Mounting Chinese threat prompts CISA to ramp up hiring

Cybersecurity Dive reports that intensified hiring efforts will be implemented by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency next year to better combat increasing cyber threats from China.

Addressing limited CISA functioning due to significant staffing cuts imposed by President Donald Trump also necessitates an aggressive push to enlist highly qualified professionals in the agency by the end of fiscal year 2026, noted Acting CISA Director Madhu Gottumukkala in a memo to employees.

Aside from focusing on recruiting state cybersecurity coordinators and regional cybersecurity advisors, CISA will also make itself more attractive to industry experts and junior practitioners through the Department of Homeland Security's Cyber Talent Management System.

Additional return-to-office exemptions are also being mulled for certain employees while expanded collaboration with colleges and universities is also in the cards, with CISA moving to revive its internship program.

"CISA must immediately accelerate recruitment, workforce development, and retention initiatives to ensure mission readiness and operational continuity," said Gottumukkala.