the Wisconsin’s critical infrastructure utilities has been awarded to ��Ͽ�.

Holly Yuan

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College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Mathematics, Statistics & Computer Science Department Cybersecurity Research & Outreach Center (CyROC)

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Degree: Ph.D. Computer Information System

University: Nova Southeastern University

Degree: M.S. Computer Science

University: Georgia State University

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PHOTO ESSAY: Protecting Your Digital Footprint

goersab — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 15:16:55 +0000

PHOTO ESSAY: Protecting Your Digital Footprintgoersab February 22, 2024

Stout Students Do More on Day One in Cybersecurity, Win State Competition

Abbey Goers

Like boot prints left in the dust on the moon, your digital footprint can never be erased. So, how do you protect data that’s meant to last forever?

With the moon rising on a cold February evening, two University of Wisconsin-Stout student organizations made up of computer science; computer networking and information technology; and cybersecurity students – future cybersecurity agents – meet to learn ways to help keep your digital footprint under lock and key.

The Collegiate Cyber Defense League (CCDC) team meets weekly to rigorously prepare for competitions and offers students a more competitive cybersecurity experience, while the Information Security Professionals student club gatherings host more leisurely cybersecurity activities.

CCDC President David Tesar, a computer science senior from Lety, Czech Republic, became interested in cybersecurity his junior year in high school after attending a Cisco-sponsored event.

“In our student clubs, we have opportunities to use professional tools that we may not use in our labs and classes. We work on our skills in our free time and outside of class,” he said. “I encourage other students to attend and to open their eyes to what you don’t learn in school.”

In Micheels Hall’s Cybersecurity Lab, the CCDC team gathers in small groups around three computer stations. Several six-foot-tall servers blink with red and green lights in large, locked black cases. New server switches are stacked in the corner waiting to be installed.

At the recent CCDC qualifying state round, the team won first place among teams from Wisconsin, Illinois and Missouri. They’re now gearing up to compete in the 2024 Midwest Collegiate Cyber Defense regional competition this March, in Chicago.

“Our ��Ͽ� team will have the honor of representing the state of Wisconsin, competing against all other top-ranked Midwest schools,” said CNIT and cybersecurity Program Director Holly Yuan. “The team’s success was fueled by their unwavering passion, commitment and discipline. Their hard work and dedication truly paid off, and I couldn't be prouder of what they've achieved.”

Around their stations, they open their laptops and share light-hearted jokes and fist bumps in greeting. Some are playing Oregon Trail, waiting for practice to start.

Tesar and CCDC Vice President Liam Nicholson manage practices and individual tasks, get their team up to speed and hold each teammate accountable.

“Everyone on the team has basic cyber knowledge, but we each have our own specialization,” Nicholson said. “In the Cybersecurity Lab, we can re-create the competition within our own practice environment. We can emulate steps on the computer and research to find out what might be vulnerable to hackers.”

“Our goal is to build the best team possible,” said Tesar, who opens practice with a quick review.

“What is a shell,” he asked his team.

“The thing on the back of a turtle,” someone suggested, as the playfulness continues.

“That is one correct answer,” Nicholson replied.

Unlike a turtle’s protective shell, a web shell enables a hacker remote access to a targeted server or system, giving them a backdoor for additional attacks.

The team returns to cyber-mode and discusses field-related terms before moving on to reviewing their playbook, a step-by-step document naming each team member’s strength and assignment for the upcoming competition.

“Everything you do online is stored somewhere – your social media posts, purchases, personal information,” said Nicholson, a cybersecurity sophomore. “If data is stored, it can be accessed. Cybersecurity measures are in place to prevent the wrong people from gaining access.”

Nicholson, of South Milwaukee, realized he was interested in cybersecurity when he joined his high school’s cyber-patriot team. He was one of the first students in ��Ͽ�’s major, which began in 2022.

