Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Members of the Bossier City Lions Club welcomed Charlene Cooper, director of CYBER.ORG, as the featured guest speaker during their meeting Thursday, Feb. 19.
Cooper shared insight into the organization’s mission to expand access to cybersecurity education and prepare students for careers in one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries. CYBER.ORG works to equip K-12 educators with curriculum resources, training and tools designed to introduce students to cybersecurity concepts at an early age.
During her presentation, Cooper highlighted the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals and the importance of building a pipeline of skilled workers. She emphasized that cybersecurity education is no longer limited to higher education institutions, but is increasingly being integrated into middle and high school classrooms.
Club members listened as Cooper discussed partnerships with schools across the country and efforts to ensure students in Louisiana have access to industry-aligned instruction. She noted that early exposure to cybersecurity not only opens doors to high-paying careers but also strengthens national and local digital security.
The presentation sparked questions from Lions about workforce development, local school involvement and ways community leaders can support educational initiatives.
The Bossier City Lions Club regularly hosts guest speakers representing a wide range of community organizations and initiatives. Thursday’s program reflected the club’s ongoing interest in education, workforce readiness and initiatives that benefit the broader community.
As the meeting concluded, members thanked Cooper for her informative presentation and for shedding light on the critical role cybersecurity education plays in shaping the future workforce.