Sul Ross State University (SRSU) in Alpine and Lamar University (LU) in Beaumont have teamed up on a $3.4 million grant from the Department of Energy to establish a Center of Excellence focused on cybersecurity for the midstream industry. The grant was submitted by U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, who represents Texas’ 23rd Congressional District, which includes Alpine.
The project, which kicked off with a meeting on Oct. 3 involving representatives from the Department of Energy, SRSU, and LU, will span three years. The initiative aims to enhance research and education in midstream industry cybersecurity through innovative technologies and workforce development.
A key aspect of the project is the creation of both virtual and physical testbeds that will enable real-time data collection. These platforms will facilitate advanced research on cyber threats to the operational technology systems of the midstream industry. The collected data will be used to develop threat detection and response techniques through machine learning and data analytics.
In addition to the research, the project will offer comprehensive training modules in engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, cyber-forensics, and criminal justice. These modules will target workforce development and educational outreach, benefiting students from K-12 to undergraduate and graduate levels. The goal is to equip participants with the skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Dr. Oguzhan Basibuyuk, chair of the Department of Homeland Security and Criminal Justice at SRSU, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort. “As the research team, we want to thank the Department of Energy, Representative Gonzales, both Sul Ross State University and Lamar University administrations, and everyone who contributed effort to this project,” said Basibuyuk. “This initiative not only strengthens our research capabilities but also provides vital educational opportunities for students of all ages. Most importantly, it helps build the skilled workforce needed to support the energy industry in our region.”
