Trend Micro, a leader in security software, has donated $10,000 to the Mission College Center for Innovation and Technology.

The grant will provide resources and expertise to advise and help enhance cybersecurity course curriculum, said a statement.

As the security and privacy industry continues to expand and evolve, Trend Micro is committed to encouraging students to enter the cybersecurity field while empowering them with the core competency to do so, it said.

Raimund Genes, chief technology officer, said: “As part of our responsibility to help keep the world safe for exchanging digital information, Trend Micro is helping MC²IT rebuild existing curriculums while recommending relevant courses.

“The addition of these types of courses will help students to become future experts and next generation leaders in cyber security.”

As a member of the MC²IT advisory board, Trend Micro and other security and privacy leaders recognise the challenges presented by a lack of skilled cybersecurity professionals.

With the advent of new technology, experts and professionals will need training on how to investigate and manage corresponding threats.

Daniel Peck, president, Mission College, said: “With the expertise and knowledge that Trend Micro and the security advisory board bring to MC²IT, we can bridge the gap between technology and education.

“We have the right people collaborating, bringing their passion to the security profession to motivate students and others interested in learning more about technology careers.”

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, MC²IT is a non-profit organisation within the Mission College system that helps provide technology training, education and student internships to meet the industry’s rapidly changing workforce needs.

In addition to being a member of the MC²IT security advisory board, Trend Micro is also a Chancellor’s Circle sponsor. The donation will be allocated to help foster the organisation’s goal of motivating students, developing curriculums on the latest technologies, and providing internships.

Geoff Grindrod, director, threat intelligence services, said: “The significant increase in global cyber-attacks is generating a strong demand for cybersecurity skillsets.

“We see this partnership with MC²IT as a productive way for Trend Micro to contribute to training future cybersecurity researchers that will ultimately defend businesses, organisations, governments and economies.” - TradeArabia News Service