Florida Polytechnic University Receives $2.9M for AI and Cybersecurity Lab

Florida Polytechnic University has been awarded $2.9 million in federal funding to create its Public Service Applied Innovation Laboratory (PSAIL), announced in a press release. The facility will focus on hands-on cybersecurity operations and applied artificial intelligence, supported through community project funding championed by Scott Franklin, who represents Florida’s 18th Congressional District.

The PSAIL will expand the university’s existing Security Operations Center by integrating network operations, research and development functions, and a new AI research lab focused on public safety. The lab will collaborate with the Polk County Sheriff's Office to support its AI Investigation Unit.

Located on the second floor of the Gary C. Wendt Engineering Center, the lab will include two secure environments: one for network monitoring and cybersecurity defense, and another for developing and testing applied AI solutions. Students will gain practical experience working on threat identification, code reviews, and product development, replicating real-world cybersecurity and AI operations.