As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, two 188th Airlift Wing Airmen discuss cybersecurity careers in the Air National Guard.

“Massive advances in artificial intelligence are being implemented into virtually every aspect of IT,” said Master Sgt. Brian Depper, whose role at the 153rd Intelligence Squadron is to maintain the integrity and security of the 188th Wing’s cyber infrastructure. “For cybersecurity, with every new opportunity that emerges in IT, a new vulnerability is born, and attackers are always looking for ways to exploit new opportunities.”

With increasing access and evolving technology expanding the threat landscape, the cybersecurity career field is not one-size-fits-all. Another common misconception is that all cybersecurity roles are the same.

“Each area of ​​IT has its own skill set and craftsmanship,” Depper explained. Just as medical specialties vary, so do IT fields, each requiring specific expertise.”

Master Sgt. Jerry Johnson is an information systems security officer (ISSO) with the 188th Intelligence and Surveillance Group.

“A strong program is built on many factors, and in these areas everyone works as a team to ensure success,” Johnson said. “It’s not as simple as installing a device or a program and you’re safe.”

Part of working together as a team is to follow established Intelligence Community, DoD, and Air Force cybersecurity policies and procedures, as well as ensure that all systems adhere to the physical security measures outlined in the Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and maintain other measures for ensuring security. prevent internal threats such as unauthorized use of removable media or data leakage.

While the core cybersecurity responsibilities are the same across all sectors, the Air National Guard faces unique challenges, particularly in recruiting and retaining employees.

“The civilian sector often pays significantly more, which can impact our ability to retain talent,” Depper said.

Despite this, the sense of duty and opportunity to serve a larger mission brings significant satisfaction. Cyber ​​professionals at ANG support global missions, whether assisting in conflict zones or responding to environmental crises.

Johnson noted the difference in implementation. “ANG cybersecurity is defined and implemented as a large organization, whereas the civilian sector is built and implemented with fewer restrictions and sometimes at greater expense.”

Johnson and Depper encourage high school and college students to explore the cybersecurity career field and check out their options.

“The field is so broad and the demand around the world is so high that you can really pick any field and be successful,” Depper advised. “Network management and information assurance are particularly promising sectors, often offering remote work opportunities and competitive salaries.”

Johnson also recommended looking into certifications.

“Programming languages, including coding fundamentals and information technology networking fundamentals, are basic areas of understanding, as is the risk management process,” Johnson said. “However, certificates are just as important as degrees. For example, Cisco and CompTIA provide IT certifications.”