What's Happening?
Nebraska has appointed Bryce Bailey as the interim Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) following the departure of former CISO Abby Eccher-Young. Bailey, who previously served as the deputy state CISO since June 2025, brings extensive experience
from various public-sector cybersecurity roles, including positions at the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and as a security operations center manager in Dallas. His appointment comes as Nebraska continues to enhance its cybersecurity infrastructure, notably through the Joint Security Operations Center (JSOC) established in 2024. The JSOC aims to bolster state and local government defenses and foster cross-sector collaboration. Bailey has outlined his focus on strengthening cyber resilience, fostering partnerships, and maintaining integrity in his new role. The state plans to post the permanent CISO position soon, with applications open for about 30 days.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Bryce Bailey as interim CISO is significant as it underscores Nebraska's proactive approach to cybersecurity amid increasing cyber threats and reduced federal support. By promoting from within, Nebraska ensures continuity and leverages Bailey's familiarity with state operations and existing cybersecurity strategies. This move is crucial for maintaining the momentum of initiatives like the JSOC, which plays a vital role in protecting state and local government networks. The focus on resilience and collaboration is essential for safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring the integrity of public services. As cyber threats evolve, Nebraska's leadership in cybersecurity could serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges.
What's Next?
Nebraska will soon open the application process for a permanent CISO, which is expected to attract candidates with diverse cybersecurity expertise. The state is also seeking a new Chief Data Officer (CDO) to manage and secure enterprise data systems, supporting initiatives in business intelligence and artificial intelligence. These appointments are part of a broader strategy to enhance Nebraska's technological infrastructure and data management capabilities. The outcomes of these leadership transitions will likely influence the state's ability to respond to cyber threats and manage data effectively, impacting public trust and operational efficiency.
