HBCU Receives $2M for Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab

Courtesy of Jackson State University

Entergy Charitable Foundation awarded Jackson State University a $2 million grant to establish the Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance cybersecurity within the energy sector. The school announced the news during a press conference on Monday, where Entergy Mississippi president and CEO Haley Fisackerly presented JSU President Marcus Thompson, Ph.D., with a ceremonial check. Local leaders, including Congressman Bennie Thompson who has long championed JSU’s initiatives, attended the event.

Fueling the Workforce

This new lab will serve as an innovation hub designed to train the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. It will address the urgent need for skilled workers in nuclear, electric, and natural gas companies and electrical cooperatives. “I am honored to receive this generous grant on behalf of Jackson State University. This gift will have a lasting impact on the lives of our students and the future of the energy sector,” said Thompson.

Establishing the Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab marks a significant step in JSU’s commitment to workforce development and cybersecurity education. The facility will provide students with hands-on experience protecting critical power grid infrastructure from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Fisackerly emphasized the vital role of cybersecurity in today’s society, stating, “Electricity isn’t a luxury for most people; it’s a necessity. And so is thwarting cyber threats in the energy sector.”

The growing cybersecurity workforce gap is alarming. There is a deficit of approximately 3.4 million professionals globally and over 700,000 job openings in the U.S., according to (ISC)². In light of this crisis, JSU aims to enhance its cybersecurity curriculum and resources to better prepare graduates for careers in this field.

The investment also highlights the emerging threat landscape. Global cybercrime costs are projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, according to Cybersecurity Ventures. As the severity and frequency of cyberattacks increase, the collaboration between JSU and Entergy is a proactive measure to build robust defenses in the energy sector. Entergy chair and CEO Drew Marsh added, “Our partnership with Jackson State University is a testament to our commitment to creating opportunities for students and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.” Over the coming years, JSU will receive the grant in multiple installments, dedicated solely to developing the lab.