The Defense Information Systems Agency is taking a multidimensional approach to the development and growth of its cybersecurity workforce. Their main focus is on college and university engagement. The agency reaches out in person and over social media, and attends job fairs, holds virtual events and hosts academia for full days at DISA headquarters.
Lori Ramirez, acting director, Workforce Services Directorate, says DISA’s perception of cybersecurity professionals is different from the stereotype of a young, white male in a basement wearing a hoodie and writing code. “We see people of all types, all age ranges, and people who may want to move into [cyber from] another career field,” she says.