National Cybersecurity Education: Bridging Defense to Offense

Abstract

Defense Secretary Robert Gates approved the creation of a unified cyber command under the Obama Administration that was focused on cyber operations. This organization was to oversee the protection of government networks against cyber threats known and unknown. Coupled with growing attacks on national infrastructure, digital theft of intellectual property, and election meddling has the United States government actively working to develop cybersecurity talent. Some of the changes that have come as a result are more specialized degree program accreditation, technical frameworks, and policies to help usher this realization of the need to address the shortage of talent for today’s mission.