Bossier City Cyber Innovation Center Wins Workforce Innovator of the Year Award

Bossier City Celebrates Cyber Innovation Center’s Recognition for Workforce Development

Exciting news from Bossier City as the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC) has been recognized as the Workforce Innovator of the Year by the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) during the annual 2024 Louisiana Business Excellence Awards! This commendation highlights the hard work and dedication of the CIC in transforming workforce education and training across the state and beyond.

A True Trailblazer

The award is a prestigious accolade that honors individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to developing the Louisiana workforce. LABI noted the CIC as a true trailblazer, commendably excelling in creating, implementing, and supporting high-quality educational initiatives that aim to bridge the employment gap in the region.

Kevin Nolten, the president of CIC, expressed his gratitude for this remarkable recognition. “It is an incredible honor to be recognized as the top innovator in workforce development for Louisiana. This award reflects our commitment to transforming how we approach education and national defense,” he shared. Nolten emphasized that while awards are not the primary motivation for their efforts, such recognition inspires them to continue enhancing opportunities for communities in northwest Louisiana and throughout the entire state.

What Makes CIC Special?

As the anchor of the impressive 3,000-acre National Cyber Research Park, located in Bossier City, the CIC excels in fostering the development and expansion of a high-skill, knowledge-based workforce. This innovative center promotes research, education, and technological innovation to support the rapidly growing needs of federal agencies, private sector companies, and academic institutions nationwide.

Additionally, the CIC’s initiative, CYBER.ORG, has been playing a key role in expanding cyber career awareness and resources for K-12 students, while STRIKEWERX focuses on technology transition and innovation resources for the Air Force Global Strike Command. These initiatives illustrate CIC’s dedication and pioneering efforts in workforce development.

Equipping Future Generations

Dr. Laurie Salvail, the executive director of CYBER.ORG, highlighted the importance of this award: “This honor underscores our dedication to equipping the next generation with the critical skills needed to navigate an increasingly digital world.” She stressed that their collaborative efforts with educators and partners are essential in preparing a skilled workforce capable of tackling cyber threats, ensuring a safer digital future for everyone.

Meanwhile, Jeff Beene, the Director of the STRIKEWERX Partnership Intermediary Agreement, noted that the recognition aligns perfectly with their mission to explore cutting-edge technology to overcome challenges faced by Air Force Global Strike Command. “We are thrilled that our work is helping move the needle not only for the command’s modernization efforts but the region and state as a whole,” he added.

A Celebration of Community Success

The Louisiana Business Excellence Awards spotlight nine categories, celebrating individuals and organizations throughout Louisiana that positively impact their communities. The winners were feted during a special luncheon on November 20th at the Renaissance Hotel in Baton Rouge, with many attending to support and recognize the innovative leaders shaping the business landscape.

LABI President and CEO Will Green commented, “The ongoing work to improve the state’s business climate is a collective effort, and the job creators honored through the Louisiana Business Excellence Awards play a pivotal role in doing that.” He emphasized that these organizations drive growth and innovation while raising the bar for excellence across Louisiana.

Looking Ahead

With this recognition, the Cyber Innovation Center in Bossier City certainly sets a commendable example for workforce development in Louisiana. Their commitment to education and community engagement highlights the importance of cultivating skills and knowledge in today’s increasingly digital society. We can’t wait to see how they continue to lead the charge in fostering a bright and innovative future for the entire state!