U.S. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH) have introduced the Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would strengthen the U.S.’ cyber defenses and cybersecurity workforce by creating two new training programs within the federal government. One of the training programs would specifically recruit veterans for these in-demand jobs.

“We are seeing reports of cyber attacks at an alarming rate,” said Houlahan. “The damage of security breaches is reaching new, treacherous highs every day, and we must respond accordingly – the U.S. needs an experienced cybersecurity workforce to defend ourselves and our interests against bad actors. This legislation does exactly that. By training the veteran community to fill some of these jobs, we are not only doing what is right for our brave service members but also what is right for our national security.”

“When our servicemen and women return from the battlefield, we must do everything in our power to make sure they have a smooth transition back into civilian life,” Gonzalez said. “I am pleased to co-sponsor this legislation that will not only specifically recruit veterans for these in-demand jobs but would also strengthen the United States cyber defenses and cybersecurity workforce.”

According to the final report of the Future of Defense Task Force, which Rep. Houlahan served on last Congress, the United States must develop a 21st century workforce with the requisite skills and talent to maintain our strategic advantage. The report concludes that attracting and retaining a diverse group of technical talent is key to maintaining that advantage and the U.S. remaining competitive in evolving defense apparatuses.

The Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act establishes two new programs:

•A cybersecurity registered apprenticeship program in the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
•A pilot program housed in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to give cybersecurity training to veterans

U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the Senate companion bill earlier this year.

Before coming to Congress, Houlahan worked on anti-ballistic missile defense command and control design as an Air Force officer. As an entrepreneur, she learned the dangers of cyber threats against U.S. companies, impacting our economy. Given these experiences, she understands that our national security and our economy are stronger when our cyber defenses can adapt to emerging threats.