Tag: 3BL

By Kim Borges

“Who would’ve ever thought I’d walk out of prison and the Bureau of Justice would give me funding?”

There’s nothing conventional about Shawntelle Fisher – including her ideas.

When Regions gave me that $25,000, they didn’t know that 25 million dollars later, I would still be doing this.
Shawntelle Fisher, founder and CEO of the SoulFisher Ministries

In 2019, Fisher pitched the unique concept of employer workshops for justice-involved people to an independent judging panel to earn a $25,000 grant from Regions Bank. And at this year’s Regions Bank Community Convening in St. Louis, Fisher addressed the audience of 100-plus nonprofit leaders about the exponential growth her nonprofit The SoulFisher Ministries has realized since.

“When Regions gave me that $25,000, they didn’t know that 25 million dollars later, I would still be doing this,” she said. “We were really just getting on our feet; we were still struggling getting people to believe that people with criminal records were worth investing in.”

Not anymore.

The U.S. Bureau of Justice Assistance has been a believer since 2018, investing millions to support SoulFisher’s AGAPE Reentry program and Successful Second Chances program focusing on workforce development, job search assistance and job placement for people transitioning back into the community following incarceration.

Continued funding from BJA has put us on the trajectory to be the national organization we’ve envisioned from the beginning.

“Continued funding from BJA has put us on the trajectory to be the national organization we’ve envisioned from the beginning,” said Fisher. “Just seeing that application was a motivator for something possible – to just do it and don’t look back.”

What else has Fisher been doing?

“Where do I start?” she said. “There are so many exciting things going on. The program Regions funded is still active and thriving. It’s becoming a pillar in the community around workforce development.”

The six-year journey represents more than organizational growth; it’s also involved significant personal reflection.

“Even when I was in prison, I was still a leader, just not the positive influence in my own community like I am today,” said Fisher. “I had everything in me to do what I’m doing today; all I needed was the support and guidance.”

Someone who’s delivered valuable support to Fisher and SoulFisher? Eric Madkins, Regions Community Development manager in Missouri.

These aren’t just services, these are lifelines restoring dignity, reducing recidivism and creating pathways to lasting success.

“Eric is our longest-serving board member,” said Fisher. “He’s been our treasurer; he’s our current vice-chair. Eric is ever present. When you see us, you see Eric. It’s an honor to have Regions supporting him through his service.”

Through his involvement, Madkins has seen the impact Fisher and team are making.

“These aren’t just services, these are lifelines restoring dignity, reducing recidivism and creating pathways to lasting success,” said Madkins. “People deserve the chance to rebuild their lives, and The SoulFisher Ministries makes that possible. I’m beyond proud to support an organization opening so many doors for our community.”

Despite all her success, Fisher will tell you opening those doors doesn’t always come easily.

“I still face challenges because I’ve been incarcerated,” Fisher said. “I’m doing things the world didn’t think I could do; that I didn’t know I could do. I just have to stay focused and remember God called me to do this. If it were easy, anyone could do it. It’s difficult but rewarding work.”

Seeing others thrive motivates Fisher to keep doing more – and to keep thinking unconventionally.

“We’re doing amazing work in St. Louis and lives are being changed because of it,” she said. “We believe restoration is possible and success is real.”

“Whenever I’m having conversations in the community and find out someone is doing something interesting, I say, ‘Do you want to come do that with our kids?’”

Through that one strategic move, Shawntelle Fisher introduced something new to SoulFisher’s six afterschool sites five years ago.

The Black Squares Chess Club, led by nonprofit Dream Builders 4 Equity, is focused on increasing access to chess to youth ages 6 to 18.

For youth served by SoulFisher, it’s become more than a hobby; it’s a passion.

“They’ve become chess wizards at all six sites,” said Fisher. “They absolutely love it, and it’s helps inspire their confidence. When the world tells them they can’t play chess, they know differently.”

Originally published o NRG Energy Insights

From potential power loss to property damage, extreme weather events can often stir up a lot of challenges and cause feelings of concern, stress, and uncertainty. However, despite its seemingly unpredictable nature, our teams work year-round to prepare for all kinds of severe climate – with the ultimate goal of protecting and supporting our customers. In this series, we will provide a comprehensive look at NRG’s extreme weather strategy, kicking things off with an introductory breakdown from Jon deJong, Manager, Load Analytics & Meteorologist.

Jon, what is load forecasting?

In its simplest sense, load forecasting is used to predict how much electricity and natural gas gets used based on different types of weather and customer characteristics. This can be for an entire region, like ERCOT, or for a group of customers, like our residential customers in Houston. We use historical data to help predict what the future may look like.

This is important because what we do supports system reliability and helps ensure that NRG’s supply meets the demands of our customers through typical and extreme weather conditions.

How do we define an extreme weather event?

NRG services customers across the U.S. and Canada, so we understand our customers are exposed to unique weather patterns, transmission systems, and structural differences specific to their respective regions. In other words, what constitutes as an extreme weather event in one location, may not have the same impact in a different location.

During Winter Storm Uri in 2021, the extremely cold temperatures across Texas may not have been seen as significant compared to the winter weather typically seen in colder regions. However, the bitter cold and wintry precipitation that Texas received impacted generation, natural gas, and transmission facilities, resulting in an unprecedented disruption of electric service.

