Jen Easterly, cybersecurity's 'relentless optimist,' hopes feds come back to RSAC next year

Jen Easterly, the former Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) director and a prominent figure in the cybersecurity community, is gearing up for the return of the RSAC conference in 2026. Known for her relentless optimism and forward-thinking approach, Easterly is eager to see the U.S. federal government re-engage with the RSAC conference, an annual event that brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the latest advancements and challenges in cybersecurity.

Easterly's enthusiasm for RSAC stems from its reputation as a premier forum for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. The conference has historically been a key event for federal agencies, including CISA, to stay informed about emerging threats and innovative solutions. However, in recent years, the federal government's participation in RSAC has diminished, with some agencies opting to focus on other events or initiatives. Easterly believes that this trend needs to reverse, and she is actively working to encourage federal agencies to reconsider their presence at RSAC.

In a recent interview, Easterly highlighted the importance of RSAC in fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among cybersecurity professionals. "Everybody feels massive FOMO if they don't get to RSAC," she said, referencing the fear of missing out that many industry insiders experience. This sentiment underscores the conference's status as a must-attend event for those in the cybersecurity field, and Easterly hopes that the federal government will recognize its value and re-engage with it.

Beyond her advocacy for federal participation, Easterly also shared her perspective on the growing concerns surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on cybersecurity. She emphasized that there is no reason to panic about AI and security, as the two fields can actually complement each other. Easterly believes that AI has the potential to significantly enhance cybersecurity by enabling more efficient threat detection and response. However, she also acknowledges the need for careful oversight and regulation to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly and ethically.

Easterly's optimism extends to the broader cybersecurity landscape. She is confident that the industry is well-equipped to address the challenges posed by evolving threats, such as ransomware, nation-state attacks, and cyber espionage. She attributes this confidence to the collective expertise and dedication of cybersecurity professionals, who are constantly innovating and adapting to new threats. Easterly also highlights the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as international cooperation, in building a more secure digital future.

As the RSAC conference approaches in 2026, Easterly's vision for the event is one of renewed federal engagement and continued innovation. She envisions a conference that not only showcases the latest advancements in cybersecurity but also serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue between policymakers and industry experts. Easterly's relentless optimism and commitment to fostering collaboration are expected to play a significant role in achieving this vision.

In conclusion, Jen Easterly's advocacy for the RSAC conference and her reassurance about the future of AI and cybersecurity highlight her enduring optimism and dedication to the field. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, Easterly's vision for a more secure digital future relies on the collaboration of federal agencies, industry professionals, and global partners. With RSAC 2026 on the horizon, Easterly's efforts to re-engage the federal government with the conference are expected to have a lasting impact on the cybersecurity community.