Global Minnesota recently hosted a delegation of cybersecurity professionals from twelve countries that visited Minnesota as part of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP. Minnesota was the third stop on their national tour, offering a deep dive into public-private partnerships, critical infrastructure security, and talent development in the context of cybersecurity. The visitors were warmly welcomed at the Royal Sonesta Minneapolis and enjoyed exploring downtown during their free time, including a dinner at a nearby Brazilian steakhouse that was a highlight for several participants.
A significant portion of the delegation’s agenda focused on cybersecurity and infrastructure protection. A key feature of their visit was a session at Xcel Energy’s Prairie Island Nuclear Training Center. The group toured the facility and engaged in an in-depth discussion about topics such as grid resiliency, cyber asset management, risk mitigation across nuclear and non-nuclear operations, and cross-sector collaboration. The visitors asked insightful questions, impressing the Xcel team with their curiosity and expertise. Later, they toured the Mayo Clinic and discussed the hospital’s proactive cybersecurity system.
The delegation also explored Minnesota’s broader cybersecurity ecosystem at MN STEM Ecosystem. At Minnesota IT Services, they learned about the state’s cybersecurity efforts and partnerships with the FBI, while at Metro State University in Saint Paul, they visited the new Cyber Security training facility. There, Professor Faisal Kaleem and his panel presented a variety of programs and projects, and visitors participated in hands-on learning experiences such as lock picking, which the group found highly engaging. The visit to FR Secure offered further insights into threat hunting, risk assessment, and cybersecurity workforce development, delivered in an engaging and welcoming atmosphere.
In addition to professional meetings, the delegation experienced local culture with a visit to a rodeo in Buffalo, Minnesota (which included the purchase of more than one cowboy hat), a Mississippi River cruise, jazz at the Dakota Jazz Club, and a spontaneous bike ride around Lakes Harriet and Bde Maka Ska after paddle boat rentals were canceled due to high winds. Despite a serious heat wave, participants embraced Minnesota’s hospitality and vibrant local experiences, concluding their visit with gratitude for a program that successfully blended professional development and cultural exploration.
This powerful combination of world class expertise and the breadth of amazing cultural opportunities makes Minnesota an outstanding destination for international professional exchange. Global Minnesota is proud to showcase our state’s people, culture and resources.
Visits like these could be halted if the currently proposed FY26 federal budget is passed. Act now to restore funding to current levels.