The load forecasting team is constantly monitoring weather patterns and paying close attention to situations that show signs of impacting a large geographical area over a long period of time with difficult conditions. Heat waves or winter storms that affect multiple cities over the course of several days are a good example of this. There are exceptions (like hurricanes, which tend to severely affect a small area over a short window), but, in general, these events place prolonged strain on the grid, making them particularly important to watch.

How does extreme weather impact energy systems?

Each region is structurally prepared for the type of extreme weather they typically face. Plants in northern regions, for example, are built to withstand extremely low temperatures. These guidelines have been set in place by regulators and influenced by past events. While there is still a chance that a weather event can have an unprecedented effect, NRG works hard to ensure our facilities abide by standards that help us deliver reliable power to our customers.

It’s important to note that the impact of severe weather, though, is not limited to NRG and our domain.

When rough weather blows into town, it can also affect pipelines, meters, power lines, and other types of transmission and distribution infrastructure, disrupting the energy system’s ability to deliver power to customers. While suppliers, like NRG, do not have an active role in preparing these areas of the energy system for extreme weather, we coordinate with grid operators to make sure they have information about our facilities so that they get an accurate picture of how the overall grid is holding up.

In short, our load forecasting team is continuously watching weather, monitoring demand patterns, and working with our colleagues at the plants to help them deliver reliable power to the grid. Especially, as extreme weather is becoming an increasingly frequent phenomena and energy demand continues to grow, understanding severe climate events is crucial.

Along with load forecasting, NRG takes proactive efforts to assess risks and develop strategies to mitigate the impacts of weather events. In our next installment of Weathering the Storm, we will explore the innovative approaches our teams are implementing to ensure the reliability of energy supply in the face of an unpredictable climate. Stay tuned!

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance is once again seeking proposals from nonprofits and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) as part of its Access Capital program to invest in emerging developers.

The Access Capital program provides financial contributions to nonprofit organizations that are focused on developing, maintaining or expanding their technical assistance or training to better support developers.  

Recipients will be selected through an application process where nonprofits submit proposals describing how they could use additional capital for technical assistance or a training program with the goal of building capacity for developers. Once proposals are submitted, Impact Finance will select three to five recipients. Organizations with both existing and new programs are encouraged to apply.  

“Capacity-building and technical assistance programs are a vital first step for emerging developers,” said U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance senior vice president Torrence Moore. “The Access Capital program supports organizations that are providing these opportunities for developers, helping them learn, network and gain skills as they grow their businesses and ultimately get ready to take on capital.”

This will be the fifth year of the program. From 2021 to 2024, Impact Finance awarded $1.2 million to 19 organizations. 

The deadline to apply is July 31, 2025, and the next round of financial contributions will be distributed in the fourth quarter of 2025.  

For more information or to obtain a copy of the request for proposals, email BusinessImpactGroup@usbank.com.

Originally published on 3M News Center

From technological advances to globalization and economic uncertainty, the pace of change has never been faster.

3M recently completed an in-depth study to understand what technologies will most influence the future of how we live, work, and interact within our communities.

Six major technology themes rose to the top: AI and computational technology; immersive technology; nanotechnology; energy technology; environmental technology; and electronics technology. These technologies will fundamentally help drive future material and digital science advancements, moving us from what’s here today, to what comes next.

“Out of 80 anonymized proposals, through ranking and rating, 30 prominent technologies were identified and clustered under these six technology themes” explained Ben Watson, R&D strategy leader, Corporate Research Labs, who led the ‘Technologies for the Future’ team effort.

3M’s innovations align with the six major technology themes and are expected to drive future material and digital science advancements, moving us from innovations for today to what’s next. 

“3M’s pursuit of creative ingenuity and our culture of global collaboration allows us to constantly redefine the boundaries of materials science,” says John Banovetz, executive vice president and chief technology officer at 3M. “Our deep expertise enables us to tackle current challenges in mobility, safety, workforce dynamics, and energy, and to envision a future shaped by groundbreaking innovations.”

AI, computational technology and nanotechnology: A new age of innovation is coming to shape the Future of Mobility 

With 1.3 billion vehicles on the road, mobility and how we get around is a constant driver for change and innovation. The steady growth of the EV market has been a key driver for materials innovation across the automotive industry, influencing everything from batteries and interiors.

What the world needs now

3M is addressing challenges in the automotive industry through innovations in thermal management and battery materials, adhesives, and display technologies. For instance, 3M Glass Bubbles make composite materials lighter, 3M battery solutions include thermal management materials that help dissipate heat and insulate components and 3M adhesives enable efficient disassembly of EV battery packs, reducing waste and facilitating recycling. Additionally, 3M optical films improve in-cabin displays and vehicle connectivity, boosting efficiency and safety.

AI will make finding materials, like new nanocomposites, even easier. We expect these new materials to help drive efficiency, reducing overall vehicle costs while improving usability and performance.

Tomorrow’s possibilities 

“AI-enabled material discovery can help to identify high-performance materials with new applications for battery efficiency and longevity, that can address range concerns by improving the overall performance of EV batteries and power,” says Tom Clausen, Global Lab Director, Computer Science at 3M.

Additionally, we can expect to see the development of ultra-high refractive index nanocomposites, that can help to improve display efficiency, while new passive thermal management materials will reduce the weight and cost of active cooling systems for passenger comfort.

