Greitens signs agreement with Israeli firm to provide cybersecurity training to Missouri colleges, universities

(From Gov. Eric Greitens)

Governor Eric Greitens signed an agreement this week during a trade mission to Israel that will help provide cybersecurity training to Missouri students.

The memorandum of understanding between the Missouri Department of Higher Education and HackerUSA paves the way for partnerships between the company and Missouri colleges and universities to offer programs designed to help technology professionals protect their organizations and citizens from cyber attacks. HackerUSA is operated by HackerU, a leader in the field of cybersecurity, headquartered in Israel.

“Cyber security can be a great strength for our state, and we can create more good jobs for Missourians,” said Governor Greitens. I’m excited about this partnership, and look forward to training the next generation of cyber leaders in our state through this partnership.”

According to the MOU, the Department of Higher Education will help facilitate partnerships between colleges and universities interested in working with HackerUSA to offer training programs focused on protecting information technology systems. Training provided by HackerUSA will meet industry standards and adhere to all accreditation requirements necessary to award credentials to students who complete the cybersecurity training programs.

“We need to train the next generation to recognize and combat cyber threats. Missouri has great potential to be a leader in cybersecurity. We look forward to working with business and education leaders in Missouri to build partnerships. We are grateful for Governor Greitens’ commitment to cybersecurity and education,” said Ariel Cohen, CEO of HackerU.

HackerU has been providing professional cybersecurity services and training to corporations, government and military organizations worldwide for more than 20 years. HackerUSA was established to bring the training to technology professionals in the United States. The company offers instruction at dozens of locations across the country and has partnered with higher education institutions in several states including New York and Florida.

The Governor departed Nov. 5 for the week-long trade mission to Israel. The goal of the trip, funded by the Hawthorn Foundation and the Republican Jewish Coalition, is to strengthen economic and cultural bonds between Missouri and the State of Israel and establish innovative partnerships in higher education, cybersecurity, agriculture, and public safety.