WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today asked Dr. Heather Wilson, President Trump’s choice to be the next Air Force Secretary, about how the Air Force plans to retain pilots, as well as the service’s cyber workforce.

In regard to the cyber workforce, Dr. Wilson replied by saying that she would direct the Air Force to utilize a provision passed in last year’s defense authorization bill that allows the military to explore direct commissioning programs. This could provide new opportunities for National Guard members and other high-skilled workers to engage in cybersecurity efforts.

She also explained that targeted bonuses, quality of service, and maintaining readiness could help retain Air Force pilots, especially fighter pilots, in the long run.

Wicker recently introduced legislation with Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., to improve the cybersecurity workforce pipeline by expanding an existing federal scholarship program for students pursuing degrees in cybersecurity fields. Mississippi State University has been a leader in this endeavor, utilizing the CyberCorps program for the past decade. This legislation would continue that support while expanding access to community college and K-12 students across Mississippi.