Thanks to the University of Florida, veterans are learning a new skill — how to hack into computer systems.

The innovative project, led by principal investigator Wanli Xing, associate professor of educational technology, is addressing a critical need in the field of hardware security.

“Hardware security is crucial for protecting our modern semiconductor devices and ensuring the integrity of our technological infrastructure,” said Xing. “Despite its critical importance, training in hardware security has been limited, leading to a severe shortage of trained professionals in the field.”

A need for professionals that have technical skills, pay attention to detail and are able to thrive under pressure left Xing, an affiliate of Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering’s Warren B. Nelms institute, and his team with a clear choice: former members of the armed forces.

“Veterans are the ideal candidates for the hardware security field,” states Xing. “This project addresses the critical shortage of trained professionals in this area while providing veterans with meaningful career opportunities.”

The three-year project, titled “Pivots: VETS-HASTE: Veterans SkillBridge through Industry based Hardware Security Training and Education,” utilizes a hands-on, industry-based training approach that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. VETS-HASTE is funded by $1 million from the National Science Foundation and guarantees veterans gain practical experience and receive quality mentorship.

The training covers a variety of aspects in hardware security. Detecting and mitigating security threats in semiconductor devices, understanding the intricacies of supply chain vulnerabilities, and developing robust security protocols are some of the many topics covered.

“By equipping veterans with practical experience and mentorship in hardware security, we are enhancing their career prospects, enriching the microelectronics design ecosystem,” Xing continued. “And ultimately strengthening our national security infrastructure.”

In addition to technical training, the program also focuses on professional development, helping veterans transition smoothly into civilian careers. Resume-building workshops, interview preparation, and networking opportunities with professionals all provide veterans with exposure to real-world projects and potential job placements upon completion of the program.

In May, 11 U.S. veterans spent a week studying in-demand skills that would help prevent hackers. Veterans will also work on home studies through the fall with access to UF resources. Three-month internships will follow, with businesses eager to hire cybersecurity specialists. 

Co-principal investigator Dr. Sandip Ray expresses his immense excitement about the project.

“It’s not just hardware security. We have to do something for veterans as they transition to civilian life,” states Ray. “We need the workforce, and here are well-disciplined people.”

UF collaborated with Veterans Florida to select from 300 VETS-HASTE applicants. One of the 11 chosen veterans, Andre Yates, was thrilled to have the opportunity.

“When I saw the information on HASTE, I thought, ‘That sounds exactly like what I am trying to find,” said the Army veteran from Fort Lauderdale. “I can use my hands and still be current with technology… I’m kind of hungry when it comes to this right now, so learning is a top priority.”

The veterans caught on quickly during their time on campus in May and worked diligently to keep up with the fast-paced program. Ray stated that it felt as if they were teaching the veterans to think like criminals, learning the cyber-criminal’s tricks in order to ward them off.

“They need to understand how the hardware can be hacked and how to prevent those hackings,” said Ray. “Hacking is not a science. It is kind of an art. The thing with hacking is you will try, you will fail, but you will learn from the failure to do something better.”

VETS-HASTE has received positive feedback and funding for three years, but is still seeking additional funding to grow the program.

Wanli Xing

Wanli Xing

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Photos courtesy of the Warren B. Nelms Institute at the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering.