Louisiana State University Doubles Down on Larger Student-Run SOC

In an effort to provide students with increased access to real-world cybersecurity experience, Louisiana State University has expanded its relationship with cybersecurity solutions provider TekStream to launch TigerSOC, a new student-run security operations center. The new, larger SOC is modeled on the university's existing state-funded, student-run SOC, created in partnership with TekStream, Splunk, and AWS in 2023, which serves 38 higher education institutions in Louisiana.

"With the launch of TigerSOC, Louisiana is home to two world-class student-run SOCs serving the state's universities and commercial customers across the nation," a news announcement noted.

Built on TekStream's co-managed security monitoring services, TigerSOC will provide organizations with access to 24/7 security coverage while helping students develop hands-on cybersecurity skills. TekStream will provide students with training, oversight, and career counseling, as well as cover hours when students are unavailable to run the SOC. Participating students will be able to gain up to 1,000 hours of frontline cybersecurity experience in one year, acquiring skills equivalent to those of a mid-level cyber engineer before graduation, according to the announcement.

"Students are the future of our workforce," said LSU CIO Craig Woolley, in a statement. "TigerSOC provides our students with a unique opportunity to gain invaluable cybersecurity skills that give them the head-start they need in today's competitive job market. We're excited TigerSOC is not only paving the way for LSU graduates to be successful, but we also hope it sets a new industry standard for the level of hands-on education undergraduate students can receive on their path to long-term career success."

"The cybersecurity industry is at a unique crossroads," TekStream CEO Rob Jansen said. "There is a significant need for upskilling and developing new talent across the workforce. Meanwhile, the global economy is forcing many to tighten their budgets. Nearly 60% of current industry practitioners fear existing skill shortages put their organizations at risk. TigerSOC offers public and private entities an opportunity to invest in affordable, domestic talent while building the future of the workforce."

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

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