Boeing has opened a new Cyber Engagement Center (CEC) in Annapolis Junction. The 32,000-square-foot facility will provide a collaborative environment where security experts work together to address current and evolving cybersecurity challenges.

"The risks to industry and government cybersecurity grow every second of every day," said John Hinshaw, vice president and general manager, Boeing Information Solutions. "We've established this center to work collaboratively with our customers to help defend their critical infrastructure - as well as our own."

The CEC offers secure meeting areas as well as dynamic data analysis, information sharing, traffic intelligence, analytics and other capabilities for commercial and defense customers. It is staffed by cybersecurity experts and research-and-development (R and D) teams from across the Boeing enterprise.

Boeing has extensive experience in cybersecurity, acquired through developing, deploying and defending complex systems for customers as well as protecting its own global network. The company has made substantial investments in cybersecurity R and D and acquisitions over the past several years, while connecting capabilities from across the organization to bring the best of Boeing to customers.

Recent acquisitions eXMeritus and Kestrel have brought industry-leading data analysis and secure information-sharing capabilities. Narus and SMSi added real-time traffic intelligence solutions and analytics capabilities to help protect and maintain the integrity of distributed IP networks for government carriers and critical infrastructure employees.

"Our recent acquisitions have enhanced our ability to deliver the full-spectrum, defense-in-depth solutions our customers need," said Hinshaw.

Boeing also supports cyber education programs at high schools and universities, including the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competitions and the U.S. Air Force's CyberPatriot program. Company mentoring and sponsorship help to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math.