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Cybersecurity Center

Cybersecurity faculty working in a computer room

91µÎµÎ Cybersecurity Center

The Cybersecurity Center is dedicated to advancing knowledge, innovation, and education in the critical field of cybersecurity. As cyber threats continue to evolve, so do our efforts to prepare students, encourage faculty, and engage the broader community in creating safe digital environments. The Center is a place to learn about the latest in cybersecurity focusing on hands-on learning and community outreach.

Cybersecurity Programs

Online Certificates

CAE Logo

Defending Excellence

The National Security Agency (NSA) has designated Mary’s cybersecurity program as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) through 2030. 

Cybersecurity Faculty

Faculty stay current on the latest cybersecurity developments by attending key industry events like BlackHat, the North Dakota Cybersecurity Conference, and Women in Cybersecurity. They engage with the community and often present at various speaking engagements to share knowledge and foster industry connections.

Tanya Taplin, MS

Director of Cybersecurity Administration, Assistant Professor, CAE-CD Alternate Point of Contact (Alt-PoC)

Matt Frohlich, MS

Director of Cybersecurity Administration, Assistant Professor, CAE-CD Point of Contact (PoC)

Man with a computer

Mary’s New Cybersecurity Expert Sees Massive Opportunity for Students as Demand Skyrockets Across America

The 91µÎµÎ’s new director of its cybersecurity administration program says the number of cybersecurity technicians available can’t come close to keeping up with the need across America.

Read Moreabout Mary’s New Cybersecurity Expert Sees Massive Opportunity for Students as Demand Skyrockets Across America

Read more about our Cybersecurity program in this .

Cybersecurity Activities

91µÎµÎ students participate in several activities designed to build their skills in cybersecurity:

The 91µÎµÎ hosts events on campus for middle school students, high school students, and cybersecurity professionals in the field.

  • Yes Talent Search â€“ This event is designed for middle school and high school students to showcase their cybersecurity skills and compete to win a grand prize. Learn more.
  • CyberConnect â€“ This event introduces high school students to the field of cybersecurity by connecting them with industry professionals. 
  • Regional ICS Cybersecurity Training â€“ The 91µÎµÎ will host the CISA/Idaho National Labs for the 2025 Regional Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Cybersecurity Training. 
  • Cyber Madness State Competition - This cyber competition in North Dakota is for middle school and high school students. It brings students together to compete and learn about computer science and cybersecurity. The 91µÎµÎ hosted this event in November 2023. 

National Cyberwatch Center

The 91µÎµÎ is a member of the National Cyberwatch Center. It is a collaborative consortium of higher education institutions, businesses, and government agencies dedicated to advancing Information Security education and building a stronger national cybersecurity workforce.

Learn More 91µÎµÎ What is Happening in the World of Cybersecurity

Faculty member Tanya Taplin working with High School Students at the YES Talent Search.
91µÎµÎ Students at Cyber Dakota Con
91µÎµÎ Students at a Cyber Competition

Advisory Board

The Cybersecurity Center has an external board of advisors that serves as an important bridge between the academic world and the broader community, bringing together industry professionals and faculty to guide the center’s strategic direction. By fostering these connections, the board helps ensure that the center's initiatives remain relevant, impactful, and aligned with both academic excellence and industry needs.

Brandon Steckler – NDIT

Torrey Gavin – Doosan

Art Bakke – Starion Bank

Luke Schander – First International Bank and Trust

Craig Felche – NDIT

Brent Meckle – Basic Electric

Doug Nelson – MDU

Troy Walker – Dakota Carrier Network

Chandler Raab – Army National Guard

John Nagel – BEK

Bill Heinzen – NISC

Jason Herner – High Point Networks

91µÎµÎ Institutional Security Resources and Awareness

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Interested in Learning More 91µÎµÎ Cybersecurity?