Maximizing Cyber Intelligence and Security Team Capabilities Through DEI

Abstract

The cyber intelligence and security sector faces a growing number of threats and attacks that are increasing in complexity, but reports indicate that the current workforce lacks the qualified professionals needed to combat them. The U.S. Government and the educational community have been increasing efforts to help grow and diversify a workforce that continues to be primarily white male dominated. However, there are organization-level tactics that can be leveraged to increase and enhance the talent pool. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiates should be viewed not only as opportunities to engender equality but also as an opportunity to help recruit and develop the talent pool necessary to strategically heighten cyber intelligence and security capabilities. Consequently, the author reviews the benefits that DEI can bring to cybersecurity and discuss practical recommendations for moving forward with DEI initiative that can help support the industry's growing challenges.