Texas Takes a Giant Leap in Cybersecurity with the Launch of Texas Cyber Command
It's an exciting time for cybersecurity in the public sector, and Texas is once again leading the charge. This last two weeks marked a truly historic moment with the official launch of the Texas Cyber Command, now the largest state-based cybersecurity agency in the country. Headquartered in San Antonio, with The University of Texas at San Antonio playing a pivotal role, this initiative is a testament to forward-thinking leadership and a commitment to securing our digital future.
This monumental achievement was championed by Giovanni Capriglione and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott. It's a significant milestone not just for Texas, but for the broader cybersecurity landscape, setting a new precedent for how states can proactively address evolving threats and build robust defenses.
Just last week, I had the privilege of discussing Texas' innovative approach to cybersecurity with Tony Sauerhoff, State CISO for the Texas Department of Information Resources, and Dr. Don Topliff, Provost at Angelo State University. We connected at the Code for America Summit in Washington, D.C., and our conversation naturally gravitated towards the state's Regional Security Operations Centers (RSOCs).
These RSOCs are more than just security hubs; they are incubators for the next generation of cyber talent. By integrating with universities, they provide invaluable hands-on experience for students while simultaneously bolstering the state's cybersecurity resilience. This model, which Angelo State University pioneered as the first pilot, has yielded remarkable outcomes, benefiting both the state's security posture and the students' professional development. The Texas Cyber Command will undoubtedly be a key interface point for these RSOCs moving forward, further strengthening this synergistic relationship.
As the cybersecurity landscape continues its rapid evolution, the work being done in Texas offers a compelling example for other states. It demonstrates innovative ways to build resilience, address critical cybersecurity talent gaps, and foster a culture of proactive defense. This is precisely the kind of strategic thinking and collaborative effort that will be essential in safeguarding our digital infrastructure.
My sincere congratulations go out to Giovanni Capriglione, Amanda Crawford, Tony Sauerhoff, and every individual who contributed to the passage and implementation of this groundbreaking bill. Their dedication and foresight are truly commendable. I strongly encourage anyone interested in the future of cybersecurity in government to explore the resources below and learn more about the incredible work Texas is doing:
Read more from Government Technology: https://lnkd.in/gqgtb_iJ
RSOC Overview (from DIR): https://lnkd.in/gBU7weGZ
Cyber Command One-pager: https://lnkd.in/guMjv9Gi
Read the Signed Bill: https://lnkd.in/gU8UpXtX
