With cybersecurity becoming an everyday concern for countries and individuals alike, you’d think we’re doing everything possible to keep our digital defenses airtight. However, recent layoffs in federal cybersecurity roles are raising serious red flags. Ted, CEO of PCA Technology Solutions, recently sat down with KFYR Plus News Desk to unpack what this means for America’s cyber resilience—and where we go from here.

When asked about the mass firing of probationary federal employees, Ted didn’t mince words. He explained that with fewer hands-on deck, the U.S. will have to lean more heavily on technology—particularly automation and artificial intelligence (AI). But the big question is: are we ready for that shift? “We need to double down on our automation tools and AI plan,” Kla urged. Without a solid strategy, the gap left by these layoffs could make us vulnerable to all kinds of threats.

AI is undoubtedly the future, and Ted believes it’ll soon be as common as calculators. But there’s a catch. While AI can help defend against cyber-attacks, bad actors will use it too, making this an all-out AI war. “Future wars will be more in cyberspace than in human space,” he warned, painting a picture of what lies ahead if we don’t act fast. To win, Ted says, we need to lead the charge in AI innovation and implementation.

Even though probationary employees may be new to the job, they’re vital for bringing fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the table. According to Ted, the cybersecurity landscape is constantly changing, and having a pipeline of talent to tackle those changes is essential. “We need all the people we can get to share and spread ideas,” he said. However, with fewer people available, he emphasized the urgency of bolstering our efforts with technology.

Ted made a compelling case for partnerships between government agencies and the private sector, highlighting that many private companies have the expertise and resources to help bridge staffing gaps. “The government would be wise to partner with the best of the best in this space,” he suggested, stressing how collaboration could make our cybersecurity strategy more efficient and effective.

Looking to the future, Ted laid out a few critical challenges. One misstep could cost millions—or more—so the need for layered defenses is more important than ever. “If one layer fails, the whole house can’t come crumbling down,” he explained. The key is building a system that can withstand relentless attacks 24/7, keeping both offensive and defensive strategies strong.

Ted’s message is clear: while the challenges are massive, they’re not insurmountable. With AI, strategic partnerships, and an unrelenting focus on innovation, the U.S. can strengthen its cybersecurity and stay ahead of its adversaries.

Check out Ted’s complete interview on KFYR Plus News Desk. Don’t miss his insights on how we can protect America’s critical infrastructure and lead the way in AI-driven cybersecurity.