Center for Cyber Initiatives, Awareness and Artificial Intelligence (CCIA-AI)
The Center for Cyber Initiatives, Awareness and Artificial Intelligence (CCIA-AI) at USC Aiken is dedicated to advancing cybersecurity and artificial intelligence education, workforce development, and community outreach. We are shaping the next generation of cybersecurity leaders—through education, research, and regional impact.
Our Mission & Purpose
The Center for Cyber Initiatives, Awareness and Artificial Intelligence (CCIA-AI) at USC Aiken unites the university’s cyber curriculum, initiatives, and partnerships to:
- Advance cybersecurity and artificial intelligence education
- Develop an educated, job-ready cyber workforce
- Drive applied research to address regional and national cyber needs
- Sustain USC Aiken’s NSA Center of Excellence in Cyber Defense (NSA-CAE CD) designation
- Promote cyber awareness and workforce development throughout South Carolina and beyond
Who We Are
Our center is led by:
- Distinguished cyber faculty and a dedicated Cyber Director
- The Department of Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics
Together, we have:
- Earned the prestigious NSA-CAE CD designation for USC Aiken
- Developed a rigorous, NSA-aligned cyber curriculum
- Created comprehensive co-curricular activities for student success
Our Unique Approach
CCIA-AI stands out for:
Infusing AI and machine learning tools across cybersecurity and software engineering courses, preparing students for the future of tech
Programs built on computer science and cybersecurity fundamentals, with a strong focus on practical experience
Students gain hands-on skills through:
- Internships
- Research projects
- Industry capstone experiences
- Participation in our student-led Security Operations Center (SOC)
Recommending and developing cutting-edge cyber curriculum in collaboration with department leadership
Community Engagement & Collaboration
CCIA-AI is deeply committed to building cyber awareness and promoting workforce development across our region and state. Our efforts include:
Hosting educational programs to inform the public about current cybersecurity issues
- Inspiring K-12 students through targeted cyber education and activities
- Coordinating and participating in K-12 events with the Computer Science Department, college, faculty, and the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center
- Establishing and running multiple GenCyber summer camps at USC Aiken
- Participating in NSA CAE-designated K-12 and workforce development programs
- Working with regional industry, K-12 institutions, and regional facilities such as SRNS, SRNL, and the US Army Cyber Center of Excellence (CCofE)
- Collaborating with the SC National Guard Cyber Readiness Center and the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC) as they come online at USCA