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Cyber dominance meaningless without skilled workforce: FederalNewsRadio

On 10/24, Rep. Jim Langevin wrote an op-ed for FederalNewsRadio on the U.S. cyber workforce.  The beginning of the op-ed covered the challenges of cyberspace and the uncertainty over how far the DoD’s reach should extend in domestic networks.  Indeed, as Rep. Langevin noted, “DoD’s own networks are reliant upon commercial capabilities for their daily needs . . . our military bases, depots and other defense-related critical infrastructure . . . are dependent on commercial inputs, such as power, water, and other utilities . . ..”  In this vein, Rep. Langevin argued for clarifying DoD’s authorities.

He then transitioned to the cyber workforce, and found that the “greatest challenge faced by the Department of Defense . . . is human resources.”  To this end, DoD is falling short.  Rep. Langevin cited several promising programs that could increase the cyber workforce: NSA/DHS Cyber Centers of Excellence, the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot program, and Cyber Foundations Competitions.  However, more is needed.  “The best cybersecurity policies won’t amount to anything without the correct people to execute them . . ..”

You can find the rest of the FederalNewsRadio op-ed here.

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