JEFFERSON CITY • Gov. Eric Greitens announced on Friday a pact between the state of Missouri and HackerUSA, a cyber security education firm with roots in Israel.

According to a news release, the agreement "paves the way" for Missouri colleges and universities to work with the firm in order to start cyber security training programs "designed to help technology professionals protect their organizations and citizens from cyber attacks."

Greitens' office said he signed a memorandum of understanding during his trade mission to Israel this week, during which the governor met with top officials, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The release did not indicate which schools may be interested in participating, and said training will meet industry standards.

"Cyber security can be a great strength for our state, and we can create more good jobs for Missourians," Greitens said in the release.

HackerUSA is an offshoot of HackerU, according to the release, which has helped military, business and governmental entities for two decades with cyber security needs. The release said HackerUSA has partnerships with schools in multiple U.S. states, including Florida and New York.