As CCDC practice winds down, several students head to the Information Security Professionals meeting. It’s a long walk through the longest building on campus. From Micheels Hall, you pass by windows that look into Stout’s construction and plastics engineering labs in Jarvis Hall Technology Wing, before entering the Science Wing.

It’s a tool demonstration night, and ISP club members tinker with cybersecurity and hacking tools and devices to learn how to protect an individual’s and organization’s data.

There are many types of hackers, all with different motivations, explained Nicholson and Jacob Mengel, ISP president. Black hats, as they’re known in the industry, break into networks with malicious, criminal intent and for financial gain. Gray hats hack for their own sake, sometimes to play a prank on users.

A white hat, or ethical hacker, is hired by an organization to test and evaluate vulnerability and to suggest potential security improvements at both the cyber and physical levels. These are skills the club is practicing tonight.

At the first station, you hear metal scraping on metal. Two students are picking Brinks padlocks, the same you would use to lock up your bike, fence or tool shed.

“We practice physical lock-picking because once you can fake your way into a physical building, you’re one step closer to hacking the files you’re looking to exploit. Physical lock-picking stresses finding those vulnerabilities,” explains Mengel, a CNIT junior from Stevens Point.

Mengel always knew he wanted to work with computers and be able to work with his hands. “In high school, I learned that Stout has one of the few CNIT majors in the state. I instantly knew I wanted to go here,” he said.

At a second station, a student straightens a paperclip. He’s handcuffed himself to his classmate and set the key off to the side. He inserts the paperclip into the keyway. Can he pick the lock, or will they be cuffed together for the rest of the meeting?

“This is layer one, the physical protection of a building,” he said. “Physical security is important. Keeping doors locked is such a simple thing to do, but sometimes we forget. Or we may think we’re being polite by letting someone into a building who says they forgot their key. Maybe it’s a trick, and they’re looking for an easy way into a building. It’s the same as leaving your computer open. Your valuables, either physical or digital, are left vulnerable.”

He twists the paperclip and – clink – the ratchets on his cuff release and his wrist is free. Now to uncuff his classmate.

“We’re understanding how to better protect people,” said Nicholson, ISP vice president. “You’re not going to let someone walk into your house. It’s the same with cybersecurity – protecting your digital home. Think about a firewall as the structure of your house. If you don’t know someone’s password, it’s the same as not having the key to the front door. We’re looking to make sure passwords, networks or software can’t be used by the wrong people.”

At a third station, cybersecurity major Owen Pryga connects a small black device with several antennas to his laptop. It’s a Wi-Fi Pineapple, a portable device developed as a penetration testing tool to help cybersecurity specialists identify and test vulnerabilities.

Unfortunately, it can also be used to trick unsuspecting users into connecting to a fake public Wi-Fi network.

“A hacker will trick you into connecting to the fake network, similar to phishing,” Mengel said. “They might be out to steal your data or just to play a prank, like RickRoll. It’s a joke older than the dinosaurs. Even my dad knows RickRoll.”

With the RickRoll prank, which crept onto the Internet around 2007, a user connects to what they think is real public Wi-Fi. Instead, they’re directed to a video of Rick Astley’s song “Never Gonna’ Give You Up,” Pryga explained.

Dominic Kavalary, ISP treasurer, a CNIT senior from New Berlin, has interned with Heartland Business Systems, in Eau Claire. He snacks on a coconut cookie as he reflects on how reading documentation and finding out how software works can help you learn to protect it.

“By finding the loopholes in a software, you can exploit features in ways unintended,” Kavalary said. “If you can learn how to break something, you can learn how to keep it from breaking. If you know there’s an issue, you can provide advanced measures to protect it.”

Mengel and Nicholson are working on just such side projects – Mengel is cracking the encryption code of an RFID scanner or key card scanner to learn how to exploit it to protect it. Nicholson is learning Kali Linux, an advanced penetration testing, research and security tool.

