FBI, Texas Tech System sign agreement to strengthen America's national security needs

On Monday, a historic agreement between the FBI, Texas Tech University and Angelo State University was signed at the Texas Tech University System offices.

The entities signed a landmark Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to advance U.S. national security, cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection.

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"The FBI's mission of protecting the American people includes safeguarding vital assets like U.S. critical infrastructure from all adversaries, both foreign and domestic," said B. Chad Yarbough, operations director of the FBI's Criminal and Cyber Branch. "Working with academic partners like the Texas Tech University System is just one of the many ways the FBI seeks to mitigate these threats and advance cybersecurity and the security of critical infrastructure."

According to the TTU System, the CRADA marks a significant milestone in the shared commitment of the FBI and the TTU System to advance innovation, enhance national security, and foster meaningful collaboration between federal agencies and leading higher education institutions.

Texas Tech in Lubbock will be playing a key role in the effort.

"Texas Tech University is proud to stand alongside the FBI and Angelo State University in this important partnership to strengthen the security of our nation's critical infrastructure," said TTU President Lawrence Schovanec. "This collaboration builds on our university's research strengths and our commitment to preparing the next generation of leaders who will protect and serve our country."

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Under the agreement, the FBI will utilize university-led research and development through TTU's  Critical Infrastructure Security Institute , which is addressing vulnerabilities in the nation's most vital systems, including the electric grid, water utilities, communication systems, military assets and other infrastructure critical to the economy.

The other university instrumental in this agreement is Angelo State University in San Angelo.

"I echo President Schovanec's comments about this being a unique opportunity for Angelo State University to join forces with the FBI and Texas Tech University through this CRADA," said ASU President Ronnie Hawkins. "This partnership will not only enhance research capabilities but also open new avenues for innovation, knowledge exchange, and growth in the areas of cybersecurity and security studies."

According to the TTU System, the agreement also allows the FBI to leverage ASU's partnerships with Goodfellow Air Force Base, its National Security Agency-certified cybersecurity programs, and its Regional Security Operations Center, which offers real-time cybersecurity defense for West Texas communities and hands-on training for students pursuing careers in cybersecurity and defense.

Through this CRADA, the FBI and TTU System institutions will collaborate on advanced research, expand training opportunities and enhance the resilience of infrastructure sectors such as energy, water, telecommunications, health care and defense.

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"Among institutions of higher education, the Texas Tech University System has been a longtime leader in research and security studies, and we are excited to join the FBI in this ambitious endeavor," said TTU Chancellor Tedd Mitchell. "This partnership is a testament to the commitment of our universities to address the world's most pressing needs and create innovative, collaborative and sustainable solutions."

Also at the signing ceremony in Lubbock was U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, a Republican who represents the Lubbock and West Texas area and is chairman of the House Budget Committee.

Arrington said cyber attacks on America's critical infrastructure present one of the most significant risks to the nation's economic stability, public safety, and national security, and is grateful that the FBI is asking Texas Tech to lend its expertise through the partnership.

"No one translates discovery and innovation for solving real-world problems like the faculty at Texas Tech," Arrington said. "Unlike many universities today, Texas Tech's laboratory isn't in the Ivory Tower, it's in the marketplace where we work, the communities where we live, and with our government partners, working to address our national priorities."

Mateo Rosiles is the Government & Public Policy reporter for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Got a news tip for him? Email him:  mrosiles@lubbockonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: FBI, TTU System sign agreement to strengthen America's national security