Outgoing WH official calls for US to bolster cybersecurity workforce by hiring non-degree holders

The White House’s outgoing cyber czar, Harry Coker, recently emphasized the urgent need for increased funding, deregulation, and expanding cyber job opportunities to individuals without college degrees in order to combat the rising threat of digital attacks. In a speech at an event with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies in Washington, D.C., Coker stressed the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity within federal budgets, particularly in the face of relentless cyber assaults from adversaries like Iran, China, and Russia.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by budget constraints, Coker underscored the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding the nation’s digital infrastructure. He called on the incoming administration to recognize and address the pressing need for cybersecurity funding, even amidst budgetary limitations.

Furthermore, Coker highlighted the burden of excessive federal regulations on cybersecurity professionals, noting that a significant portion of their time is spent on compliance rather than enhancing security measures. He advocated for streamlining regulations through bipartisan legislation to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders and promote regulatory harmonization.

As the U.S. grapples with the fallout of China’s recent cyberattacks, including the notorious Salt Typhoon breach, Coker’s call for regulatory reform and increased cybersecurity funding takes on added significance. The Salt Typhoon attack, which targeted U.S. telecommunications companies and compromised sensitive information, underscored the gravity of the cybersecurity threat posed by foreign adversaries.

In response to the escalating cyber threats, Coker emphasized the need to address the recruitment challenges facing the cyber industry. With nearly 500,000 open cyber jobs in the U.S., Coker advocated for a shift in hiring practices to prioritize skills over traditional college degrees. By removing the emphasis on four-year degrees, Coker argued that the talent pool for cybersecurity roles could be expanded to include individuals with diverse educational backgrounds and experiences.

In conclusion, Coker’s recommendations for increased funding, deregulation, and expanding job opportunities in cybersecurity reflect a proactive approach to addressing the evolving cyber threats facing the nation. By heeding his advice and implementing reforms to strengthen cybersecurity defenses, the U.S. can better protect its digital infrastructure and mitigate the risks posed by hostile actors in the cyber domain.