In light of recent high-profile cyber attacks across the nation, the Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation is taking proactive measures to protect its digital network and power resources. AECC believes recent cyber attacks prove that the United States’ power grid could be a target for hackers, so the company is working with The Forge Institute in Little Rock to fortify its cybersecurity.
“We’re training key personnel with a proactive program that involves an understanding of the cyber arena,” explained Robert H. McClanahan, Vice President of I.T. and Chief Technology Officer for AECC. “Forge Institute is a great resource to ensure that AECC’s cybersecurity efforts exceed the expectations of our 17 member electric distribution systems that serve approximately 1.2 million Arkansans.”
The Forge Institute provides a number of workforce development courses and other offerings that empower its partners with technologies and capabilities to advance cyber operational objectives and enhance national security posture.
“Arkansas is becoming the rallying point for cybersecurity. By participating in and supporting Forge Institute’s Training Academy, organizations including AECC benefit from having access to robust professional training from entry level bootcamps to advanced penetration testing courses like Red Team Operations,” said McClanahan.
Forge Institute provides training for employees at all levels of the organization. According to Forge Institute CEO Lee Watson, anyone in your organization can and should be trained in cybersecurity.
“All employees in your company are targets for hackers,” Watson said. “That’s why we encourage corporate leaders to make cybersecurity training available to everyone in the organization. Remember, your staff is the frontline of your cyber defense.
Because we’re so digitally connected, nearly every industry must take steps to harden its cybersecurity,” advised Watson. “A well trained workforce is your best defense.”
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