DHS announces the 2016 Cyber Volunteer Initiative

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced last week that it will be accepting applications for the 2016 Secretary’s Honors Program Cyber Volunteer Initiative.

Under the program, more than 50 individually selected volunteers would complete assignments supporting the DHS cyber mission at department field offices in more than 40 locations across the country. The initiative is designated for students currently enrolled in an undergraduate or post graduate studies programs.

Students will have the opportunity to gain experience in cyberthreat analysis, digital forensics network diagnostics and incident response, along with mentoring and professional development events headlined by DHS managers and senior leaders.

The Cyber Student Volunteer Initiative was founded in April 2013. The program was expanded in 2015 to feature more than 50 student assignment across more than 30 states. Students selected will complete assignments for various organizations such as Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the National Protection and Programs Directorate, the Management Directorate/Office of the Chief Information Officer, the Office of Intelligence and Analysis, the Office of Policy/Cyber, Infrastructure and Resilience Policy, the Transportation Security Administration, and the United States Coast Guard.

Individuals interested in the initiative may apply for fellowships within the Secretary’s Honors Program, including Information Technology Fellows, the Emerging Leaders in Cybersecurity Fellowship for Masters and Bachelors programs, Honors Attorneys, Policy Fellows, Management Fellows, and Emergency Management Fellows.