Florida Poly Receives $3M to Launch AI and Cybersecurity Lab

Revolutionizing Tech Education with State-of-the-Art Facilities

In a significant move that underscores Florida Polytechnic University’s growing influence in the tech education landscape, the institution has been awarded nearly $3 million in federal funding to establish a hands-on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity Lab. This transformative investment reflects the university’s commitment to workforce development and innovation in two of the most dynamic and in-demand fields of the 21st century.

The funding was secured as part of a congressional community project spearheaded by U.S. Representative Scott Franklin and supported by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio. With this allocation, Florida Poly is poised to become a leading training ground for future engineers, cybersecurity experts, and AI specialists.

Meeting the Growing Demand for Skilled Tech Professionals

The U.S. labor market is experiencing a surge in demand for professionals skilled in AI and cybersecurity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity jobs are expected to grow by over 30% between 2022 and 2032, while roles related to AI and machine learning continue to expand across multiple industries.

Recognizing these trends, Florida Poly is responding to the call to develop a stronger, more technically advanced workforce. The university’s upcoming lab will serve as a cutting-edge learning environment where students can get hands-on experience with emerging technologies that shape industry standards.

Why AI and Cybersecurity Education Matters

The rise in cyber threats, coupled with the rapid evolution of AI capabilities, has changed how businesses and governments think about innovation and protection. Today, knowledge and training in these fields are not only desirable—they’re essential.

Key applications of AI and cybersecurity include:

• Smart infrastructure and connected devices (IoT)
• Healthcare and medical diagnostics
• Financial services and fraud detection
• National defense and homeland security
• Automated manufacturing and robotics

Florida Poly’s new lab aims to provide students with the opportunity to explore these areas while contributing real-world solutions to some of today’s most pressing technological challenges.

The AI and Cybersecurity Lab: A Closer Look

Scheduled to open in the near future, the new AI and Cybersecurity Lab will be located within Florida Poly’s Lakeland campus. Designed to be both immersive and interdisciplinary, the lab will offer:

• Advanced computing systems and hardware platforms for real-time simulation, data analysis, and AI training algorithms
• Cutting-edge cybersecurity tools to mirror real-world digital environments and assess vulnerabilities
• Virtualization and coding bays for individual and collaborative software development projects
• Interactive learning modules integrating AI, machine learning, and data science topics
• Industry partnerships focused on mentorship, internships, and applied research

The lab is expected to serve not only enrolled students, but also K-12 students and educators in the surrounding community through outreach and mentorship programs.

An Ecosystem of Innovation and Collaboration

Florida Poly’s initiative goes beyond academic instruction—it represents an ecosystem of innovation that includes collaborations with industry leaders, government agencies, and local businesses. By tapping into a network of experts and resources, the university will foster experiential learning opportunities that bridge the gap between the classroom and the job market.

Dr. Randy K. Avent, president of Florida Poly, stressed the importance of this hands-on, project-based model. “We are preparing students for high-tech careers that don’t yet exist,” said Avent. “With this lab, we are strengthening our academic offerings while fulfilling a critical workforce need throughout the state and beyond.”

Strengthening Florida’s Position as a Tech Hub

Florida has been making strides in emerging as a national leader in tech innovation. The state’s business-friendly environment, robust infrastructure, and influx of STEM talent are positioning it as a key player in industries such as aerospace, cybersecurity, fintech, and biotechnology.

The launch of Florida Poly’s AI and Cybersecurity Lab is expected to have a multiplier effect:

• Attracting high-tech companies seeking proximity to skilled graduates and research facilities
• Accelerating startup formation through entrepreneurship programs and access to university resources
• Enhancing Florida’s reputation as a leader in math, science, and engineering education

Doug Glaspey, interim vice president of advancement at Florida Poly, called the investment “a game-changer” for the university and regional workforce development.

Building a Future-Ready Student Body

Students enrolled in fields like computer science, electrical engineering, and data analytics stand to benefit the most from this initiative. However, the impact of the new lab will be felt across multiple disciplines, supporting research and innovation in:

• Computer vision and natural language processing
• Ethical hacking and digital forensics
• Robotics and autonomous systems
• Software development and cloud computing

By integrating real-world applications and hands-on challenges into their curriculum, Florida Poly is equipping students with both the technical proficiency and critical thinking skills that employers value.

Supporting STEM Education from the Ground Up

Beyond higher education, Florida Poly is also involved in community outreach to inspire younger generations to pursue careers in STEM. The AI and Cybersecurity Lab will serve as a venue for STEM camps, coding bootcamps, and educator workshops, sowing the seeds for a more digitally literate and technically capable society.

Conclusion: A Bold Vision for Florida’s Tech Future

Florida Polytechnic University’s receipt of nearly $3 million in federal funding is more than just a financial milestone—it’s a testament to the university’s long-term vision to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and develop job-ready graduates.

As AI and cybersecurity continue to redefine global industries, the new hands-on lab will position Florida at the forefront of this digital revolution. With top-tier faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and a forward-thinking approach to education, Florida Poly is not just preparing students for the future—it’s helping shape that future.

Stay tuned for updates on the lab’s development, student success stories, and new partnership announcements that will continue to elevate Florida Poly as a premier tech university in the nation.