MSU, Keesler, state leaders break ground on Mississippi Cyber and Technology Center
Contact: James Carskadon
BILOXI, Miss.—Leaders from Mississippi State University, the U.S. Air Force, City of Biloxi, and Gov. Tate Reeves broke ground on the future home of the Mississippi Cyber and Technology Center on Tuesday [Aug. 19], marking a major milestone in the advancement of cybersecurity and innovation in the state.
The Mississippi Cyber and Technology Center, a cutting-edge, 100,000-square-foot facility under construction adjacent to Keesler Air Force Base, will serve as the headquarters for the MSU-led Mississippi Cyber Initiative (MCI). The project builds upon a shared vision to enhance cybersecurity capabilities and collaboration across state, federal, academic and industry sectors.
“Today we are setting the stage for a stronger future in Mississippi,” Gov. Reeves said. “But let me be clear. Mississippi’s future is already here. Our state is stronger than ever, but with the new Mississippi Cyber and Technology Center, I know our future will be even bigger, even brighter and even better for all.”
“This is a proud day for Mississippi State University, a proud day for our partners at Keesler, and a proud day for every Mississippian who wants to see our state thrive in the innovation economy of the 21st century,” said MSU President Mark E. Keenum. “Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue. It is a national security priority, a workforce imperative, and a driver of economic growth. And Mississippi is leading the way.”
U.S. Air Force and Keesler leadership underscored the importance of the cyber domain in current and future defense efforts.
“This building represents our commitment to staying ahead in the cyber domain in an era when it is of critical importance to everything we do,” said Col. Christopher Robinson, commander of the 81st Training Wing at Keesler. “We’re excited for our future together and what we will accomplish. We will pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future.”
Designed by Dale Partners Architects with AnderCorp serving as the lead contractor for construction, the facility will include MCI’s central offices, an event center, Air Force training spaces, and secure offices for private industry partners. MSU Research and Technology Corp. will manage the building, which is expected to open in 2027. Funding for the project was made possible by the Mississippi State Legislature, along with a generous private donation from Mississippi Power and Southern Company to support the initiative.
MCI was launched in 2021 as an outgrowth of MSU projects to support Keesler’s robust cyber training mission. Since launch, MCI has grown its unique partnerships—establishing a digital forensics lab supporting more than 50 law enforcement partners, hosting cyber exercises through its internal cyber ecosystem, offering K–12 outreach to develop future cybersecurity leaders, and convening quarterly summits for stakeholders across academia, government, industry and defense. MCI also has partnered with federal agencies to host cyber tabletop exercises focusing on key sectors such as healthcare and maritime operations.
During Tuesday’s ceremony, Keenum emphasized the spirit of collaboration that has made MCI a success.
“I want to thank all of our partners in the Mississippi Cyber Initiative—military, academic, industry, law enforcement, and state and federal agencies,” Keenum said. “You’ve built something unique: a statewide, mission-driven collaboration that’s producing results and positioning Mississippi for long-term success.”
For more on the Mississippi Cyber Initiative, visit www.mscyberinitiative.org.
Mississippi State University is taking care of what matters. Learn more at www.msstate.edu.