Photo By Maj. Jennifer Gerhardt | As Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues, two 188th Wing Airmen discuss the...... read more read more
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As Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues, two 188th Wing Airmen discuss the cybersecurity career field in the Air National Guard.
“Massive advancements in AI are being incorporated into almost every facet of IT,” said Master Sgt. Bryan Depper, whose role in the 153rd Intelligence Squadron is to maintain the integrity and security of the 188th Wing’s cyber infrastructure. “For cyber security, every new capability that emerges in the IT field, a new vulnerability is born, and bad actors are always looking for ways to exploit new capabilities.”
With the increase in access and technology advances widening the threat landscape, the cyber security career field isn’t a one-size-fits all. Another common misconception is that all cybersecurity roles are the same.
“Each IT field has a different skill set and mastery,” clarified Depper. Just as medical specialties vary, so do the areas within IT, each requiring specific expertise.”
Master Sgt. Jerry Johnson, is an information systems security officer (ISSO) for the 188th Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Group.
“A solid program is built on many factors, and within those areas, all are working as a team to ensure success,” said Johnson. “It is not just installing a device or program and you are secure.”
Part of working together as a team is to follow established intelligence community, Department of Defense, and Air Force cybersecurity policies and procedures while also ensuring all systems adhere to the physical security measures outlined in Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and maintain other measures to prevent insider threats, such as unauthorized usage of removable media or data spillages.
While the core responsibilities in cybersecurity are similar across sectors, the Air National Guard faces unique challenges, particularly in recruitment and retention.
“The civilian sector often pays substantially more, which can impact our ability to retain talent,” said Depper.
Despite this, the sense of duty and the opportunity to serve a larger mission provide significant fulfillment. Cyber professionals in the ANG support global missions, whether aiding in conflict zones or responding to environmental crises.
Johnson noted the difference in implementation. “ANG cybersecurity is defined and implemented as a large organization, whereas the civilian sector is built and implemented with fewer restrictions and at times greater cost.”
Johnson and Depper encourage high school and college students to investigate the cyber security career field and check out the options.
“The field is so broad, and in such high demand globally, you could really pick any area and be successful,” advised Depper. “Network management and information assurance are particularly promising sectors, often offering remote work opportunities and competitive salaries.”
Johnson also recommended looking into certifications.
“Programming languages, including coding fundamentals and Information Technology network fundamentals, are basic areas of understanding as is the Risk Management Framework process,” said Johnson. “However, certifications are just as important as degrees. Cisco and CompTIA, for example, provide certifications within IT.”
| Date Taken: | 10.21.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 10.21.2024 11:54 |
| Story ID: | 483542 |
| Location: | ARKANSAS, US |
| Web Views: | 149 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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