East Idaho Times

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson has successfully secured $2,875,000 for Idaho State University’s Industrial Cybersecurity Research Laboratory in Idaho Falls. The funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2024 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill at the congressman's request through Community Project Funding (CPF).

Speaking about the significance of the funding, Rep. Simpson emphasized the importance of cybersecurity education, stating, "Idaho State University is positioned to be a global leader in cybersecurity with its Industrial Cybersecurity Research Lab. In an era where cybersecurity is increasingly needed, it is imperative that students have the opportunity to study this critical field."

Idaho State University President Dr. Robert Wagner commended Congressman Simpson's efforts, saying, “We applaud Congressman Simpson’s leadership in helping secure funding for the joint Idaho State University and University of Idaho industrial cybersecurity research program. This collaboration is an exceptional opportunity for ISU students and faculty. It will help make Idahoans and our nation more secure."

The allocated funds will be utilized to establish and equip a shared industrial cybersecurity research laboratory with various resources aimed at enhancing students' education in the field of cybersecurity. This includes sector-specific cyber-informed engineering research stations, industrial control system component kits, hardware design and analysis stations, classroom equipment, and private cloud computing for simulations and remote access.

The project aims to provide students from multiple Idaho universities with the opportunity to conduct research and acquire cybersecurity skills in a realistic simulated environment that mirrors critical infrastructure and industrial systems. Rep. Simpson's support for the funding underscores his commitment to advancing Idaho's priorities and ensuring that tax dollars benefit Idaho communities.

As Idaho's sole appropriator, Rep. Simpson's advocacy for the ISU Cybersecurity Research Lab demonstrates his dedication to fostering educational opportunities and enhancing cybersecurity measures within the state.