“Cybersecurity is a battle that keeps on going. The greatest weapon in this field is knowledge – knowledge of how to defend, learn and adapt,” Mengel said. “Encryption is ancient. We’ve been doing this forever. Think of the Caesar Cipher in Roman times or Navaho Code Talkers and Enigma in World War II. Modern encryption is crazily complex, with mathematical equations on top of equations.”

��Ͽ� student cyber teams have now won four Wisconsin CCDC titles and took fourth place among 13 national teams, and No. 1 among Wisconsin teams, at the National Centers of Academic Excellence Cyber Game last spring.

��Ͽ�’s 2017-22 designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity for Cyber Defense was recently renewed through the 2028 academic year by the National Security Agency.

��Ͽ� was the first four-year university in the state to receive it in 2017. Only about 4% of schools in the United States earn the designation.

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Cybersecurity degree, internships underscore ��Ͽ�'s renewed designation as national cybersecurity center

goersab — Tue, 26 Dec 2023 15:21:30 +0000

Cybersecurity degree, internships underscore ��Ͽ�'s renewed designation as national cybersecurity centergoersab December 26, 2023

National Security Agency recognition goes through 2028; students receive paid internships as Career Services grows industry partnerships

Abbey Goers

With its recently renewed designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity for Cyber Defense, ��Ͽ� has reached a standard that only about 4% of schools in the United States earn.

“The CAE-CD designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty and students. It highlights our commitment to excellence in cyber defense education and positions ��Ͽ� as a leader in cybersecurity education. We're all very proud of this achievement,” said B.S. cybersecurity and B.S. computer networking and infrastructure engineering Program Director Holly Yuan.

The designation, through the 2028 academic year, is an extension of the university’s 2017-2022 designation, from the National Security Agency. ��Ͽ� was the first four-year university in the state to receive it in 2017.

“The designation broadens opportunities for research, grants and collaboration. It ensures that our education meets the strictest national standards in cybersecurity, and it also qualifies our students for the Department of Defense Cybersecurity Scholarship,” Yuan said.

The CAE-CD designation is significant for ��Ͽ�’s computer networking and information technology program, the only undergraduate program in Wisconsin to hold a CAE Program of Study designation.

Since its initial designation in 2017, ��Ͽ� has added a cybersecurity degree program, with the first cohort of on-campus and online students joining in fall 2022.

The cybersecurity program offers CYBR prefix courses that distinguish it as a unique discipline, Yuan said. “These courses, such as Cyber Forensics and Investigation; and Practical Application of Generative AI in IT and Cybersecurity, are designed to equip students with cutting-edge skills and knowledge,” she added.

��Ͽ�’s Cybersecurity Research & Outreach Center was established with the 2017 designation.

��Ͽ�’s CCDC team at regional competition in Chicago in spring 2023 / Holly Yuan

Students enrolled in cybersecurity-related programs at ��Ͽ� are eligible to apply for the Department of Defense Cybersecurity Scholarship. The program promotes the recruitment of students for education in cybersecurity, preparing them for roles in intelligence and national security.

The scholarship covers full cost of tuition, books and fees, and includes an annual stipend of $29,000, plus a one-time computer allowance of $1,650. Additionally, it offers a paid summer internship with the NSA and DoD, along with guaranteed employment with the DoD and NSA after graduation. Several ��Ͽ� students have received the scholarship.

Cybersecurity’s paid internship program prepares students for workforce

��Ͽ� received a $298,771 cybersecurity internship grant in April 2023 to address Wisconsin’s workforce and infrastructure needs. The Fast Forward grant is from the state Department of Workforce Development and Universities of Wisconsin.

It provides paid industry internships to students enrolled in ��Ͽ�’s cybersecurity-related programs, including CNIE; cybersecurity; computer science; applied mathematics and computer science; and information and communication technologies, which is offered on-campus and online.

Student interns will receive direct mentoring from experienced cybersecurity and IT industry professionals, gain valuable skills, network with industry professionals and receive a competitive internship stipend.

