White House Cybersecurity Official Urges Tech Companies to Safeguard User Data and Encourage Federal Jobs in Industry

White House cybersecurity official, Jake Braun, emphasized the need for tech companies to take more responsibility in safeguarding users’ data during a recent visit to San Antonio. Speaking at Texas A&M San Antonio’s “Tech Fiesta,” Braun highlighted the importance of removing the burden of cybersecurity from individuals and shifting it to the companies that design the technology.

Braun stressed the significance of long-term investments in cybersecurity, noting that simply adding cybersecurity measures onto existing systems is not the most efficient approach. He pointed to President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda, which includes a $1.8 trillion spending package aimed at modernizing infrastructure and bolstering cybersecurity.

As part of the strategy, Braun encouraged students to consider federal jobs in the cybersecurity industry, citing a significant number of job vacancies in Texas, including in San Antonio. He also launched a “Tech Hiring Sprint” initiative to streamline the application process for federal cyber jobs.

The event, attended by about 100 people, aimed to raise awareness of Texas A&M San Antonio’s cybersecurity programs. Freshman Eirik Marquez, who emceed the event, expressed hope that it would help elevate the university’s cybersecurity program’s profile.

Jeong Yang, director of the university’s Center for Information Technology and Cyber Security, noted that Braun’s visit was a turning point in raising awareness of the program. She emphasized the importance of building a strong cybersecurity workforce to ensure that cybersecurity is integrated into projects from the beginning.

Overall, Braun’s visit highlighted the critical need for tech companies to prioritize cybersecurity and for individuals to consider careers in the industry to help address the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals.