Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Virtual conference addressing cybersecurity challenges specific to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and federal partners
- Sessions cover zero trust security models, advanced persistent threats, and cyber workforce development
- Designed for both IT professionals and non-IT staff with cybersecurity responsibilities in government and agriculture sectors
- Organized by the Federal Business Council in partnership with GSA
About the Event
The 2026 USDA Cybersecurity Expo is a virtual conference organized by the Federal Business Council in partnership with GSA. Operating under the theme “Cyber Resilience in a Digital World,” the event brings together federal employees, industry partners, and cybersecurity professionals working in or alongside the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The format includes pre-recorded speaking sessions, virtual exhibitor booths, networking opportunities, and downloadable digital programs.
Cybersecurity Topics for Agriculture and Federal Environments
The Expo addresses cybersecurity concerns particular to agricultural operations and federal government systems. Sessions examine zero trust security architecture, advanced persistent threats, and cybersecurity modernization efforts including FISMA metrics and automation. The program also covers foundational topics such as phishing awareness, online safety, and cybersecurity practices for home environments, recognizing that security awareness extends beyond technical staff.
Workforce development features prominently in the agenda, reflecting ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining cybersecurity talent within the public sector. The event explores strategies for building organizational resilience against cyber incidents while maintaining compliance with federal standards.
Federal Compliance and Modernization Context
Federal agencies face specific requirements around cybersecurity reporting, risk management, and incident response. The Expo addresses these obligations through sessions on FISMA metrics and zero trust implementation, both of which represent ongoing modernization priorities across government. Agriculture sector cybersecurity carries particular significance given the critical infrastructure status of food and agriculture systems.
Who Should Attend
The event targets multiple roles within federal and agriculture sector organizations:
- Senior executives and CIOs responsible for cybersecurity strategy
- Information systems security program managers (ISSPMs)
- USDA workforce members with security responsibilities
- Federal partners and industry contractors
- Non-IT staff assigned to IT security roles
The virtual format accommodates both technical practitioners seeking detailed implementation guidance and executive participants focused on policy and strategic planning.