February 6, 2019, FREDERICTON (GNB) – Ellen Ochoa, a former NASA astronaut, will lead keynote discussions at the 2019 CyberSmart summit to be held May 29-30 in Fredericton.
Facilitated by CyberNB, a special operating agency of Opportunities NB, the summit is the only cybersecurity skills and workforce development event of its kind in North America. Now in its third year, the summit’s focus on cybersecurity attracts delegates from around the world and is intended to showcase New Brunswick as an industry leader.
“Cybersecurity represents a tremendous opportunity for economic growth in New Brunswick,” said Economic Development and Small Business Minister Mary Wilson, who is also the minister responsible for Opportunities NB. “From startups to mid-sized homegrown businesses to large multinational companies, New Brunswick’s cybersecurity ecosystem is thriving.”
CyberSmart brings together representatives of industry, academia and government to discuss the global shortage of cybersecurity professionals; to foster talent and innovation; and to develop strategies to mitigate labour shortages in the digital age.
“With 80 per cent of commerce completed online, we are seeing increasing rates and dangers of cybercrime,” said Opportunities NB CEO Stephen Lund. “At the same time, we have an unprecedented need for cybersecurity professionals, both globally and in New Brunswick. The CyberSmart summit is focused on bringing these leaders together to foster collaboration and innovation right here in the province.”
Last year’s summit included the CyberTitan National Championship. This year’s summit will feature a regional ethical hacking competition for middle and high school students. It will also include a Cyber Day for Girls, given that an underlying focus of the summit is encouraging girls and women in the industry.
Media Contact:
Mary-Anne Hurley-Corbyn, communications, Opportunities NB, 506-429-2624.