As acting director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Nicholas Andersen leads efforts to safeguard the nation’s critical infrastructure and strengthen resilience across government and industry.
But even during the summer months, the mission doesn’t slow down. With major events like Freedom 250 and the World Cup, Andersen will spend much of the season working alongside regional teams and partners to ensure security and continuity nationwide. Still, he’s carving out time to recharge, whether that’s stepping away with a good book or enjoying time with family on the Cape.
Andersen is the latest participant in WashingtonExec’s Summer Q&A Series, where we ask government leaders how they recharge, stay sharp and keep the mission moving during the year’s most relaxed season.
What’s your beach reading for the summer?
I’m usually reading a mix of national security, history, and something a little lighter when I can. This summer, I’m hoping to spend some time with a good history book and at least one novel that has nothing to do with cyber, infrastructure, or government.
Where are you traveling this summer for vacation? What’s your favorite location?
A lot of my travel this summer will involve visiting our regional teams and working with partners to help keep people safe and infrastructure secure during major events like Freedom 250 and the World Cup. On the personal side, I always enjoy getting to places where I can slow down and spend time with family, and the Cape is hard to beat for that.
What’s one personal and professional goal you’d like to accomplish this summer?
Personally, I’d like to be more intentional about carving out time with family and getting outside whenever possible. Professionally, my goal is to keep driving focus across CISA so that our efforts translate into real, measurable reduction of risk where it matters most for national security, public health and safety, defense critical infrastructure, and continuity of the economy.
Are there any new skills or knowledge you plan to develop during the summer?
I’m always trying to get smarter about how technology, infrastructure, and national security are changing around us. This summer, I want to keep digging into how artificial intelligence, operational technology, and digital concentration risk are reshaping the way we think about resilience, especially as we support large public events and the critical services behind them.
How do you stay connected with your team and maintain productivity during the summer season?
For me, it comes down to clarity, trust, and communication. Summer is a busy operational season for CISA, especially with our regional teams supporting major events and working directly with partners across the country, so it is important that people understand the priorities, stay connected to the mission, and still take the time they need to recharge.
