Oklahoma City, October 27, 2025
Rose State College has begun construction on a $10 million cybersecurity center aimed at training 500 students annually in ethical hacking and data protection. This 20,000-square-foot facility will feature advanced tools, including virtual reality simulations, and has received input from local companies. With a focus on addressing the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, the center is expected to enhance Oklahoma’s technology landscape and is scheduled to be completed by fall 2026.
Oklahoma City, OK – Rose State College Breaks Ground on $10 Million Cybersecurity Center
Oklahoma City, OK – Rose State College has launched construction on a $10 million cybersecurity center to meet the growing needs of Oklahoma’s technology industry. Announced today, the 20,000-square-foot facility aims to train 500 students each year in essential skills like ethical hacking and data protection. This initiative directly addresses the increasing demand for skilled professionals in a sector facing persistent digital threats.
Facility Highlights and Training Focus
The new center will incorporate advanced tools, including virtual reality simulations, to provide hands-on learning experiences. These features are intended to prepare students for real-world challenges in cybersecurity. Development of the program involved collaboration with major local companies, such as Devon Energy, ensuring that the curriculum aligns with industry standards and practical requirements.
Training will emphasize protecting critical infrastructure, a priority given the rising incidents of cyber attacks nationwide. The facility is expected to enhance Oklahoma’s position as a hub for tech innovation, particularly in areas related to national security. Completion is slated for fall 2026, allowing time for full integration into the college’s offerings.
Community and Industry Support
Local technology leaders gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony, demonstrating strong regional backing. Several firms have committed to providing internships for participants, bridging the gap between education and employment. This support underscores the center’s role in fostering a skilled workforce tailored to Oklahoma’s economic growth.
Pilot versions of similar programs at the college have already shown promising results, with a 95% job placement rate for graduates. Students entering the field express enthusiasm for contributing to community safety, particularly in safeguarding vital sectors like healthcare from potential breaches. The center builds on this success by expanding access to more learners.
Addressing Broader Cyber Threats
Oklahoma’s tech sector has seen rapid expansion, but it grapples with a shortage of qualified cybersecurity experts. The new facility responds to this by scaling up education efforts amid a landscape where cyber threats continue to evolve. By focusing on ethical practices and protective strategies, the program aims to equip students with the knowledge to defend against sophisticated attacks.
The initiative highlights Oklahoma City’s growing importance in national security innovation. As digital reliance increases across industries, facilities like this one are crucial for developing local talent capable of addressing both state-level and broader risks. The college’s investment reflects a proactive approach to securing the region’s digital infrastructure.
Background on the Project
Rose State College, a key educational institution in the Oklahoma City area, has long prioritized programs that align with workforce demands. The cybersecurity center represents a significant step in this direction, funded through a combination of state resources and partnerships. Its design prioritizes accessibility, aiming to attract a diverse group of students interested in tech careers.
Prior to groundbreaking, extensive planning ensured the facility meets modern standards for cybersecurity education. This includes spaces for collaborative learning and simulation labs that mimic actual threat scenarios. The project’s timeline allows for phased openings, with initial training modules potentially available before full completion.
In the context of Oklahoma’s economy, where energy and tech sectors intersect, the center’s focus on data protection is particularly relevant. Companies like Devon Energy, which contributed input, operate in environments vulnerable to cyber risks, making trained professionals essential. The expected annual intake of 500 students positions the college to make a substantial impact on the local job market.
Broader trends show cybersecurity as one of the fastest-growing fields in the U.S., with demand projected to rise steadily. Oklahoma’s efforts, through projects like this, contribute to a national push for better digital defenses. Students will benefit from a curriculum that evolves with emerging threats, ensuring long-term relevance.
The groundbreaking marks a milestone for Rose State College and the surrounding community. By investing in such infrastructure, Oklahoma City reinforces its commitment to innovation and security in an increasingly connected world. As construction progresses, anticipation builds for how this center will shape the next generation of cybersecurity experts.
FAQ
What is the cost of the new cybersecurity center at Rose State College?
The cybersecurity center costs $10 million.
Where is the cybersecurity center being built?
The cybersecurity center is being built at Rose State College in Oklahoma City, OK.
What is the size of the facility?
The facility is 20,000 square feet.
How many students will the center train each year?
The center will train 500 students yearly.
What skills will students learn at the center?
Students will learn ethical hacking and data protection.
When is the center expected to be completed?
Completion is set for fall 2026.
What advanced features does the center include?
The center features virtual reality simulations.
Which companies provided input for the center?
The center was designed with input from firms like Devon Energy.
What is the job placement rate from pilot programs?
Pilot programs boast a 95% job placement rate.
How does the center address cyber threats?
The center responds to surging demand in Oklahoma’s tech sector amid rising cyber threats.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $10 million |
| Size | 20,000 square feet |
| Annual Student Capacity | 500 students yearly |
| Training Focus | Ethical hacking and data protection |
| Advanced Technology | Virtual reality simulations |
| Industry Collaboration | Input from firms like Devon Energy |
| Job Placement | 95% from pilots |
| Completion Date | Fall 2026 |
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