Katherine “Katie” Arrington didn’t sugarcoat it at the DoD Cyber Workforce Summit at National Defense University. Her message? The way we’ve been doing cybersecurity is broken, and it’s time to fix it.
For too long, complacency has crept in. Patch the hole, follow the policy, rinse, repeat. Meanwhile, our adversaries aren’t sitting idle—they’re studying our playbook, understanding our architecture, and exploiting our routines. China’s cyber force alone is reportedly 50,000 strong. We can’t afford to keep fighting this war one-handed.
“This is your moment to take risks,” Arrington urged. Not reckless risks—but bold, calculated ones. The art of the possible is right in front of us. But to seize it, we need to think like the adversary. Anticipate. Adapt. Innovate.
Cyber Isn’t a Side Gig Anymore
One of Arrington’s key takeaways? Security can’t be an afterthought. It’s not a box to check after the system is built or the contract is signed. It has to be baked in from the beginning—whether we’re talking about software, hardware, or critical infrastructure.
And speaking of infrastructure, Arrington made it clear: It’s just as vital as any weapon in the DoD’s arsenal. Weak links in the grid, supply chain vulnerabilities, unsecured devices—they’re all fair game for adversaries who see cyber not as an option, but as a primary battleground.
Knowledge Is Power. So Is Communication.
Education isn’t just for the next generation of cyber pros—it’s for everyone. We can’t foster a strong workforce if security stays siloed or treated like a niche concern. Cyber readiness should be second nature, not an add-on.
And it’s not enough to hunker down in your own corner. Communicate upward. Make sure leadership knows the real challenges, the gaps, the areas where the policies just aren’t cutting it anymore. Otherwise, the status quo stays exactly where it is.
Leave Ego at the Door
Arrington closed with a reminder every cybersecurity pro should tape to their desk: Hope you’re not the smartest person in the room. Cyber defense isn’t a solo mission. It takes a full community—different backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise—all working together to stay one step ahead.
Every new breach? It’s more than a headline—it’s an attack on democracy itself. So if you’re in the fight, remember why you’re doing the work. It’s not just about the next patch or compliance deadline.
It’s about the mission. And right now, that mission calls for boldness, collaboration, and a willingness to rewrite the rules.
