FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Arizona Department of Homeland Security Announces Soft Launch of Central Regional Security Operations Center at Glendale Community College
Glendale, Ariz. — March 23, 2026 — The Arizona Department of Homeland Security (AZDOHS) today announced the soft launch of the Central Regional Security Operations Center (Central RSOC), located at the Gaucho Security Operations Center (GSOC) on the Glendale Community College (GCC) campus.
The Central RSOC serves as a cornerstone of AZDOHS’s 2025–2029 Strategic Plan to build statewide capacity to defend against cyber threats, and to strengthen Arizona’s cyber workforce pipeline as part of their Statewide Cyber Readiness Program.
The GSOC opened in August 2023 and was the first community college in Arizona to operate an intern-run security operations center. The GSOC has supported rural municipalities by providing cybersecurity as a service—monitoring, detecting, and informing partners including the Town of Wickenburg, Wickenburg Unified School District, and the City of Litchfield Park.
“The Central RSOC at Glendale Community College represents a significant step forward for Arizona’s cybersecurity posture and workforce development,” said Ryan Murray, Deputy Director and Chief Information Security Officer, Arizona Department of Homeland Security. “Bringing regional operations, training, and workforce development together on a college campus accelerates the ability to protect local government, K–12 districts, tribal communities, and critical infrastructure while creating real career pathways for students and residents across the state.”
AZDOHS’s Statewide Cyber Readiness Program is now supporting more than 300 local government entities, K–12 school districts, and tribal communities across 15 counties. This support is delivered with assistance from Federal, State, and Local Cybersecurity Grant Funding, improving risk posture and incident response capability across Arizona.
The Central RSOC joins a growing network of RSOCs established under the 2025–2029 Strategic Plan. These centers provide regional coordination, threat monitoring, incident response assistance, and direct cyber readiness support to local partners. A formal grand opening will be announced with additional RSOC activations as they come online later this year.
“Placing the Central RSOC at GCC’s GSOC demonstrates our commitment to integrate education and workforce development,” said Rachelle Hall, Chair for Business, IT & Cyber and Cybersecurity Program Director at GCC. “Our students gain access to hands-on experience and career opportunities while the central Arizona region benefits from cybersecurity monitoring.”
ABOUT GLENDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Founded in 1965, Glendale Community College (GCC) serves over 16,000 students annually, offering 100+ degrees and certificates across diverse fields. Committed to accessible education and community impact, GCC equips learners with the skills to lead in their careers and communities.
