HP Federal’s Todd Gustafson: Agencies Should Come Up With Cyber Plan, Address Talent Shortage

Todd Gustafson, president of HP’s federal arm, wrote in an article published Tuesday on FedTech Magazine that there are three steps federal agencies should take to improve their cybersecurity posture as they pursue information technology modernization and the first is developing a comprehensive cybersecurity plan.

“As those agencies increasingly migrate to the cloud and start sharing more information, the demand for a universal plan to maximize the security posture of every agency, not just a select few, is critical,” Gustafson wrote. “This plan will have to start with defense in depth.”

The next step calls for agencies to address the shortage in cybersecurity talent.

“For agencies unable to pay as much as corporations, this could mean offering faster tracks for career advancement, more flexible hours or attractive international assignments,” Gustafson said. “It could even involve developing talent at a college level through mentorship, internship and diversity programs.”

He noted that agencies should forge partnerships with the private sector to protect government infrastructure from cyber threats.