The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has tapped former agency executive director Joel Thacker to lead its new Office of Cybersecurity. Thacker most recently served as Carmel’s fire chief. He previously led the state agency as executive director and also served as Indiana state fire marshal and director of the state’s Fire and Building Safety Division.
The Office of Cybersecurity was established under the governor’s Executive Order 26-19 to coordinate cybersecurity preparedness and response across the state. It replaces the Indiana Executive Council on Cybersecurity, which ceased operations July 1 at the end of its mandate.
In his new role, Thacker will coordinate with public- and private-sector partners, including critical infrastructure operators and higher education institutions, to prepare for, prevent and recover from cybersecurity incidents. He will work with the Indiana State Police, Indiana National Guard and Indiana Office of Technology to continue efforts begun by the council, which was formed in 2016.
The office will also maintain the existing Indiana Cybersecurity Hub, an online resource offering cybersecurity guidance and tools for government agencies, businesses and other organizations. Thacker will also advise the governor and Indiana General Assembly on cybersecurity policy.
Photo courtesy of the State of Indiana Department of Homeland Security
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