Alison King, VP Government Affairs, Forescout Technologies
Q: With your background in the Navy and subsequent government service, what inspired you to pursue these paths? And how did you transition into focusing on information security, technology, and cybersecurity?
A: My passion for federal service began with my role in the Navy, where I was fortunate to work closely with international partners, such as the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces and the Republic of Korea Navy as the Technical Project Manager for the STANDARD Missile 2 program. This experience gave me a deep appreciation for the Navy’s mission and experience supporting two of America’s strongest partners in the INDOPACOM. As my career progressed, my focus shifted toward cybersecurity policy as I recognized the importance of cyber to our national defense posture and economic prosperity. My work at the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC) and later at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) allowed me to work with some of the brightest minds in federal service to develop policy solutions to strengthen our nation’s cybersecurity posture.
Q: Sentinel Blue draws inspiration from the work of The McCrary Institute in promoting national security awareness at the collegiate level. As a Fellow, what are your primary areas of interest during your time with the Institute, and what motivates your focus in these areas?
As a Senior Fellow at Auburn University’s McCrary Institute, I’m focused on collaborating with a cohort of cybersecurity policy experts and world-class researchers to develop comprehensive and innovative policy solutions. I am passionate about advancing policies that protect critical infrastructure, as these attacks can potentially risk the safety and health of the public. What motivates me is the understanding that cyber threats evolve at an unprecedented rate, and our response must be equally agile. At the McCrary Institute, my goal is to engage with the next generation of leaders to prioritize cybersecurity as an essential component of national security, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and tools to navigate this complex landscape.
Q: You’ve had the opportunity to work alongside remarkable individuals in national security on initiatives that will have a lasting impact for decades. Who or what has been the most significant influence in shaping your career path to where you are today?
I have been fortunate to work with some incredible leaders and visionaries throughout my career. My time at the CSC was one of the most significant influences. Working on legislation that directly shaped our national cybersecurity policies was both a challenge and a privilege. My work on the Fiscal Year (FY21) National Defense Authorization Act, which included over 26 CSC recommendations, and acts as one of our nation’s most comprehensive and forward-looking pieces of national cybersecurity legislation, was another pivotal experience. It underscored the importance of forward-thinking policy in addressing cybersecurity challenges. I also owe much to my Defense Fellowship mentors, who provided invaluable insights into legislative processes and bipartisan collaboration in national security. Now, this experience influences my work every day as Vice President of Government Affairs at Forescout Technologies, where I lead relationships with Congress and the Executive Branch, driving federal policy, legislative initiatives, and strategic partnerships for our Federal Business.
Q: As a rising leader in cybersecurity (and truthfully, you’ve already made your mark), what advice would you offer to the next generation, who will soon be your colleagues in the field?
My advice to the next generation is to remain curious and coachable. Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field; staying informed on the latest developments is critical. At the same time, building relationships and fostering collaboration across public, private, or academic communities is essential in developing solutions that involve the right technology, policy, and training investments. Finally, seek out those who can guide you and, in turn, commit to mentoring others. We are all part of a larger mission to safeguard our nation, and we can only achieve that by working together and lifting each other up along the way.