Electronics and environmental technology: Connecting safe work habits with future innovations 

Health and safety are essential for businesses, workers and communities to thrive and safety concerns span multiple environments. In manufacturing and industrial settings, worker safety experts are increasingly turning to technology for new solutions to long-standing risks, like hazard detection and prevention on the job.

What the world needs now

3M has a legacy of developing safety solutions, such as the 3M N95 respirator, which became vital during the COVID-19 pandemic. 3M also offers virtual reality modules for safety training and high-performance reflective road materials to enhance visibility and safety.

Tomorrow’s possibilities

“Advances in AI are enabling smarter factory systems that optimize production, boost efficiency, and enhance safety by monitoring conditions and adapting operations in real-time,” says Brian Brooks, Senior Staff Scientist at 3M.

“Factories will increasingly integrate cyberphysical materials — smart materials that detect changes in temperature, pressure, light, or stress and respond automatically.”

With embedded sensors, microchips, or wireless links, these materials will interact digitally with factory systems, helping ensure workplace safety, efficiency, and security.

“Advanced materials will also be developed for use in extreme environments, to enable durable and reliable components in advanced transportation and energy applications, helping to reduce the risk of failures and helping to keep workers in those environments safe,” says Matt Frey, Senior Staff Scientist in 3M’s Corporate Research Materials Lab.

Energy technology: Advancing tomorrow’s energy economy 

As global demand for reliable and affordable energy surges, countries are accelerating investments in power generation, grid modernization and energy efficiency to meet their energy goals. Accelerated demand is driving an interest in new materials and scalable, efficient solutions for challenges including grid stability and reducing energy loss in the built environment.

What the world needs now

3M is at the forefront of developing materials science innovations that enhance energy security and grid resilience. For example, 3M’s advancements in electrical infrastructure, such as 3M ACCR (Aluminum Conductor Composite Reinforced) technology, enable the transmission of more electricity over longer distances without the need for new transmission towers. Additionally, 3M’s hydrogen catalyzer technology plays a crucial role in the production of green hydrogen, a clean energy source.

Tomorrow’s possibilities

“We anticipate the continued and accelerated integration of solar energy technologies directly into building surfaces, transforming structures into power generators and significantly reducing the carbon footprint of urban areas,” says Bill Weber, Director of Business Development, 3M Ventures.

Moreover, Silicon Photonics technology can optimize resource use by enabling efficient data transmission with lower power consumption, supporting edge-based AI deployments, and reducing energy demands in data centers and communication networks.

Immersive technology: Bridging skills gaps with technology

The National Association of Manufacturers reports that the skills gap could result in 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030. This gap is driven by changing workforce attitudes, with 75% from a recent global survey viewing manufacturing jobs positively and 74% recognizing the need for enhanced technology skills, but nearly that same amount 70% in the U.S. are concerned that automation will replace those jobs. To combat the labor shortage and challenge concerns around automation, companies are turning to technology like integrated robotics, immersive technology, and AI.

What the world needs now

As a leading global manufacturer and science company, 3M is committed to advancing economic development by supporting job creation and inspiring the next generation of STEM talent through careers in manufacturing. 3M addresses workforce needs directly through our many partnerships and through initiatives like its Manufacturing and Academic Partnerships (MAP) program and its partnerships with SkillsUSA and WorldSkills.

Tomorrow’s possibilities 

“Immersive technologies such as Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) can generate 3D scenes from regular photos and videos. These technologies could greatly improve how we train employees to operate in a physical environment, like a factory setting,” says Kevin Gotrik, Research Specialist, with 3M’s Corporate Research lab

Special materials that can be read by Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) systems can also help create digital versions of real-world objects, track their movements, and display virtual objects, blending physical and digital workspaces for efficiency and safety.

Moving beyond the expected

Jayshree Seth, 3M’s chief science advocate and corporate scientist, emphasizes that while 3M’s analysis targets future technologies, unforeseen breakthroughs can reshape our perception of possibilities. These “wildcards” might involve advances in quantum computing, the convergence of biological and digital technologies, or surprising material discoveries.

By embracing six major technology themes, 3M is not only advancing current progress but also preparing for future innovations. With a focus on collaboration and creativity, 3M is dedicated to making a positive impact and building a better world for all.

Originally published on May 14, 2025 on LinkedIn

May was Mental Health Awareness Month!

At Sysco, we recognize that supporting mental health is essential to building a strong, inclusive workplace. We’re proud to introduce Food for Thought, our Mental Health Colleague Resource Group, created to champion mental well-being across our organization.

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month—and in alignment with this year’s theme, Turning Awareness into Action—the CRG is hosting a series of internal events and sharing tools to reduce stigma, foster education, and encourage meaningful support.

By investing in mental health, we strengthen our teams, our culture, and our impact.

About Sysco

Sysco is the global leader in selling, marketing and distributing food products to restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments and other customers who prepare meals away from home. Its family of products also includes equipment and supplies for the foodservice and hospitality industries. With more than 76,000 colleagues, the company operates 340 distribution facilities worldwide and serves approximately 730,000 customer locations. For fiscal year 2024 that ended June 29, 2024, the company generated sales of more than $78 billion. Information about our Sustainability program, including Sysco’s 2023 Sustainability Report and 2023 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Report, can be found at www.sysco.com.

