DHS launches new cybersecurity hiring program to recruit, train and retain professionals

With cybersecurity professionals in increased demand across the public and private sphere, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) this week launched the Cybersecurity Talent Management System (CTMS) to help it attract, develop and keep talent of its own.

“The DHS Cybersecurity Talent Management System fundamentally re-imagines how the Department hires, develops, and retains top-tier and diverse cybersecurity talent,” Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said. “As our Nation continues to face an evolving threat landscape, we cannot rely only on traditional hiring tools to fill mission-critical vacancies. This new system will enable our Department to better compete for cybersecurity professionals and remain agile enough to meet the demands of our critical cybersecurity mission.”

CTMS is meant to bring DHS in line with mission and market demands in the sector and help it overcome staffing challenges. It will screen applicants based on their demonstrated competencies, competitively compensate existing employees and reduce onboarding time. Anyone hired through CTMS will join the new DHS Cybersecurity Service to protect U.S. critical infrastructure and citizens from cybersecurity threats.

Initially, CTMS will be utilized to fill high-priority jobs at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and DHS Office of the Chief Information Officer. Starting next year, this will expand to several DHS agencies with cybersecurity missions.