Cyber Defense Center

About Us

The Cyber Defense Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving collective cyber defense and protecting critical infrastructure. Through our ASCEND program, we deliver world-class OT cybersecurity certifications, immersive training, mentorship, and workforce development with purpose. Our DEFEND program extends these skills into the community, providing wartime readiness, mutual aid, and enterprise-grade solutions to rural and municipal utilities at little or no cost. At our core, the Center drives ethical and open research to advance innovations in OT defense, AI, cybercrime, drones, and grid security through initiatives like Force Labs, GridSim, and PhakeOut. These programs collectively educate defenders, empower communities, and will shape the future of cybersecurity.