 For more information, visit www.sysco.com or connect with Sysco on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SyscoFoods. For important news and information regarding Sysco, visit the Investor Relations section of the company’s Internet home page at investors.sysco.com, which Sysco plans to use as a primary channel for publishing key information to its investors, some of which may contain material and previously non-public information. In addition, investors should continue to review our news releases and filings with the SEC. It is possible that the information we disclose through any of these channels of distribution could be deemed to be material information.

View original content here.

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, The Georgia Chamber hosted a panel, Innovations in Georgia Forestry, that explored the ways companies in Georgia engage with Georgia’s forestry industry, and the impact this has on Georgia’s economy. 

Moderated by Burt Fealing, executive vice president, Southwire Company, LLC, the panelists included John Mulcahy, senior vice president, Georgia-Pacific, Matt Hestad, senior vice president, Georgia Forestry Association, and Katie Childers, director of State and Local Government Affairs, Delta Air Lines. 

John, along with the other panelists, discussed emerging opportunities in Georgia’s forestry industry and how companies such as Georgia-Pacific are encompassing components of the industry into their projects and strategies.

Georgia-Pacific believes businesses exist to help people improve their lives, with quality products and services they need, and they want to provide them responsibly. The company works to be a good steward of resources, understanding the impact of our businesses, and creating innovative ways to mitigate them. 

Watch the panel to learn more. Innovations in Georgia Forestry | Future of Energy & Sustainability 2025 GA Chamber

About Georgia-Pacific 
Based in Atlanta, Georgia-Pacific and its subsidiaries are among the world’s leading manufacturers and marketers of bath tissue, paper towels and napkins, tableware, paper-based packaging, cellulose and building products.  Our familiar consumer brands include Angel Soft®, Brawny®, Dixie®, enMotion®, Quilted Northern®, Sparkle® and Vanity Fair®. Georgia-Pacific has long been a leading supplier of building products to lumber and building materials dealers and large do-it-yourself warehouse retailers. Its Georgia-Pacific Recycling subsidiary is among the world’s largest traders of paper, metal and plastics. The company operates more than 150 facilities and employs approximately 30,000 people directly and creates more than 80,000 jobs indirectly. For more information, visit: gp.com/about-us. For news, visit: news.gp.com. Follow Georgia-Pacific on LinkedIn, Meta, Instagram, X and YouTube.

As we look ahead to the next decade of mobile connectivity, now is a good time to consider how security needs could evolve:

• Advancements in connectivity, compute and AI bring unprecedented opportunities, but they also demand robust security measures to protect our digital future.
• As the world’s leading wireless innovator, our vision is to continue creating a secure, adaptable and trustworthy mobile ecosystem that meets today’s challenges and is prepared for tomorrow’s threats.
• We are working to establish a robust trust framework for 6G on top of the existing secure 5G foundation that would facilitate a secure, resilient and adaptable network infrastructure, capable of withstanding modern cyber threats and ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of communications.

Since the foundation for secure connectivity was established with 3GPP Release 15, 5G security has been continuously enhanced. Each subsequent release strengthened the security of the connectivity we rely on today. With the rise of massive parallel computing, AI tools trained on large datasets and quantum computing, which all make for more capable threat vectors, the importance of securing connectivity, compute and AI has never been stronger. As efforts to shape 6G within the 3GPP ecosystem gather momentum, now is the time to look closer at securing the future of mobile connectivity.

Welcome to the seventh installment of the 6G foundry series, where we explore 6G native security, robust trust frameworks and quantum-safe security to build a secure 6G on top of the existing secure 5G foundation that is resilient against known and imaginable future threats.

6G native security

In this section, we look at ways to fundamentally improve security in the 6G access stratum (AS), which includes the radio access network (RAN) and the user equipment (UE). By addressing key areas such as secure control messages, enhanced mobility security, flexible user plane (UP) security termination points and user identity privacy, we aim to build a resilient 6G foundation.

Secure control messages

Ensuring the confidentiality and authenticity of control messages is key to building a secure foundation for 6G. 5G AS security currently defines security at the packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer to safeguard control plane traffic for the radio resource control (RRC) protocol and UP traffic such as internet protocol (IP). However, there is no security protection for control messages at the lower layers, such as medium access control (MAC) elements (CEs). Manipulation of these elements can degrade or disrupt the link, such as with timing advance, transmission configuration indicator and buffer status report messages. Additionally, side channel information leakage, such as UE mobility patterns, has been shown to be possible (e.g., in the paper “Stealthy Location Identification Attacks Exploiting Carrier Aggregation (SLIC)”). Radio link control (RLC) and PDCP status reports are also currently not protected, where manipulation can potentially lead to packet loss, unnecessary duplication or radio link failure.

To counter these possible threats, 6G AS security could be improved by incorporating MAC layer security alongside the existing PDCP security to ensure comprehensive protection of all control messages and UP traffic.

Enhance security for RAN mobility

Security for RAN mobility is a potential enhancement for 6G native security, focusing on a robust key hierarchy for enhanced forward security¹ during mobility. In the current 5G framework, key changes are facilitated by the Xn interface (i.e., RAN-based mobility necessitate RRC signaling, with the source gNB supplying the key to the target gNB via the Xn interface). Additional RRC signaling for intra-cell handover at the target gNB is therefore required to support forward security. However, this process could delay key separation between gNBs and impacts the preparation of the gNB key (KgNB) at multiple gNBs for features such as subsequent L1/L2 triggered mobility (LTM).

