General Discusses J-6 Transformational Challenges

Brig. Gen. Mitch Butikofer, USAF, was the chapter's April guest speaker and covered J-6 transformational challenges. Working closely with other directorates over the past nine months, the TCJ6 team ensured that the U.S. Transportation Command's information technology, data and cybersecurity strategies were in lockstep with the command's operational strategy. TCJ6 has five strategic initiatives: implement service-oriented architecture (SOA); evolve the common computing environment (CCE); shape the Joint Information Enterprise (JIE) strategy; institutionalize chief information officer (CIO) governance; and inspire cyber excellence. These strategies will guide the directorate's efforts in the near- to medium-term future. In addition, TCJ6 is responsible for the enterprise infrastructure portfolio and leverages CIO Councils and Forum to ensure compliance with CIO policy and standards to protect information, networks and systems. In a constantly evolving environment, partnerships and relationships are key to strengthening collective cybersecurity. Cyber defense challenges discussed included: insider threat mitigation, adversary detection, industrial and supervisory control systems, information sharing with commercial partners, enterprise cloud environments and software assurance. The objective is to reduce enterprise operational risk and increase mission assurance for Defense Department deployment and distribution operations. Upcoming events: The 2015 scholarship dinner will be May 21, the AFCEA Mid-America Cyberspace Symposium takes place June 2-3, and the annual scholarship golf tournament is October 2. Second Lt. Kyle Smathers, USAF, was the April AFCEAN of the month.

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