Energy Cyber Workforce Policy Brief

This policy brief examines the growing shortage of cybersecurity professionals in the energy sector and outlines actions governors and state leaders can take to strengthen the talent pipeline. Developed by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices with support from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response, the brief highlights the increasing cyber threats targeting critical energy infrastructure and the need for skilled professionals who can secure both information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems. It recommends strategies such as interagency collaboration, partnerships with energy companies, workforce development initiatives, apprenticeships, and expanded cybersecurity education to build a resilient workforce capable of protecting energy systems.