Regional leaders focus on cybersecurity and rural resilience

October is national cybersecurity awareness month, and the issue has never been more important. In many ways cybersecurity is now inseparable from community resilience. For the schools, hospitals, water and agricultural systems, and small businesses across North Central Washington who are already operating on tight margins, the consequences of a cyberattack can be immediate and severe. Leaders are increasingly recognizing that cybersecurity at the local level is not just a technical issue, but a matter of economic vitality, public safety, and even national security.

Recent research from Boise State University underscored that rural networks often lack the staffing and resources to put even basic protections in place. This is a sentiment that Aspen Digital described as the widening “cyber poverty line” that leaves smaller systems exposed. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA, 2023) has reiterated that cross-sector collaboration and shared performance goals are even more essential to closing this gap.

National conversations about frontline security consistently highlight the importance of everyday practices: strong passwords, timely software updates, staff awareness training, and prioritization of critical assets. For many small and mid-sized businesses which are the backbone of the local economy these practices can be difficult to sustain without dedicated IT staff or departments. Effective strategies focus on embedding security into daily operations in ways that are affordable and sustainable, rather than treating compliance as a one-time exercise.

Collaboration and shared learning can help distribute the cybersecurity burden across organizations. Integrating education sector leaders into these efforts strengthens both research and workforce development, creating opportunities for communities to learn together. Local leaders who engage in regional cybersecurity initiatives as a network of practitioners can foster trust, encourage actionable information-sharing, and support partnerships with education and training providers.

Updating workforce programs to align with industry needs ensures that talent pipelines are prepared while reinforcing safe practices across sectors. The Federation of American Scientists and the White House Office of the National Cyber Director both highlight the value of micro-credentials, stackable certifications, and earn-and-learn programs. In rural communities, where attracting and retaining specialized talent is especially challenging, broadening cybersecurity literacy is equally essential. Teachers, healthcare workers, and small business owners all play a role in embedding safe digital practices into everyday community life.

These challenges and opportunities will take center stage at the NCW Cybersecurity Summit, October 8, 2025, at Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake. The free, full-day event (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM) is open to the public and will bring together national and regional leaders to explore practical strategies for strengthening cybersecurity while expanding digital access. Attendees from all technical backgrounds are welcome. The event is being presented by the North Central Educational Service District, NCW Tech Alliance, and the Apple STEM Network, with sponsorship from Thriving Together NCW and Microsoft.

The Summit will feature a keynote from Kris Rides, CEO of Tiro Security and host of the national Root to CISO podcast. With deep experience in cybersecurity staffing and workforce development, Rides will frame what leaders across the country are reflecting on as threats grow more sophisticated. He will be joined by a panel of executives and innovators who will share how their own journeys prepared them to lead organizations through uncertainty. Discussions will include the implications of artificial intelligence, talent development, and strategies for resilience. Attendees will also hear from Heather Stratford, founder of Drip7 and leader of the Inland Northwest Cyber Security Hub (INCH360) and a closing Keynote address from Dr. Michael Stiber about innovation at the edge with strategic partnerships across academics and industry.

Speakers from the University of Washington, Central Washington University, and Eastern Washington University will join other national experts to lead breakout sessions for both advanced professionals and community members seeking practical, accessible tools.

The day will close with the Tech Trailblazers Reception, recognizing Digital Access Commitment Makers organizations and individuals working to close the digital divide in North Central Washington. Organizers note that as more people gain connectivity, it becomes equally important to ensure they know how to engage safely online and pass on those safe habits to others.

For business leaders, educators, and community members alike, the Cybersecurity Summit offers more than training. It’s a chance to participate in a region-wide effort to build safer, more resilient communities together.

For tickets, please register: https://ncwtech.info/CyberSummit25