Students enrolled in ��Ͽ�’s cybersecurity and IT programs are encouraged to apply.

Fast Forward: University developing model cybersecurity internship program with $299,000 System, state grant

A cybersecurity internship grant addressing the needs of the Wisconsin’s critical infrastructure utilities has been awarded to ��Ͽ�.

“The internship program officially began accepting applications about two weeks ago,” Yuan said. “Since then, we have seen a very positive response. Approximately 50 students have initiated the enrollment process, with 20 of these students already submitting their applications. These students are currently under the interview process with our partner employers for their hiring review.”

The internship program, in collaboration with Career Services, has established partnerships with a notable range of national and local cybersecurity and IT companies, including:

Dirks Group
Greenheck Fan
HBS
Heartland Business Systems
IBM
Jack Links
Malisko Engineering Inc.
Plastic Ingenuity Inc.
Promega
��Ͽ�
Yahara Software, LLC
3RT Networks

“Career Services will continue sending out student applications to our partner employers on a weekly rolling basis, until all positions within the program are filled. We anticipate there will be more employers joining the program in the spring, offering more opportunities for our students,” Yuan said.

Students who are unemployed, underemployed or from underrepresented groups in the field, including women and veterans, are encouraged to apply.

��Ͽ�’s CCDC team at the National CAE Cyber Game in spring 2023 / Holly Yuan

Student cyber teams have demonstrated outstanding performance in cybersecurity competitions, including three Wisconsin Collegiate Cyber Defense competition titles in the past four years. ��Ͽ� also took fourth place among 13 national teams, and No. 1 among Wisconsin teams, at the National Centers of Academic Excellence Cyber Game last spring.

��Ͽ� tied for second place among 10 national teams at the CCD invitational game on Dec. 2, scoring highest in the incident response section. Students are meeting weekly in the Cybersecurity Lab, equipped with hands-on cybersecurity tools, to prepare for the upcoming state CCD competition in February 2024.

The National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity program is managed by NSA's National Cryptologic School. Federal partners include the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the National Initiative on Cybersecurity Education, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Defense Office of the Chief Information Officer and U.S. Cyber Command.

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Hero Caption: Cybersecurity and CNIE Program Director Holly Yuan with students in the computer networking lab on campus.

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Fast Forward: University developing model cybersecurity internship program with $299,000 System, state grant

polingj — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:17:19 +0000

Fast Forward: University developing model cybersecurity internship program with $299,000 System, state grantpolingj March 30, 2023

University’s leadership in the field will help address a critical workforce need in Wisconsin

A cybersecurity internship grant addressing the needs of the Wisconsin’s critical infrastructure utilities has been awarded to ��Ͽ�, a higher education leader in the field.

The $298,771 Fast Forward grant from the state Department of Workforce Development and University of Wisconsin System will provide paid industry internships to adult learners, including state university and technical college students who are seeking to enter the information technology and cybersecurity field or enhance their skillset.

Students who are unemployed, underemployed or from underrepresented groups in the field, including women and veterans, are encouraged to apply. ��Ͽ� has an undergraduate program in cybersecurity.

Four grants totaling $1.1 million were awarded to three UW System schools, Gov. Tony Evers and the Department of Workforce Development announced Thursday, April 13.

A student checks servers while working in ��Ͽ�’s cybersecurity labs. / ��Ͽ�

According to Cyber Seek, more than 1.1 million people are employed in the industry in the U.S., but there are more than 755,000 job openings, including more than 7,800 in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin shortage is despite a high average salary for an entry-level cybersecurity analyst in the state: $75,000.

The goals of the program are to increase students’ work-based opportunities, enhance awareness career possibilities and educational pathways in Wisconsin, and create industry connections for students and regional employers.

In addition to the work experience, interns will benefit from establishing industry connections that could lead to future job opportunities with regional employers. State companies already supporting the program include Aspirus, Dirksgroup, Malisko, Marshfield Clinic and Rockwell Automation. More companies will be recruited. The program matches students to industry mentors.

