Cyber Florida’s Security Operations Center Apprentice Program (SOCAP) provides paid internships that enable students to add valuable hands-on experience to their resumes. Students learn state-of-the-art real-time cybersecurity monitoring and threat detection tools while supporting public-sector organizations with supplemental cybersecurity services.

Building Florida’s Next Generation of Cyber Defenders

The Cyber Florida Security Operations Center Apprentice Program (SOCAP) is a paid internship program for University of South Florida students dedicated to making Florida a national leader in cybersecurity talent development. By bridging the gap between education and industry, SOCAP equips students with hands-on experience while providing essential cybersecurity support to public-sector organizations.

SOCAP builds a skilled workforce ready to defend against cyber threats through training, partnerships, and real-world security operations.

As SOCAP expands, we aim to:

  • Grow within Florida’s university and college systems
  • Enhance cybersecurity services for public-sector organizations
  • Strengthen the cyber security workforce by developing capable professionals

Real-World Cybersecurity Experience

SOCAP transforms students—many with little to no cybersecurity experience—into skilled cyber analysts. We focus on:

  • Developing “conversational cybersecurity” skills to engage in technical discussions
  • Identifying and enhancing students’ strengths in technical and soft skills
  • Providing mentorship and leadership opportunities to build well-rounded professionals

SOCAP students engage in:

  • Threat hunting – Detecting and analyzing cyber threats using advanced security tools
  • Incident response – Assisting public-sector partners with security investigations
  • Threat intelligence – Researching adversary tactics to strengthen defenses
  • Security automation – Developing scripts and tools to optimize SOC processes
  • Cyber training – Participating in tabletop exercises and simulated cyber incidents

Services Offered and Student Learning Objectives

SOCAP students gain hands-on experience in:

  • Digital forensics (enterprise and mobile)
  • Incident response and triage assistance
  • Malware analysis
  • Log management and threat analysis
  • Cybersecurity assessments and consulting
  • Vulnerability assessment & penetration testing

Information for Students

The program currently provides 10 internships at any given time to students at the University of South Florida. However, Cyber Florida is exploring expanding by adding more seats at USF and branching out to other State University System of Florida universities. Students interested in applying to the program should visit the Cyber Florida Careers page to see if there are any openings. Applicants go through a competitive interview process.

Information for Organizations

SOCAP services are available to Florida-based law enforcement and public-sector entities, such as municipalities and counties and their departments. If you are interested in participating in these services, please submit the form below and a SOCAP representative will connect with you to discuss your needs.

Note: These services are made available by the Florida Center for Cybersecurity to public-sector organizations for general informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of obtaining competent legal advice from a licensed attorney and/or cybersecurity professional with the sufficient expertise necessary to address your organization’s specific needs. Use of these services does not create any special or fiduciary relationship between you/your organization and the Florida Center for Cybersecurity or the University of South Florida.