Rep. Thomas Announces Approval of $662K for Ohio Cyber Range Equipment Refresh

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) today announced that the Ohio Controlling Board has approved the release of $ $662,661  for the purchase of new equipment to refresh and expand the Ohio Cyber Range infrastructure in Cincinnati, Hamilton County. The funds will be used to acquire the necessary hardware from CDW-G, based in Vernon Hills, Illinois.

“This investment is a critical step toward strengthening Ohio’s cybersecurity capabilities. By updating the infrastructure of the Ohio Cyber Range, we are not only enhancing our cybersecurity training environment but also preparing Ohio’s workforce to meet the growing challenges of digital security in today’s world,” said Rep. Thomas.

The University of Cincinnati has been allocated a total of $7,162,660 through House Bill 2 of the 135th General Assembly for the Ohio Cyber Range project. The Ohio Cyber Range is a statewide initiative designed to create a comprehensive cybersecurity testing and training environment, foster a skilled cybersecurity workforce, and raise public awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. It also serves as a cyber information clearinghouse. The project is overseen by an Executive Committee that includes representatives from the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE), the Ohio Adjutant General, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the Department of Administrative Services, and the Office of the Governor.

The funds approved today will be used to refresh the existing Ohio Cyber Range infrastructure and to expand its functionality. The equipment purchased will support digital forensic training across Ohio through the Regional Programming Centers, which are integral to the project’s mission to develop a cybersecurity-skilled workforce statewide.