Professor Holly Yuan, center, is the cybersecurity center director at ��Ͽ�. / ��Ͽ�

“This program will benefit many students and unemployed workers who want to upskill and transition into cybersecurity, help them develop skillsets they need to be successful and inspire them to pursue a full-time profession in IT and cybersecurity,” said Professor Holly Yuan, grant director, program director and cybersecurity center director at ��Ͽ�.

The program will begin in May with 20 interns, followed by 20 more interns in late summer or fall and run through June 1, 2024.

Students can apply via a website that will be developed by ��Ͽ�. In the interim, interested applicants should email centerforcybersecurity@uwstout.edu. A project coordinator will be hired to coordinate the day-to-day management of the internship program and industry partner relationships.

��Ͽ� student Christina Kimball checks on equipment in a ��Ͽ� cybersecurity lab. / ��Ͽ�

“As a polytechnic institution, it is within ��Ͽ�’s mission for students to gain hands-on experience,” said Anne Hoeltke, director of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs. “Through this grant, students will have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and apply academic concepts in real-world settings. Employers will have the opportunity to evaluate prospective new hires, obtain fresh ideas and foster stronger relationships with ��Ͽ�. For these reasons, the ability to apply scholarships to internships is an easy win-win for students, employers and the university.”

Yuan will work with ��Ͽ�’s Career Services, the Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center, and a project coordinator to administer the internship program. Career Services oversees an existing Cooperative Education and Internship Program on campus that served more than 1,100 students in 2021-22.

Interns will work a minimum of 240 hours and be paid an average of $20 an hour. They can apply for gift cards to assist with barriers for internship completion, including for transportation and gas.

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The next-level goal of the grant will be to replicate ��Ͽ�’s program across the UW System. A scalable, statewide IT and cybersecurity internship program will “provide the state with a head start in the development of critical infrastructure,” Yuan said.

��Ͽ� has been a cybersecurity higher education leader in Wisconsin since 2017, when it became the first four-year institution in the state to be designated a cybersecurity center. The designation coincided with being named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.

In 2022, the university’s Bachelor of Science program in cybersecurity was approved by the UW System Board of Regents. ��Ͽ� also offers a minor, two certificates and two concentrations related to cybersecurity.

Fast Forward grants

Gov. Evers believes the grants will serve state workforce needs.

“Our UW System is a major economic driver in our state and a critical resource for building our state’s next-generation workforce. These grants will help students earn while they learn, ensuring greater access and opportunities for our home-grown talent to start growing their careers right here in Wisconsin,” Evers said.

"DWD is proud to support innovative internship opportunities for Wisconsin students through our strong partnership with the UW System. Students who intern for a Wisconsin company are more likely to stay in the state after graduation, making internships a valuable workforce retention strategy," said Amy Pechacek, DWD secretary. "We continue to identify new ways to build Wisconsin's next generation workforce, providing job-seekers with skills in high-demand fields and employers with high-skill job-seekers."

The Wisconsin Fast Forward program expands employment opportunities and delivers return on investment for employers. Through myriad endeavors, the program supports Wisconsin's economy and workforce.

“As Wisconsin’s talent generator, we educate students to think critically while they also learn valuable skills needed in the workforce,” said UW System President Jay Rothman. “These internships will help students kick-start their careers while meeting employer demand for talent.”

###

A cybersecurity internship grant addressing the needs of the Wisconsin’s critical infrastructure utilities has been awarded to ��Ͽ�. CNIT Dell 1

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Hero Caption: ��Ͽ�'s computer networking labs serve students in several programs, including the cybersecurity major.

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College: College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Department: Mathematics, Statistics & Computer Science Department Cybersecurity Research & Outreach Center (CyROC)

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University: Nova Southeastern University

Degree: M.S. Computer Science

University: Georgia State University

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