In the face of ongoing attacks on the data of individuals, businesses, and governments, the National Cybersecurity Center (NCC) has been formed to focus on advancing techniques and protocols for optimal cyber and physical security. Colorado Springs, Colorado, has been selected as its home, and four of ARCS Foundation Colorado Chapter’s academic partner institutions are involved. The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs was a key factor in the selection due to its long-standing focus on cybersecurity dating back to 1986 and the reputation of its nationally ranked College of Engineering and Applied Science. Also participating are Colorado School of Mines, Colorado State University, and the University of Colorado, Boulder.

The nonprofit NCC will have three components:

• Cyber Research, Education, and Training Center, a platform of current information to drive research and development and to help build an effective, talented workforce.
• Rapid Response Center, a resource for private industry and the public sector to assist with security breaches and evolving threats and trends, and to implement the workforce initiative with other Colorado and eight national higher-education partners.
• Cyber Institute, a dedicated facility for federal agencies and state and local governments to access educational resources and real-time information on the latest trends, security best practices, and management of critical assets.