July 31, 2026, 10:49 a.m. MT
The University of Texas at El Paso is getting a boost to its workforce development programs.
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, announced a $2 million grant Wednesday, July 29, aimed at bolstering UTEP’s artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity workforce development programs to ensure professionals are equipped to protect critical infrastructure as cyberattacks from foreign adversaries continue to increase.
The funding comes from the U.S. National Science Foundation as part of the CyberAICorps Scholarship for Service (SFS) Program, which was established by the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2014, amended by the National Defense Authorization Acts for 2018 and 2021, and expanded to include the AI workforce authority through the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act.
“We must take steps to defend against cyberattacks by training students with the AI and cybersecurity skills needed to protect our critical technology systems,” Cornyn said in a news release. “This grant will help Texas grow the ranks of cyber professionals by funding specialized training at universities across the nation, including at some of Texas’ top academic institutions. I was proud to help negotiate the CHIPS and Science Act, which made this award possible, and I look forward to seeing the advancements in AI and cybersecurity it will support.”
Specifically, the grant will fund the following:
- Provide resources for specialized training in AI and cybersecurity;
- Support students’ placement and retention in the CyberAI mission of government organizations;
- Help advance the CyberAI field and the protection of U.S. national security.
Adam Powell covers government and politics for the El Paso Times and can be reached via email at apowell@elpasotimes.com.
