CyManII, Cyber Readiness Institute launch free cyber training for manufacturers

FEBRUARY 12, 2024 — The Cyber Readiness Institute (CRI) and Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CyManII) have launched a pilot program aimed at elevating cyber readiness and security within the energy manufacturing sector. This strategic initiative emphasizes CRI and CyManII’s shared commitment to strengthening their defenses against evolving cyber threats by providing essential support and resources for small and medium-sized manufacturers.

Through this partnership, CyManII — led by UTSA — will provide up to 200 U.S. manufacturers in the energy sector with access to CRI’s free Cyber Readiness Program. Focused on human behavior, the Cyber Readiness Program delivers cyber best practices and guides organizations through the development of key business continuity measures. Manufacturers will benefit from personalized guidance from a dedicated CRI Certified Cyber Coach, establishing a foundation of understanding and translating knowledge into actionable security measures.

“This pilot program is an important first step in strengthening the cyber readiness of small and medium manufacturers,” noted Karen S. Evans, CRI Managing Director. “By melding CRI’s resources with CyManII’s expertise, our aim is to forge a more resilient and secure manufacturing ecosystem in the energy sector.”

“This partnership between CyManII and CRI delivers necessary training that addresses the root cause of cyber-attacks aimed at U.S. manufacturers.”

Howard Grimes, Ph.D., CEO of CyManII, added, “U.S. manufacturing is an engine for our national economy and security. It is critical that we cyber secure our manufacturers, especially the small and medium-sized companies. This partnership between CyManII and CRI delivers necessary training that addresses the root cause of cyber-attacks aimed at U.S. manufacturers.”

This collaboration between CRI and CyManII will offer valuable resources to enhance the cyber readiness of energy manufacturers and mitigate potential risk in a vital sector of the U.S. economy. As cyber threats evolve, the pilot program serves as a proactive measure, equipping manufacturers with the knowledge and tools necessary to safeguard critical supply chains. The partnership will facilitate the exchange of best practices, acting as a catalyst for the ongoing development of free cybersecurity tools and resources specifically tailored to small and medium-sized manufacturers.

Manufacturers interested in participating in the pilot program can apply here.

The Cyber Readiness Institute (CRI) is a non-profit initiative that convenes business leaders from across sectors and geographic regions to produce free cybersecurity tools for small and medium-sized businesses. Its mission is to advance the cyber readiness of these SMBs to improve the security of global supply chains. CRI’s tools and resources focus on human behavior and emphasize employee education and awareness.

The Institute is housed within the Center for Global Enterprise, a New York-based non-profit applied research organization. CRI was co-founded by former IBM CEO Samuel J. Palmisano and executives from Mastercard, Microsoft, ExxonMobil and PSP Partners as a follow-up to the work of the President’s Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity (2016). Member companies include Apple, Mastercard, Microsoft and Principal Financial Group. ExxonMobil and PSP Partners are founding members that continue to support the objectives and programs of CRI.

CyManII secures and sustains U.S. manufacturing through the development of partnerships and the deployment of innovative technologies that will empower a skilled workforce. Its vision is to be the leading provider of integrated cybersecurity and energy-efficient solutions for U.S. manufacturers as they undergo digital transformation.

The Institute is committed to empowering manufacturers with the tools they need to secure their physical systems from cyber threats, optimize energy usage and improve operational efficiency. Through cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions, it aims to help U.S. manufacturers become more secure, competitive, resilient and sustainable in a rapidly evolving global market.