Cybersecurity Workforce Development and Training for Underserved Communities Program

The goals of the CWD Program are to decrease the cybersecurity workforce shortage and equity gap by increasing the pipeline of future cybersecurity professionals through workforce development and develop non-traditional training providers’ capacity in cybersecurity workforce development to support their long-term success. The CWD Program supports Goal 3: Secure Cyberspace and Critical Infrastructure in the Department of Homeland Security Strategic Plan 2020-2024 and Goal 1: Cyber Defense in the CISA Strategic Plan 2023-2024. To achieve these goals, a CWD Program cooperative agreement will have three objectives: (1) implement an engaging training hub (virtual, in person, or a hybrid combination) covering both national and regional cybersecurity challenges to deliver cybersecurity training to a target audience of underserved communities and connect participants and employers in one or more CISA regions; (2) implement an apprenticeship and/or placement program for entry-level cybersecurity professionals that is supported by affiliations with cybersecurity entities who may support program enrollees and/or graduates; and (3) place training program graduates into full-time, entry-level cybersecurity jobs.