On Monday, Oct. 6, the MassCyberCenter team hosed the ninth annual Massachusetts Cybersecurity Forum at the State House, where stakeholders from the private and public sectors across the state gathered to showcase the vibrant cybersecurity ecosystem and highlight Massachusetts as a national cybersecurity leader.
MassTech Deputy Director and Chief Investment Strategist Ben Linville-Engler's opening remarks centered on the success of the MassCyberCenter’s Security Operations Center (SOC) and Cyber Range Initiative, specifically how it support’s the state’s cybersecurity ecosystem and workforce development initiatives. He also announced a $300,000 grant to the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) to build a SOC on its campus.
The first panel session explored the critical role cybersecurity plays in safeguarding the defense industrial base (DIB), a cornerstone of national security and economic strength. Panelists from UMass Lowell, Wingbrace, Ciseve and CyberTrust Massachusetts discussed how targeted workforce development and innovation are essential to protecting defense-related supply chains and infrastructure. The panel emphasized the need for specialized cybersecurity talent capable of addressing the unique challenges faced by defense contractors and manufacturers, including compliance with federal standards like the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).
The second panel session focused on the evolving cybersecurity landscape for small businesses in Massachusetts and how they are adapting to protect their operations and customers. Panelists from the Massachusetts Small Business Development Centers, Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, Massachusetts Retailers Association and the Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) discussed the growing threats facing small enterprises and how these risks can have devastating financial and reputational consequences, especially for businesses with limited resources. By investing in cybersecurity, small businesses are protecting assets, reinforcing customer confidence and contributing to the state's broader economic stability.
Attendees also participated in a lively round of Ctrl-Alt-Destruct, a cybersecurity-themed card game that brings humor and camaraderie to the world of IT. Designed to reinforce cyber concepts in an entertaining way, the game invited participants to compete, collaborate, and laugh their way through fictional cyber mishaps and quirky scenarios. It was a refreshing reminder that even in a high-stakes field like cybersecurity, there’s room for fun, creativity and connection.
The MassCyberCenter team would also like to thank everyone who made the Forum possible state leadership, speakers, panel moderators, panelists and the Massachusetts Cybersecurity Strategy Council.
