Bridging Thought Leadership and Real-World Action

Commissioned to tackle the critical gaps identified in our community research, CyberBay Working Groups are the engines driving cybersecurity practice forward.

The CyberBay Working Groups: From Insight to Action

While the annual CyberBay conference serves as our summit, the Working Groups are our continuous engine for progress. Commissioned by Bellini Capital and our institutional partners, these groups were formed to turn the data-driven insights of the CyberBay 2025 Survey into tangible industry solutions

CORE OBJECTIVES

Our Working Groups operate with a clear mandate to fortify Florida’s digital borders through three strategic lenses:

Tackle Gaps

We address select challenges and infrastructure gaps prioritized by the CyberBay 2025 Survey.

Create a Bridge

We move beyond theory by creating a direct link between high-level thought leadership and real-world action.

Maintain Momentum

These groups provide the infrastructure for our community to stay engaged year-round, independent of the annual CyberBay conference.

Focus Areas & Leadership

Each group is led by distinguished subject matter experts focused on three critical pillars of the cybersecurity ecosystem:

Group 1: Undergraduate Academic Curriculum

Lead: Dr. Sriram Chellappan

Mission: To collaboratively refine undergraduate education by integrating foundations, algorithms, and industry engagement to ensure graduates are workforce-ready

Group 2: Solutions Innovation

Lead: Dr. Manish Agrawal

Mission: To nurture Tampa entrepreneurs in creating accessible, affordable cybersecurity solutions built for quick time to value.

Group 3: Workforce Development

Lead: Dr. Michelle Danta Rocha

Mission: To convene employers, educators, and government partners to examine workforce challenges and advance practical strategies for the regional talent pipeline.

THE ROAD to march 2026

Between now and the upcoming March 2026 CyberBay Summit, these groups are finalizing their core deliverables. Attendees can expect to see the culmination of these efforts, including:

  • Undergraduate Curriculum: Refined learning framework with optimal industry integration.

  • Solutions Innovation: Launch of the Innovation Challenge Competition for local entrepreneurs.

  • Workforce Development: Practical strategies for the regional talent pipeline.