H.R. 8110: Cyber Ready Workforce Act

The Cyber Ready Workforce Act is designed to create and expand registered apprenticeship programs specifically in the field of cybersecurity. Here’s a breakdown of what the bill proposes:

Grant Program Establishment

The bill establishes a grant program under the Department of Labor that will provide financial support to organizations known as workforce intermediaries. These intermediaries will use the grant money to set up, implement, and grow registered apprenticeship programs focusing on cybersecurity.

Definitions and Roles

• Registered Apprenticeship Program: This refers to programs that are officially registered following the National Apprenticeship Act.
• Workforce Intermediary: This is an entity that facilitates these apprenticeship programs. It can include businesses, community organizations, state or local educational boards, postsecondary institutions, and nonprofits.

Program Requirements

To qualify for the grant, apprenticeship programs in cybersecurity must include:

• Technical training and workplace mentorship.
• Industry-recognized certifications, such as CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, and others.
• Programs should aim to help apprentices achieve skills that lead to careers in roles like cybersecurity technicians, computer support specialists, and security specialists.

Use of Funds

Required Activities

Workforce intermediaries must use at least 85% of grant funds for:

• Assisting in the apprenticeship registration process with the Department of Labor.
• Developing training curricula in partnership with local businesses, based on industry standards.
• Supporting apprentices through services like career counseling, mentorship, and assistance with costs related to training, such as transportation or childcare.

Allowable Activities

The remaining funds (up to 15%) can be used for:

• Marketing the apprenticeship model to employers and educational institutions.
• Recruiting potential apprentices, especially targeting underrepresented populations.
• Collaborating with other workforce entities to enhance program effectiveness and avoid duplication.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes the appropriation of necessary funds to execute these initiatives effectively.

Relevant Companies

• MSFT (Microsoft Corporation): Microsoft is involved in providing cybersecurity certifications and training programs. If the apprenticeship programs increase in demand, they could see a direct impact on their education and certification services.
• CSCO (Cisco Systems, Inc.): As a major provider of networking and cybersecurity solutions, Cisco may benefit from a stronger cybersecurity workforce, leading to greater demand for their products and solutions.