The Texas Tech University System (TTU System) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) aimed at strengthening national security, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure protection. The signing took place on August 18 at the TTU System Building in Lubbock, with officials from both organizations as well as representatives from Texas Tech University (TTU), Angelo State University (ASU), and U.S. Congressman Jodey Arrington present.
This agreement is intended to advance collaboration between federal agencies and higher education institutions. Under the CRADA, the FBI will make use of research conducted by TTU’s Critical Infrastructure Security Institute (CISI). The institute focuses on addressing vulnerabilities in key systems such as the electric grid, water utilities, communication networks, military assets, and other sectors essential to the economy.
Additionally, ASU’s established programs in national security education will support this partnership. ASU works closely with Goodfellow Air Force Base and has National Security Agency-certified cybersecurity programs. Its Regional Security Operations Center provides real-time cybersecurity defense for West Texas communities while also giving students practical training for careers in cybersecurity and defense.
The partnership will allow for joint research efforts, expanded training opportunities, and increased resilience across various infrastructure sectors including energy, water, telecommunications, health care, and defense.
B. Chad Yarbrough, Operations Director of the FBI’s Criminal and Cyber Branch said: “The FBI’s mission of protecting the American people includes safeguarding vital assets like U.S. critical infrastructure from all adversaries both foreign and domestic. Working with academic partners like the Texas Tech University System is just one of the many ways the FBI seeks to mitigate these threats and advance cybersecurity and the security of critical infrastructure. The FBI appreciates the forward leaning posture of the TTU System and looks forward to continued partnership to better protect U.S. national security.”
Tedd L. Mitchell, M.D., Chancellor of the TTU System stated: “Among institutions of higher education, the Texas Tech University System has been a longtime leader in research and security studies, and we are excited to join the FBI in this ambitious endeavor. This partnership is a testament to the commitment of our universities to address the world’s most pressing needs and create innovative, collaborative and sustainable solutions. We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to all we will accomplish together.”
Lawrence Schovanec, Ph.D., President of TTU commented: “Texas Tech University is proud to stand alongside the FBI and Angelo State University in this important partnership to strengthen the security of our nation’s critical infrastructure. This collaboration builds on our university’s research strengths and our commitment to preparing the next generation of leaders who will protect and serve our country.”
Ronnie Hawkins, President of ASU added: “I echo President Schovanec’s comments about this being a unique opportunity for Angelo State University to join forces with the FBI and Texas Tech University through this CRADA. This partnership will not only enhance research capabilities but also open new avenues for innovation, knowledge exchange, and growth in the areas of cybersecurity and security studies. This agreement builds on ASU’s vision and mission, allowing our graduates to be workforce-ready and competitive anywhere in the global marketplace and community.”
Jodey Arrington, U.S Representative for Texas’ 19th Congressional District said: “Cyber attacks on our critical infrastructure present one of the most significant risks to our economic stability, public safety, and national security, and I’m very proud Texas Tech is lending its expertise in partnership with the FBI to confront this threat. No one translates discovery and innovation for solving real-world problems like the faculty at Texas Tech. Unlike many universities today, Texas Tech’s laboratory isn’t in the Ivory Tower—it’s in the marketplace where we work; the communities where we live; and with our government partners working to address our national priorities.”
The TTU System was established in 1996 as a public university system that now includes five universities—Texas Tech University; Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center; Angelo State University; Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso; and Midwestern State University—and operates out of Lubbock with more than $3 billion enterprise value focused on higher education advancement across multiple disciplines including undergraduate medical law nursing pharmacy dental veterinary education among others.
