Metro State University recently welcomed a delegation of 10 cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) professionals from Germany and Sweden, visiting Minnesota through the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The visit was coordinated by Global Minnesota and focused on exploring collaborative strategies to strengthen digital security and workforce development.
The group engaged in a dynamic discussion with faculty around:
- Secure and responsible AI adoption
- Cyber risks at the intersection of AI and critical infrastructure
- Strategies for building a skilled and adaptable cybersecurity and AI workforce
“The delegation showed genuine excitement about Minnesota’s unique role in national security,” said Dr. Faisal Kaleem, director and professor of cyber programs at Metro State University. “They were particularly interested in the Minnesota National Security Ecosystem (MN-NS-ECO) and how it brings together government, academia, and the private sector to tackle today’s most pressing cyber challenges.”
The visit also sparked conversation around the increasing urgency of cyber resilience, especially as AI-enabled cyber threats become more advanced and disruptive.
Metro State shared how its cybersecurity programs and public-private partnerships prepare students to meet these complex challenges. The university’s leadership in cybersecurity education also supports broader international conversations.
“These kinds of exchanges show how the United States, Germany, and Sweden can align efforts to build an innovative and secure digital infrastructure,” added Kaleem.
Metro State thanks Karen Baumgaertner of Global Minnesota for coordinating the visit, and the IVLP delegation members: Isabel Bezzaoui, Katja Gollasch, Dr. Gaby Gurczik, Dr. Eva Sonnenmoser, Janine Schmoldt, Kirsten Streuer, Evelina Anttila, Miriam Ben Hadj Ali, Hanna Linderstål, and Jeanette Nilsson.