To address these challenges, 6G key change procedures could be enhanced with forward and backward security² by design, with vertical key derivation for a change in gNB during handover. This approach ensures the connection at the target gNB node remains secure even if the keys at the source gNB node are compromised. Additionally, supporting multiple concurrent AS key preparations at different RAN nodes (gNBs) will enhance the overall security and flexibility of the 6G network.

Bring flexibility to user plane security termination points

UP data could be made more secure by allowing different UP termination points tailored to specific application or service needs. In the context of 5G, a UE might connect to multiple centralized unit user plane nodes (CU-UPs) of a gNB, each corresponding to a different protocol data unit (PDU) session. However, this setup introduces potential security threats, such as the lack of key separation when multiple user planes are configured for a single UE, particularly for different PDU sessions or network slices. Moreover, binding the UP security key of a CU-UP to a centralized unit control plane (CU-CP) managed key (i.e., KgNB) can lead to frequent key changes especially for highly mobile UEs, which will incur significant signaling overhead for low-complexity Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

To resolve these issues, we propose designing 6G AS security to support key separation for different UP termination points based on network deployment, UE mobility patterns and service security requirements, while maintaining protocol consistency to the UE and enabling service-specific configurations.

Improve user identity privacy in the RAN

A key aspect of 6G security is keeping user identities private, which includes the privacy of RAN temporary identities (RNTIs). In 5G networks, a cell-RNTI (C-RNTI) is assigned during the random access channel (RACH) procedure and updated during mobility events. However, long-lasting C-RNTIs (e.g., if the device remains connected at the same cell) can expose UEs to passive eavesdropping, revealing side-channel information such as the type of UE or active services through over-the-air traffic analysis. Additionally, targeted attacks may occur if a C-RNTI is linked to a UE’s personal identifiers, like phone numbers or social media accounts.

To mitigate these risks, in addition to the strict reallocation of globally unique temporary identifiers (GUTI) and I-RNTIs for each connection introduced in 5G, we propose to support more frequent C-RNTI reallocations in 6G for connected UEs without necessitating a new RACH procedure. This is for enhancing privacy and reducing the likelihood of tracking and targeted attacks.

Also important to protecting user identity is maintaining the privacy of subscription permanent identifiers (SUPI). In 5G, the subscription concealed identifier (SUCI) calculation relies on elliptic curve integrated encryption scheme (ECIES), which is expected to be replaced by post-quantum cryptography (PQC) in 6G. PQC algorithms, while promising, have large public key and cipher text sizes, resulting in substantial SUCI sizes. For example, a PQC algorithm such as Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism (ML-KEM) would result in 100s of additional bytes of overhead compared to ECIES used in 5G.

As we investigate the adoption of PQC algorithms for generating SUCI, a symmetric key-based approach for 6G that leverages USIM credentials could minimize SUCI size overhead. This method involves sending an encrypted private mobile subscription identity (PMSI) to the UE during the authentication and key agreement (AKA) procedure, with the UE using the PMSI in subsequent attach or registration processes, ensuring robust and efficient privacy protection.

Robust trust frameworks

Establishing a robust trust framework for 6G would facilitate a secure, resilient and adaptable network infrastructure, capable of withstanding modern cyber threats and ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of communications. In this section, we look at some key areas of focus at Qualcomm Technologies for achieving such a framework: isolated UE security contexts at each network function, zero trust architecture (ZTA) based on NIST tenets and robust security setup via message digest.

Isolate UE security contexts at each network function (NF)

5G NAS messages are securely exchanged between the UE and the AMF. However, the current architecture has a single NAS security termination point at the AMF, which presents limitations and potential threats. For instance, there is no generic secure communication channel between the home public land mobile network (HPLMN) and the UE when the UE is roaming, which necessitates the HPLMN relying on the visited public land mobile network (VPLMN) when delivering certain updates to the UE (e.g., UE policies). Additionally, there is no forward security with AMF relocation, meaning the source AMF knows the NAS key at the target AMF and beyond. Furthermore, the establishment of independent and isolated UE security contexts at different network functions such as the session management function (SMF) cannot be supported, resulting in a lack of end-to-end security support with the UE. Such limitations and threats are due to the 5G security anchor function (SEAF) being collocated with the AMF and only being used for initial AMF key derivation.

As with AS security supporting forward security, potential 6G NAS security enhancements include an independent 6G SEAF for supporting forward security in the AMF or, more generally, for network function relocation. Furthermore, a separate security anchor at the HPLMN would support secure communication between the UE and the HPLMN when roaming, providing a generic way for the HPLMN to configure roaming UEs and enhancing home network control. Introducing an independent SEAF can further facilitate end-to-end secure communication between the UE and various network functions.

Implement zero trust architecture

Zero trust architecture (ZTA) is built on the NIST zero trust tenets. In the context of 5G, ZTA work by 3GPP is limited to the Core Network, while O-RAN’s ZTA work focuses on the RAN. A gap analysis has been performed in 3GPP as well as in O-RAN Alliance, introducing some enhancements in the 5G system. For example, security event data and log collection, and exposure to a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system are being defined. Security evaluation and policy enforcement relies on proprietary solutions, which are out of the standard’s scope.

