CISA 2018: Big News for US Government Contractors

The Department of Homeland Security recently gained a new agency thanks to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Act of 2018. The agency, called the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), focuses on U.S. cybersecurity, infrastructure security, and emergency communications. This new initiative will require the collaboration of a variety of private and public-sector organizations, which could mean great upcoming opportunities for government contractors!

Cybersecurity

One of the three main divisions of CISA is cybersecurity. CISA is now home to the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center (NCCIC). Since 2009, the NCCIC has been a staple in U.S. cybersecurity efforts, providing 24/7 cyber situational awareness, analysis, incident response and cyber defense capabilities. CISA offers the tools, services and capabilities necessary to protect the cyber networks of federal departments and agencies.

Infrastructure

Another division of CISA is Infrastructure protection, more specifically, the National Risk Management Center (NRMC). CISA and the NRMC work closely with the private sector and key stakeholders to provide comprehensive risk analysis for our nation’s most critical infrastructure. CISA delivers training, technical assistance and assessments to U.S. federal stakeholders, along with infrastructure owners and operators as well. This division relies heavily on industry collaboration.

Emergency Communications

The final division of CISA monitors emergency communications. CISA not only focuses on preventing risk, but also aims to better our country’s emergency response methods. Through training, coordination and guidance, CISA aims to further develop emergency communication capabilities throughout the United States. The goal is to work with industry leaders to improve the abilities of U.S. emergency response teams and government officials in times of emergency such as natural disaster or terrorism.

Final Thoughts

These new initiatives under CISA will require the expertise of top talent in the cybersecurity, infrastructure defense and emergency response industries. CISA, as the successor to the National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD), will continue to seek new industry partners as it flourishes into the leading infrastructure defense agency. Be on the lookout for potential government contracting opportunities as this agency solidifies. Want more information on CISA? Check out this DHS article.

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