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Bossier City Paves Way for Cyber Innovation Growth

Aerial view of the expanding Cyber Innovation Center in Bossier City, Louisiana.

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News Summary

Bossier City, Louisiana, is set for significant growth in the cybersecurity sector under Kevin Nolten, the new president of the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC). With ambitious plans for expansion, including a 3,000-acre district to support local businesses and military operations, the CIC aims to enhance economic opportunities and workforce development. With previous federal funding success, the center’s mission focuses on proactive planning, innovative technology, and enriching lives through job creation and educational resources.

Bossier City: A Hub for Cyber Growth and Innovation!

Bossier City, Louisiana, is buzzing with excitement as Kevin Nolten takes the reins as the new president of the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC). Appointed in January 2024, he is eager to share big plans that can make a fantastic difference for both local businesses and military operations.

A 17-Year Journey to Innovate

For those who may not know, the CIC has been a dedicated player in the technology and cybersecurity arena for 17 years. This nonprofit organization has aimed to enhance connections between businesses and military entities, and Nolten embodies this mission by pouring his energy into ensuring seamless collaboration. He likens his role to that of a traffic cop, matchmaker, and juggler, indicating that his daily tasks demand the ability to balance a multitude of opportunities and collaborations.

Expanding the Cyber Innovation Park

Currently, the CIC spans across a generous 150 acres of Cyber Innovation Park and the adjoining Bossier Parish Community College, but Nolten has his sights set even higher. The vision includes expanding this footprint to a 3,000-acre overlay district! Sounds ambitious, right? To make this dream a reality, a master planning committee has already been assembled to map out this expansive space.

Why Plan Ahead?

As the spotlight of the military and cybersecurity sectors continues to shine brightly on Bossier City, Nolten emphasizes the need for proactive planning. With big announcements expected to roll out in 2025, the CIC aims to create a roadmap that can accommodate new businesses geared toward supporting Barksdale Air Force Base, allowing for sustainable growth and innovation in the area.

Fueling the Local Economy

One of the CIC’s pivotal roles is to funnel federal dollars into Bossier City’s economy. Thanks to collaboration with the Air Force Global Strike Command and the Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the CIC has successfully attracted $100 million in congressional appropriations over the past 15 years, retaining an impressive $75 million locally due to its initiatives.

Forging Successful Partnerships

Success stories abound at the CIC, with one standout being a significant contract awarded to the company Praeses for their contributions to Barksdale Air Force Base and other military facilities. The CIC also fosters local business growth by providing secure workspaces for companies engaged in classified projects, a crucial element of the current landscape.

Innovative Tech That Saves

Among its facilities, STRIKEWERX, located within the CIC, offers an infrastructure bursting with technological marvels, including VR training platforms, 3D printers, and a unique B-52 mid-air refueling trainer. These advanced simulators not only facilitate robust training but also cut the costs associated with air refueling operations significantly. With air refueling for a B-52 costing around $25,000 per hour and the KC-135 ranging from $18,000 to $20,000 per hour, the development of simulators has yielded an astounding 50% reduction in aircraft seat time—translating into nearly $400 million in savings for the Air Force over just five years on a modest $25 million investment. Now that’s smart spending!

Building a Cyber-Literate Workforce

Nolten and the CIC are also aspiring to fill essential gaps in education by introducing cybersecurity to K-12 students in Louisiana. The objective is to mold a future workforce that is both cyber-literate and equipped to thrive in the tech landscape. Teaching cybersecurity as early as kindergarten is seen as pivotal—not only for online safety but also for creating job opportunities in the ever-growing tech and cybersecurity sector.

Funding Innovation and Job Creation

The message is clear: the CIC is focused on creating not just contracts but also new job opportunities for the region. With $129 million in federal funding recently announced for CYBER.ORG and STRIKEWERX, the groundwork is laid for enhanced innovation and workforce development. CYBER.ORG received a remarkable $34 million from CISA, while STRIKEWERX’s collaboration with Air Force Global Strike Command netted a whopping $95.6 million! This partnership promises to fuel innovation and streamline technology transfer, contributing to a vibrant economic future.

Enriching Lives in Northwest Louisiana

In a nutshell, the mission of the CIC is clear: to enrich lives in northwest Louisiana by creating robust job opportunities and valuable educational resources focused on technology and cybersecurity. With Kevin Nolten at the helm, there’s a genuine sense of excitement about the bright future that awaits Bossier City and its bustling innovation landscape!