In a move aimed at bolstering the federal government’s cybersecurity defenses, U.S. Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Nancy Mace (R-SC) have introduced a new legislative proposal to establish a cybersecurity rotation program for federal cybersecurity employees. The proposed initiative would allow cybersecurity professionals to move more freely between various federal agencies, enabling a more dynamic and experienced workforce.
The bill comes in response to a long-standing shortage of skilled cybersecurity personnel across government departments. This shortage, which has persisted for over two decades, has left many federal agencies underprepared in the face of increasing cyber threats. By allowing workers to rotate among departments, the bill’s sponsors believe the government can cultivate a more agile and well-rounded cybersecurity workforce.
Cybersecurity Rotation Program : Attracting and Retaining Talent
Rep. Khanna emphasized the program’s potential to make government cybersecurity roles more appealing to job seekers. “It would be very attractive for someone to come to the federal government and not just work in one agency, but have the opportunity to gain experience across multiple departments,” Khanna said. He added that such a structure would not only broaden employees’ expertise but also enhance their future career prospects, particularly if they transition into the private sector.
By rotating through different agencies, cybersecurity professionals would be exposed to a wide range of systems, policies, and threat landscapes. This cross-agency experience could result in more innovative and informed strategies to combat evolving cyber risks. The initiative also aims to keep federal roles competitive with private-sector opportunities, which often draw top talent away from government positions due to higher pay and more diverse project offerings.
Addressing a Persistent Skills Gap
The global shortage of cybersecurity professionals has had a particularly acute impact on U.S. government operations, making it challenging for agencies to recruit and retain the talent necessary to safeguard national security. The Cybersecurity rotation program proposed by Khanna and Mace is viewed as a strategic step toward alleviating this issue by offering professional growth, skill-building, and inter-agency collaboration.
While the legislation is still in its early stages, it has garnered attention for its bipartisan approach and practical focus on workforce development. Both lawmakers argue that enhancing mobility and flexibility within the cybersecurity workforce is essential for national defense and the modernization of government digital infrastructure.
If implemented, the program could serve as a model for other specialized federal roles facing similar workforce shortages. Supporters of the bill are hopeful it will gain traction in Congress and help reshape the landscape of government cybersecurity employment, making it a more viable and dynamic career path for future professionals.
