Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act Aims to Bolster Critical Infrastructure Workforce

A bipartisan bill introduced in the House of Representatives on March 11, 2026, seeks to strengthen cybersecurity education within career and technical education (CTE) programs, with a specific focus on preparing the workforce that operates the nation’s critical infrastructure. The Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act, sponsored by Representatives Glenn Thompson (R-PA) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), aims to address the growing cybersecurity skills gap and enhance the nation’s defense against cyber threats.

Addressing the Critical Infrastructure Skills Gap

The legislation proposes a pilot program that will award competitive grants to CTE programs that integrate cybersecurity training into their curriculum. According to the bill’s text, the primary goal is to “improve the competencies of the critical infrastructure workforce, particularly operators of critical infrastructure technologies, by developing postsecondary career and technical education programs that integrate cybersecurity education.” H.R.6124

Critical infrastructure sectors, including telecommunications, agriculture, energy, and healthcare, are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. The bill’s sponsors emphasize that a workforce equipped with basic cybersecurity skills is essential for public safety. Currently, many training programs in these vital sectors prioritize physical safety over cybersecurity, creating a significant vulnerability.

Grant Details and Program Requirements

Individual grants awarded under the program would be capped at $500,000 per year. Programs receiving funding will be required to align their cybersecurity education with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Workforce Framework. Thompson, Bonamici Introduce Bill

The Department of Education will collaborate with the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Labor when awarding grants, ensuring that funding is directed to areas with the greatest workforce needs across critical infrastructure sectors. This coordinated approach aims to maximize the impact of the program and address the most pressing cybersecurity challenges.

Bipartisan Support and Previous Attempts

“I am proud to lead this legislation in an effort to ensure our nation’s data is protected at all costs,” said Representative Thompson. “It’s important that students have access to the necessary education and training to respond to breaches and retain our data systems secure.” Thompson, Bonamici Introduce Bill

Representative Bonamici added, “Cybersecurity professionals are an integral part of America’s safety and economic prosperity. This bipartisan legislation will help secure a strong future for our country’s critical infrastructure by providing students with increased access to cybersecurity education programs.” Thompson, Bonamici Introduce Bill

Representative Thompson previously introduced similar legislation in 2023, but it did not advance out of the House Education and Workforce Committee.

Looking Ahead

The Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act represents a renewed effort to address the critical demand for a skilled cybersecurity workforce. By integrating cybersecurity education into CTE programs, the bill aims to proactively defend the nation’s critical infrastructure against evolving cyber threats and ensure a more secure digital future.