DOD Official Unveils New Approach in Hiring Cyber Workforce

The Department of Defense is taking a new approach to attracting cyber talent.

In an interview with Federal News Network at the recent West 2024 conference, Matthew Isnor, the branch chief for cyber workforce development in the department’s Office of the Chief Information Officer, said that the Pentagon is thinking outside the box in talent acquisition. He added that his team is no longer confined to attracting talent with four-year degrees and has since opened up to enthusiasts interested in building networks.

Isnor also disclosed plans to take advantage of the new 8140 policy to expand its talent pool to include positions in data software engineering, artificial intelligence and other job categories, Federal News Network reported.

While the DOD’s new cyber office is taking a new route in filing its cyber vacancy, the department is continuing its partnership with academic institutions to find fully qualified cyber workers, collaborating with organizations, such as the CIA’s Centers of Academic Excellence and the National Defense University.

The department made concrete its cyber workforce strategy in August after Kathleen Hicks, deputy secretary of defense and past Wash100 winner, signed a four-year implementation plan that will help meet its cyber talent needs.