About the Center
The Center for Cybersecurity’s vision is to be recognized as a leader among peer centers and institutes nationwide, and as a preferred partner in cybersecurity research, workforce education, and professional training across Northwest Florida. The Center serves as the hub for multidisciplinary cybersecurity research, education, outreach, and partnerships.
Mission and Vision
Our Mission
The UWF Center for Cybersecurity’s mission is to serve as the regional hub for innovative cyber solutions that integrate multidisciplinary education, research, and community partnerships.
- Education: We develop innovative, multidisciplinary cybersecurity education and training programs that prepare students for the dynamic cybersecurity industry
- Research: We advance the field of cybersecurity and solve real-world problems through basic and applied research
- Partnerships: We build mutually beneficial partnerships with commercial, governmental, and academic partners that advance the economic and workforce development of our region and nation
Our Vision
The University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity is the premier regional hub and national exemplar for innovative cybersecurity solutions. We are recognized as leaders in the field of cybersecurity, addressing real-world challenges and fueling economic growth through multidisciplinary education, research excellence, and community partnerships.
A Message from Dr. El-Sheikh
As cyber-attacks and data breaches continue to rise, organizations are investing heavily in technology and personnel to protect not only their enterprise but also their greatest assets: information and infrastructure. However, despite this increase in awareness and investment, a majority of organizations have not increased security training and many security professionals are not familiar with advanced persistent threats.
This is why the University of West Florida’s Center for Cybersecurity exists. Through education, research and partnerships, we are working to narrow the cybersecurity skills gap and develop innovative cybersecurity solutions. We aim to do this through advancing cybersecurity knowledge and expertise, connecting ideas and people to active and collaborative research, and pioneering multidisciplinary, dynamic, and state-of-the-art educational programs.
We are honored and proud of what we have accomplished thus far—including recognition as a National Center for Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency, but we know the road is long, and the journey is just beginning.
I invite you to be part of our growing story. Learn more about partnership opportunities, as well as undergraduate and graduate degree programs, research projects, and outreach activities. Connect with us as we elevate the field of cybersecurity to support workforce and economic development in the region and beyond.
Eman El-Sheikh, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President
Center for Cybersecurity
University of West Florida
