Page 203 - Cyber Defense eMagazine RSAC Special Edition 2025

"Embedding security into AI from the beginning isn’t optional; it’s the foundation for resilient and
transformational outcomes. For federal agencies to scale AI responsibly, robust, scalable infrastructure
and proactive security measures must go hand in hand. At Dell, we’ve witnessed how public-private
collaboration can bridge the gap between AI’s promise and secure implementation, unlocking value while
mitigating risk. By prioritizing data quality and protection, accessibility, and integrated safeguards, we can
build resilient AI systems that empower governments to lead with confidence, trust, and a commitment
to delivering meaningful impact." – Bobbie Stempfley, Vice President and Business Unit Security Officer,
Dell Technologies

Action Items for Cyber Leaders

The road to secure, scalable AI isn’t just a technology problem, it’s an organizational one. To move
forward safely, cybersecurity and IT leaders can take steps including:

• Assert joint ownership of AI security architecture. Integrate CAIO efforts with enterprise
security teams from day one – not after a tool is deployed
• Advance zero trust principles into AI deployments. AI tools must meet the same access
control, segmentation, and continuous verification standards as other digital assets
• Push for infrastructure modernization as a security imperative. Cyber risk multiplies when
outdated systems are forced to host next-gen tools. Modernizing backend environments isn’t just
about performance – it’s about protection
• Invest in AI-specific workforce training. Threat modeling, red teaming, and AI system auditing
require specialized skills that most cyber teams don’t yet have
• Close governance gaps with transparent workflows. Use standardized pipelines and approval
gates for AI tool development, deployment, and updates

The AI opportunity is real. Hardened infrastructure and security-first execution will deliver against this
once-in-a-generation opportunity and deliver real mission impact.

Read MeriTalk’s full 2025 Tech Tonic: Federal CAIO Forecast

About the Author

The voice of tomorrow’s government today, MeriTalk is government IT’s top
digital platform. Our award-winning editorial team and world-class events
and research staff produce unmatched news, analysis, and insight. The
goal: more efficient, responsive, and citizen-centric government. MeriTalk
connects with an audience of 160,000 Federal community contacts. For more information, visit
www.meritalk.com or follow us on X, @MeriTalk. MeriTalk is a 300Brand organization.

203