For 6G, developing architecture and features toward enabling ZTA is important, with potential enhancements needed to meet NIST Tenet 5 and 6. This includes evaluating the security states of the 6G system and introducing new functional elements, such as a new network function (NF). A converged RAN-Core network architecture and a common architecture for 3GPP and O-RAN need to be considered for unified security management of the 6G system, keeping in mind that ZTA is an incremental and continuous process.

Ensure robust security setup via message digest

In 5G AS security, common radio configurations and parameters, such as the master information block (MIB) and system information block (SIB), are not protected, potentially susceptible to false base station (FBS) attacks. The use of digitally signed system information has been discussed in the 3GPP as a possible solution. With the adoption of PQC algorithms, such signature will require thousands of bytes of additional overhead (e.g., at least 2420 bytes for module-lattice-based digital signature algorithm (ML-DSA)), and that compares poorly to current maximum SIB1 size being under 400 bytes. Apart from information broadcasts, RACH and RRC setup messages exchanged prior to the security mode command (SMC) are also not protected, leading to potential risks. Manipulation of message contents before the SMC can result in the UE being misconfigured, and adversaries can relay traffic without being detected by the UE or RAN, making the system susceptible to man-in-the-middle attacks.

To enhance 6G AS, we propose including a message digest computed from the messages exchanged in the SMC, similar to how TLS computes a transcript hash as described in RFC 8446 section 4.4.1. Upon detecting an error, the system can determine whether to continue or release the connection, thereby improving the overall security and integrity of the communication process.

Quantum-safe security

As quantum technology progresses, traditional public key algorithms relying on the computational hardness of certain algorithms, such as integer factorization and discrete logarithm problems, face increasing threats. In particular, Shor’s algorithm, which efficiently solves integer factorization and discrete logarithm problems, necessitates the development of PQC algorithms. NIST is currently standardizing these algorithms, ensuring security readiness for the Quantum era. Additionally, quantum properties enable a quadratic speed-up in unstructured database searches, posing risks to symmetric key algorithms. To counter this threat, 256-bit symmetric key algorithms like AES-256, SNOW5G, and ZUC-256 are essential for 3GPP air interface security, along with Authenticated Encryption with Additional Data (AEAD). As we move toward 6G, resilience against quantum attacks gains importance, requiring the adoption of PQC and 256-bit algorithms to safeguard communication security.

Making connectivity synonymous with security and trust

Advancements in connectivity, compute and AI bring unprecedented opportunities, but they also demand robust security measures to protect our digital future. At Qualcomm Technologies, our vision is to create a secure, adaptable and trustworthy mobile ecosystem that meets today’s challenges and is prepared for tomorrow’s threats. By addressing opportunities across the 6G radio access stratum and the RAN protocol stack, we are laying the groundwork for a resilient and secure future.

Join us as we help shape the next decade of mobile connectivity with 6G. Stay tuned for more updates from the 6G Foundry.

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^{Opinions expressed in the content posted here are the personal opinions of the original authors, and do not necessarily reflect those of Qualcomm Incorporated or its subsidiaries (“Qualcomm”). The content is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be an endorsement or representation by Qualcomm or any other party. This site may also provide links or references to non-Qualcomm sites and resources. Qualcomm makes no representations, warranties, or other commitments whatsoever about any non-Qualcomm sites or third-party resources that may be referenced, accessible from, or linked to this site.}

^References:

^{1. Forward security protects the connection at the handover target RAN node against compromises of keys at the source RAN node.
2.  Backward security prevents the target RAN node from accessing the key used at the source RAN node after handover.} 

DAVIDSON, N.C., June 30, 2025 /3BL/ – Trane® – by Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator, has successfully implemented the first Dynamic Closed Loop (DCL) geothermal system in the United States at North Shore School District 112, located in the northern suburbs of Chicago. This groundbreaking project marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable and efficient energy solutions for educational institutions, setting a new benchmark for energy efficiency in K-12 schools.

To watch a video on the project, click here.

Faced with aging infrastructure and driven by a commitment to environmental stewardship, North Shore School District 112 sought innovative solutions that would not only address immediate needs but also serve generations of students to come. With strong community support and a successful public referendum, the district collaborated with Trane to explore the potential of geothermal energy.

“The inspiration for green energy and saving taxpayer dollars was at the heart of our project,” said Dr. Michael Lubelfeld, Superintendent, North Shore School District 112. “Trane’s implementation of the DCL technology aligns perfectly with our strategic agenda and core values of sustaining both education and the environment.”

Unlike traditional geothermal systems, DCL technology harnesses the superior heat transfer properties of flowing water, requiring significantly less physical space and making it ideal for suburban school settings. The DCL system offers a space-saving energy capture field that reduces environmental disruption, aligning with modern sustainability goals.

The innovative approach, combined with strategic use of federal, state, and local incentives, made the DCL system a financially viable option for the school district. North Shore School District 112 realized over $3 million in savings on a $6.67 million HVAC investment – a return of as much as 50%.

“This project is potentially transformative for educational markets nationwide,” said Patrick Heneberry, Trane Services Account Executive. “When you combine the various available incentives with Trane’s experience in sustainable systems and our consultative approach, we’re the ideal choice for innovative educational institutions.”

