What We Covered

The HB 44 (formerly HB 42) Collaborative Forum was a focused afternoon event designed to help Utah's education sector navigate the new cybersecurity requirements. IT leaders, state officials, and cybersecurity professionals connected over lunch for practical discussions on implementation.

Forum Highlights

  • Three Expert Speakers covering the legislative landscape, implementation strategies, and practical guidance for Utah LEAs
  • Networking Lunch connecting IT leaders across districts facing similar cybersecurity challenges
  • Resource Materials including implementation checklists, templates, and reference guides
  • Peer Networking to connect with fellow professionals and build relationships across Utah's cybersecurity community

Who Attended

  • School district IT directors and CISOs
  • Charter school technology administrators
  • USBE and state agency IT staff
  • Cybersecurity vendors serving K-12
  • Policy and compliance professionals

Legislative Update

Utah's school cybersecurity requirements (originally HB 42) were merged into HB 44 and passed during the 2026 session. This forum covered what LEAs need to know for compliance.

Our Speakers

We heard from leaders shaping Utah's cybersecurity landscape across legislation, education, and implementation.

Rep. Ryan Wilcox

Rep. Ryan Wilcox

Utah State Representative

Representative Wilcox brings firsthand perspective on the legislative intent behind HB 44 and what Utah lawmakers envision for school cybersecurity compliance across the state.

Niel Nickolaisen

Niel Nickolaisen

Former CISO, Utah State University & Former CIO, Western Governors University

With executive cybersecurity and IT leadership experience across two of Utah's major universities, Niel offers deep insight into practical implementation strategies for education institutions navigating cybersecurity requirements.

Spencer Jenkins

Spencer Jenkins

Utah Education Network (UEN)

A representative from the Utah Education Network shared resources, tools, and support available to Utah's K-12 institutions as they work toward cybersecurity compliance.

Forum Agenda

An afternoon of expert sessions, networking, and practical discussion on HB 44 compliance.

11:30 AM

Registration & Networking Lunch

Check-in, connect with fellow attendees, and enjoy lunch

12:30 PM

Welcome & Opening Remarks

Introduction to UCA and the forum's objectives

12:45 PM

Rep. Ryan Wilcox: The Legislative Landscape

Understanding HB 44 and what it means for Utah LEAs

1:15 PM

Niel Nickolaisen: Implementation Strategies

Practical approaches to framework adoption and phased compliance

1:45 PM

Spencer Jenkins (UEN): Resources and Next Steps

Tools, templates, and support available to Utah's education institutions

2:30 PM

Networking & Wrap-Up

Open discussion, peer connections, and closing remarks

Stay Connected with UCA

The Forum has concluded, but our work continues. Join the Utah Cyber Alliance to hear about upcoming forums, workshops, and networking events, and to access HB 44 implementation resources for your organization.

Ready to Strengthen Utah's Cyber Defenses?

Join the Utah Cyber Alliance and become part of a collaborative community dedicated to protecting Utah's digital infrastructure.