Boise State University’s Cyberdome initiative is making significant strides in bolstering cybersecurity through a pioneering competency development program. Launched in 2021, Cyberdome pairs cybersecurity students with local institutions, offering hands-on work experience to address the growing demand for cybersecurity talent. The program collaborates with cybersecurity companies like Stellar Cyber and Sophos to provide practical cybersecurity services to rural Idaho districts, counties, and cities.
In the pilot phase, students engaged in monitoring over 5,000 assets, analyzing 53,000 incidents, and notifying clients of 350 potential real-time attacks from January to July 2023. Beyond fulfilling the crucial cybersecurity needs of organizations, Cyberdome has become a valuable resource for students at Boise State University, providing them with real-world experience and on-the-ground exposure. The internship, funded by grants, offers a unique model where students actively contribute to securing systems while gaining insights into their chosen field.
The success of Cyberdome is not only measured by its impact on students but also by the positive outcomes for the organizations involved. Institutions like Lewis-Clark State College and Kendrick Joint School District 283 express gratitude for the access to resources they would not afford otherwise, emphasizing the critical need for such initiatives, especially in smaller districts. As the program expands, there is a hope to double student involvement and offer more roles in advanced cybersecurity areas.
