Idaho’s statewide cybersecurity posture is set to advance significantly as the Idaho Cyber Resilience Operation Center (ICROC), headquartered in Boise, begins its transition to fully manned, 24/7 operations.
Phase 1 of the transition is scheduled to begin by October 2026, with full implementation expected by June 2027. As part of the GemNet Project, ICROC is also building out regional presence in Moscow and Twin Falls to strengthen statewide cyber readiness.
ICROC is currently staffed with four full-time state employees and supported by an average of five part-time apprentices. This workforce provides continuous monitoring, threat analysis, and incident support across public-sector networks. The transition to 24/7 operations will build on this foundation by expanding staffing pipelines, automating key processes, and modernizing operational workflows.
A central component of this effort is the Operation Cyber Idaho apprenticeship program, which continues to train new cybersecurity professionals to meet Idaho’s growing needs. Apprentices receive hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world experience, enabling them to integrate directly into ICROC’s monitoring and response activities.
Phase 1 will focus on achieving continuous manned coverage seven days a week. As additional apprentices graduate and new hires are onboarded, ICROC will scale toward full 24/7 staffing leading up to June 2027. This phased approach ensures capability develops responsibly while maintaining high-quality monitoring and response statewide.
Once fully implemented, ICROC’s continuous operations are expected to significantly enhance Idaho’s resilience against emerging cyber threats, improve coordinated response across agencies, and position Idaho as a regional leader in public-sector cyber defense.
