Free training to help local Iowa officials prep for technology outages

August 16, 2026 - 04:39

AMES, Iowa - Local government and school administrators across Iowa now have access to free training sessions focused on preparing for unexpected technology outages. The program, open to city administrators, county officials, and school district leaders, aims to build practical backup plans for when computer systems, networks, or digital records suddenly go down.

The training covers a range of scenarios, from ransomware attacks to power failures that knock out servers. Participants will learn how to assess their current vulnerabilities, prioritize critical services, and create step-by-step response procedures. The goal is to ensure that essential operations, such as payroll, emergency dispatch, and student records, can continue even if digital tools are unavailable for days.

Organizers say many smaller municipalities and rural school districts lack dedicated IT staff, making them especially vulnerable to disruptions. The sessions are designed to be hands-on, with templates and checklists that officials can take back to their own offices. No prior technical expertise is required.

Registration is open now, and the training will be offered at several regional locations over the coming months. While the program is free, space is limited, so early sign-up is encouraged. Officials interested in participating can find scheduling details through their county association or by contacting the state's emergency management division. The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen local resilience against growing digital threats.