The DCL system is expected to reduce the district’s carbon footprint by approximately 30% while providing more consistent and comfortable learning environments. With the potential to offer school districts significant annual savings through reduced energy consumption and lower maintenance costs, the DCL system offers a compelling ROI and a clear path to a more sustainable future.

“Being among the first school districts in Illinois to have geothermal and the first in the United States to install the DCL technology is exactly what we want for our schools, students, and community,” said Dr. Monica Schroeder, Deputy Superintendent, North Shore School District 112. “This pioneering project serves as a model for other K-12 schools nationwide seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and lower operating costs. The project is a testament to how innovative technology can be leveraged to meet both educational and environmental objectives.” 

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About Trane

Trane ® – by Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator – creates comfortable, energy efficient indoor environments through a broad portfolio of heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems and controls, services, parts and supply. For more information, please visit www.trane.com or www.tranetechnologies.com.

About North Shore School District 112

North Shore School District 112 serves nearly 4,000 Pre-K through 8th grade students from Chicago’s northern suburbs — Highland Park, Highwood, and Fort Sheridan. The district’s mission is to be a transformative learning organization where curiosity inspires minds, innovation shapes the future, and students, staff, and families engage to create a kind and connected community that is committed to excellence.

© 2025 Trane. All Rights Reserved.​​​​​​​ 
All trademarks referenced in this document are the trademarks of their respective owners.

Trane does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. This material is for informational purposes only and it should not be relied on for tax, legal, or accounting advice. Tax law is subject to continual change. All decisions are your responsibility and you should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors. Trane disclaims any responsibility for actions taken on the material presented.

Originally published by Fred Rogers Productions

PITTSBURGH, June 27, 2025 /3BL/ – Fred Rogers Productions has extended its partnership with the PNC Foundation. Through PNC Grow Up Great^®, the PNC Foundation has awarded a $1.4 million grant to support Alma’s Way, the hit series on PBS KIDS. The grant will also support community events inspired by the series and ongoing Fred Rogers Productions initiatives such as Be My Neighbor Day. PNC Grow Up Great^® is a multi-year, bilingual early childhood education initiative that helps children from birth through age 5 develop a love of learning that lasts a lifetime, which aligns with the Fred Rogers Productions mission and its series’ learning goals. PNC’s support of Fred Rogers Productions’ award-winning programming and events are aimed at helping to meet the needs of children and families where they are, a mission shared by both companies.

“We are so pleased to continue our partnership with the PNC Foundation, a valued supporter of educational and arts programs,” said Paul Siefken, president and CEO, Fred Rogers Productions. “Their sponsorship of our programming and outreach initiatives enables us to continue providing valuable content and hands-on experiences for children and families in their neighborhoods nationwide.”

The grant supports a range of onscreen content and outreach programs with educational and pro-social themes, including 49 Be My Neighbor Day events, the successful, longstanding community-based initiative inspired by Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, plus four Alma’s Way community events, and more.

“Fred Rogers Productions has been a terrific collaborator from the earliest days of PNC Grow Up Great, creating quality programming that encourages young children to discover, learn and grow,” said Sally McCrady, chair and president of the PNC Foundation. “Be My Neighbor Days is one of my favorite initiatives across PNC’s markets, helping families think about how they can be great neighbors and the importance of keeping kindness in mind. We’re excited to see the Alma’s Way Explore Your City events take shape.”

The PNC Foundation will be recognized on broadcast and across digital for its generous contribution to make new Alma’s Way episodes possible.

Alma’s Way focuses on core messages and learning goals to encourage children as they develop problem-solving, resilience, empathy, and other life skills. The series follows 6- year-old Alma Rivera, a proud, confident Puerto Rican girl who lives in the Bronx with her family among a diverse group of close-knit friends and community members. In every episode, Alma models self-awareness, responsible decision-making and empathy, while encouraging kids to develop critical thinking skills and value their own ideas and questions. The series, which premiered in 2021, is created by Sonia Manzano (“Maria” on Sesame Street) and produced by Fred Rogers Productions in association with Pipeline Studios (Elinor Wonders Why). Ellen Doherty and Manzano are executive producers. Jorge Aguirre (Goldie & Bear) is head writer and co-executive producer. Additional co-executive producers are Luis Lopez and Juan Lopez. Supervising Producer for Fred Rogers Productions is Olubunmi Mia Olufemi.

Be My Neighbor Day, the signature community outreach initiative for Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood spinoff Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, has attracted several hundred thousand in-person attendees nationwide since the program started in 2014. There have been more than 126,000 resources shared with participants, and attendees have helped create and assemble over 90,000 “giveback” items, such as health and first aid kits and thank you cards, for their communities. More than 30,000 items, such as sweaters and mittens, have also been collected for donation to the participating locales.

About the PNC Foundation 

The PNC Foundation, which receives its principal funding from The PNC Financial Services Group Inc.(NYSE:PNC) actively supports organizations that provide services for the benefit of communities in which it has a significant presence. The Foundation focuses its philanthropic mission on early childhood education and community and economic development, which includes the arts and culture. Through PNC Grow Up Great®, its signature cause that began in 2004, PNC has created a bilingual $500 million, multi-year initiative to help prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life. For more information, visit http://www.pncgrowupgreat.com. 

