TTU System Partners with FBI on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection

LUBBOCK, TX — The Texas Tech University System has entered into a landmark partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation aimed at advancing U.S. national security, cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection.

The Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) was signed Monday at the TTU System Building in Lubbock. The ceremony included FBI Operations Director of the Criminal and Cyber Branch B. Chad Yarbrough, U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, Texas Tech University President Lawrence Schovanec, Angelo State University President Ronnie Hawkins, and TTU System Vice Chancellor of Innovation & Collaboration Stephen Bayne.

The agreement allows the FBI to leverage research and innovation from TTU’s Critical Infrastructure Security Institute, which addresses vulnerabilities in the nation’s energy grid, water utilities, communications networks, military systems, and other critical sectors. It also strengthens ties with Angelo State University, which partners with Goodfellow Air Force Base, operates NSA-certified cybersecurity programs, and runs a Regional Security Operations Center that provides real-time cyber defense for West Texas communities while training students for national security careers.

Through the partnership, FBI officials and Texas Tech System researchers will collaborate on advanced research, expand training opportunities, and develop strategies to strengthen resilience across industries, including energy, telecommunications, health care, and defense.

“The FBI's mission of protecting the American people includes safeguarding vital assets like U.S. critical infrastructure from all adversaries, both foreign and domestic," Yarbrough said. 

"Working with academic partners like the Texas Tech University System is just one of the many ways the FBI seeks to mitigate these threats and advance cybersecurity and the security of critical infrastructure. The FBI appreciates the forward-leaning posture of the TTU System and looks forward to continued partnership to better protect U.S. national security.”

TTU System Chancellor Tedd L. Mitchell said the agreement reflects the university’s longstanding role in research and security. “This partnership is a testament to the commitment of our universities to address the world’s most pressing needs and create innovative, collaborative, and sustainable solutions,” Mitchell said.

Schovanec called the collaboration an opportunity to expand Texas Tech’s research strengths and prepare future leaders, while Hawkins emphasized its impact on Angelo State’s cybersecurity programs. Arrington praised the agreement as a way for West Texas institutions to play a direct role in defending against one of the nation’s most significant threats.

“I echo President Schovanec’s comments about this being a unique opportunity for Angelo State University to join forces with the FBI and Texas Tech University through this CRADA," Angelo State University President Ronnie Hawkins said.

"This partnership will not only enhance research capabilities but also open new avenues for innovation, knowledge exchange, and growth in the areas of cybersecurity and security studies. This agreement builds on ASU’s vision and mission, allowing our graduates to be workforce-ready and competitive anywhere in the global marketplace and community."

The Texas Tech University System, established in 1996, includes five universities with about 64,000 students and 400,000 alumni. Headquartered in Lubbock, the system contributes an estimated $19.2 billion in statewide economic impact and is one of only nine in the nation to offer undergraduate, medical, law, nursing, pharmacy, dental and veterinary education.