Google And SANS Launch Cybersecurity Academy For BIPOC As Biden Unveils National Strategy

The SANS Institute has partnered with Google to launch the SANS Cloud Diversity Academy (SCDA) as the White House releases it long-anticipated National Cybersecurity Strategy.

SANS is the world’s largest provider of cybersecurity training and certifications. Now, through the SCDA, it is empowering Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), women, and other underrepresented groups to launch their cybersecurity careers in a matter of months.

The Academy will provide training in SANS courses and associated GIAC certifications and hands-on labs, focusing on cloud security.

“As more businesses adopt cloud technology, the need for skilled professionals in cloud security becomes increasingly vital,” Frank Kim, SANS Institute Fellow, Cloud Curriculum lead, and CISO-in-Residence at YL Ventures, said in a statement.

“SANS Cloud Diversity Academy equips professionals with essential skills to protect businesses and their data through SANS OnDemand training & hands-on labs with industry experts.”

A White House Priority

The Academy launch comes as the Biden-Harris Administration releases its long-anticipated National Cybersecurity Strategy as part of its Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

The strategy shifts the burden of cybersecurity from individuals and local governments to software providers, expands mandatory cybersecurity requirements, and bolsters the country’s defense against cyber threats.

“SCDA directly supports the Administration’s strategic objective of developing a national strategy to strengthen our cyber workforce and tackle the lack of diversity in the field head-on,” said Max Shuftan, Director of Mission Programs and Partnerships at SANS Institute.

“We are committed to reducing the talent shortage and driving greater diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring careers in cybersecurity are well within reach for all Americans.”

The SANS Cloud Diversity Academy applications are open until April 14, 2023.