One of five goals in the DoD Information Assurance (IA) Strategic Plan is to create an IA workforce that is well-equipped to support the changing demands of the network-centric enterprise.¹  Empowering this workforce so that they are able to conduct effective Computer Network Defense (CND) requires a significant investment in education and training. Knowledge acquired through specialized training and education methods enables the network defense community to make effective decisions in planning and executing responses to unauthorized activity against their protected computer networks. However, the current training and education methods available do not provide trainees with immediate opportunities to apply acquired knowledge. The challenges presented in sustaining a pool of qualified network defenders demand innovative training tools that can improve the effectiveness of the current CND workforce and accelerate skills development for initial-entry personnel. This new class of training must include not just instruction, but a means for the learner to construct their knowledge through simulated scenarios that reflect those found in the real-world.

¹ Statement by Robert F. Lentz Director, IA Assistant Secretary of Defense for Networks and Information Integration Before the House Government Reform Committee. http://www.dod.mil/dodgc/olc/docs/test03-07-24Lentz.doc, July 24, 2003.