LINCOLN, NEBRASKA, january 29, 2026 – Nebraska’s cybersecurity landscape is shifting as Bryce Bailey steps into the role of interim chief Information Security Officer (CISO) on January 27, taking the reins of state cybersecurity operations. This transition comes as states increasingly shoulder more responsibility for protecting their digital infrastructure, particularly with decreasing federal support.
A Whole-of-State Approach to Digital Defense
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States are bolstering cybersecurity defenses for local governments through extensive, statewide strategies.
The change in leadership coincides with a broader trend: governments like Nebraska are adopting a “whole-of-state” approach to cybersecurity, aiming to strengthen the defenses of cities and counties across the state.
New Leadership, Continued Momentum
Bailey’s appointment follows the departure of former CISO Abby Eccher-Young, as confirmed by Noah Finlan, deputy director and chief operating officer within the Nebraska office of the CIO (OCIO).Finlan indicated that a job posting for a permanent CISO will be released within days, with a 30-day submission window.
“Nebraska is built on trust, resilience, and people who quietly get the job done, and that’s exactly how I approach cybersecurity,” Bailey shared in a LinkedIn post announcing his interim status. He outlined three key priorities for his tenure: strengthening cyber resilience, fostering partnerships across agencies and communities, and serving Nebraska with “integrity and consistency.”
what are the key components of a robust cybersecurity strategy? A comprehensive strategy includes proactive threat detection, incident response planning, employee training, and regular security assessments.
The state launched its Joint Security Operations Center (JSOC) in 2024, establishing a dedicated facility within the OCIO, a specialized team, and a strategic framework for state cybersecurity efforts. Eccher-Young noted in September that the JSOC, while still evolving under state leadership, already serves as a valuable resource for local governments and aims to facilitate greater collaboration across sectors.
“Cybersecurity isn’t a short-term effort,” Bailey emphasized in his LinkedIn post, underscoring the ongoing nature of digital protection.
Data Leadership Also in Transition
In a seperate progress, the OCIO is also seeking a Chief Data Officer (CDO). A job posting released three days ago details the CDO’s responsibilities, which include managing and securing enterprise data systems to ensure accuracy and accessibility across state agencies, as well as supporting the growth of Power Business intelligence and AI initiatives.
The state’s first CDO, Prabhakar Vijayarangam, announced his search for a new position on September 22 in a LinkedIn post, having served in the role from August 2024 until September 2025, according to his LinkedIn profile.