About Fred Rogers Productions 

Fred Rogers Productions was founded by Fred Rogers in 1971 as the non-profit producer of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood for PBS. In the years that followed, it created hundreds of episodes of this much-loved program and extended Fred’s values and approach to other efforts in promoting children’s social, emotional, and behavioral health while supporting parents, caregivers, teachers, and other professionals in their work with children. Fred Rogers Productions continues to build on Fred’s legacy in innovative ways through a wide variety of media and engages new generations of children and families with his timeless wisdom. The company’s highly rated children’s series, including Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Peg + Cat, Odd Squad, and Through the Woods, have earned 31 Emmy® Awards among other important honors. The company’s latest series are Donkey Hodie, the innovative puppet series inspired by characters from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and Alma’s Way, an animated series created by Sonia Manzano. Fred Rogers Productions strives to inspire a lifelong enthusiasm for learning through its series as well as efforts beyond broadcast including games and interactive offerings, community engagement activities, and much more. For more information, visit www.fredrogers.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Press contacts:

Grand Communications (for Fred Rogers Productions) 
Alison Grand 
212-584-1133; Alison@grandcommunications.com 

Laura Liebeck 
845-440-7974; Laura@grandcommunications.com 

Angie Carducci (for PNC) 
412-762-9186; angela.carducci@pnc.com

CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 27, 2025 /3BL/ – In a first of its kind agreement, New Jersey’s West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District (WWP) today announced a new partnership with Otus, the leading K-12 assessment, data, and insights solution, and Discovery Education, the creators of essential PreK-12 learning solutions used in classrooms around the world. Through this collaboration, Otus and Discovery Education are providing new resources that help WWP organize student data into actionable insights and enhance district educators’ ability to interpret that data and make informed, strategic decisions that improve achievement. 

Located in Central New Jersey’s Mercer County, WWP is a PreK-12 public school district that educates over 9,300 students and employs over 1,300 staff members in 10 schools across the West Windsor and Plainsboro Townships. Building upon their tradition of excellence, WWP’s mission is to empower all learners to thoughtfully contribute to a diverse and changing world with confidence, strength of character, and love of learning. 

To enhance the district’s ability to collect, read, and react to student assessment data, WWP’s team sought a digital solution that offered unparalleled insight into student performance. In addition, school administrators sought one resource that would provide both educators and families the tools and insights needed to support student success. Following a careful review of available solutions, WWP selected the Otus platform provided through Discovery Education. Through the Otus platform, WWP educators will: 

• Gain a holistic view of student learning with district assessment data in one place, including insights from DreamBox Math by Discovery Education, which is used by WWP teachers and students. A K-8 online math program that supplements core instruction in the classroom or at home, DreamBox Math, which was updated earlier this year with a host of improvements, is independently proven to increase math achievement.  
• Improve educators’ ability to collaborate in PLCs to group students with similar needs for targeted intervention or extension and align instructional strategies directly with data insights to ensure all student needs are met.
• Set every student up for success with a collaborative plan that outlines achievable goals and milestones to address academic, attendance, and other needs—while making progress visible to families. 

According to Allan Johnson, WWP’s Supervisor of Technology, Training, & Media Sources, “The addition of Otus to the district tech stack improves our educators’ ability to easily pull and analyze achievement data and then adjust instruction to improve student outcomes. We look forward to deploying this new resource districtwide.” 

WWP educators using Otus will receive dedicated professional development from Otus’ team of professional learning experts. Through these interactive professional development sessions, participants will learn best practices for integrating their new digital resources into instruction. Effective professional learning increases student engagement and supports the continued academic development of all students.    

“Discovery Education is thrilled to continue to support the students and teachers of the West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District through its unique collaboration with Otus,” said Tori Byrd, Discovery Education’s Manager of Educational Partnerships. “As the first school system nationwide to leverage the unique partnership between Otus and Discovery Education to combine high-quality learning solutions and state-of-the-art data analytics, West Windsor-Plainsboro is setting a new bar for innovation in this space.” 

To learn about how Otus and Discovery Education have collaborated to support student achievement, visit www.discoveryeducation.com/Solutions/Otus. 

For more information about Otus, visit www.otus.com and stay connected to Otus on social media through X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.    

For more information about Discovery Education, visit www.discoveryeducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.     

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About Otus 
Otus, an award-winning edtech platform, empowers educators to maximize student performance with comprehensive solutions for K12 assessment, data, and insights. Committed to student achievement and educational equity, Otus combines student data with powerful tools that provide educators, administrators, and families with the insights they need to make a difference. Built by teachers for teachers, Otus creates efficiencies in data management, assessments, and progress monitoring to help educators focus on what matters most—student success. Today, Otus partners with school districts nationwide to create informed, data-driven learning environments. Learn more at Otus.com. 

About Discovery Education  
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art, PreK-12, digital solutions support learning wherever it takes place. Through award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, innovative classroom tools, and strategic alliances, Discovery Education helps educators deliver powerful learning experiences that engage all students and support higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Through partnerships with districts, states, and trusted organizations, Discovery Education empowers teachers with essential edtech solutions that inspire curiosity, build confidence, and accelerate learning. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com.  

Contact 
Mike Peterson 
Otus 
Phone: 651-307-9251 
Email: mike.peterson@otus.com 

Stephen Wakefield 
Discovery Education 
Phone: 202-316-6615 
Email: swakefield@discoveryed.com