Shaping the cyber workforce: MCI event at Ole Miss focuses on preparing tomorrow's cyber leaders
Rivalries took a back seat as the Mississippi Cyber Initiative (MCI) brought together teams from Mississippi State University (MSU) and the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) for a transformative two-day cyber event consisting of the MCI Quarterly Summit and the Cyber Faculty Retreat.
Held Feb. 25-26 at the Jackson Avenue Center in Oxford, this event marked a pivotal moment for the state’s cyber workforce. MCI partnered agencies, faculty and students from universities across the state, representing the fields of Computer Science Engineering and Intelligence & Security Studies, came together to explore the power of collaboration in tackling Mississippi’s growing cybersecurity workforce challenges.
The two-part event not only allowed Ole Miss to showcase their front-line work in the fields of cybersecurity and intelligence but also served as a unique platform for stakeholders from across the Magnolia State as well as outside our boundaries to connect, learn, and expand their networks. Agencies such as Accelerate Mississippi, the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program, ISG Cyber, and C-Spire were present, sharing valuable insights on workforce development and apprenticeship programs designed to strengthen the state's cyber talent pool.
Attendees enjoyed two dynamic panel sessions featuring industry leaders who shared their perspectives on the urgent need for skilled cyber professionals and strategies for retaining top talent. Additionally, Ole Miss students took the stage to lead their own panel, seeking guidance from the MCI community on how to break into the competitive cyber workforce.
“We’re continuing to expand MCI’s reach across Mississippi, and this event is a clear example of how collaboration is helping drive the future of cybersecurity in our state,” said Jim Martin, MSU Associate Vice President for Corporate Engagement and Economic Development.
“Meeting the evolving needs of the cybersecurity field is a collective responsibility,” added Dr. Viola Acoff, Dean of the School of Engineering at Ole Miss. “Events like these are essential to shaping a stronger, more skilled technology workforce for the future.”
Generous support for the two-day event was provided by the program’s sponsors: agj Systems & Networks, Upton Technologies, Yoste Strategic Partners, and the Mississippi Space Grant Consortium.
MCI will host more summits, trainings and outreach opportunities throughout the year. To stay informed on those events, follow MCI on X and LinkedIn.
