Ex-Navy Cyber Leader to Head New Texas Cyber Command

On Tuesday, Governor Greg Abbott announced that retired U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Timothy James “TJ” White, who previously commanded the U.S. Cyber Command, will take the helm of Texas’ newly established Cyber Command.

Abbott stated that White’s appointment arrives during a period when Texas is experiencing “thousands of cyberattacks every single second,” with many originating from adversarial countries such as China, Russia, and Iran. “Texas requires skilled cybersecurity professionals to spearhead our battle against these threats,” Abbott stated. “Admiral White and the Texas Cyber Command will play a crucial role in safeguarding against cyber threats to ensure the safety of Texans.”

Earlier this year, the Texas Legislature established the agency at the request of Abbott, positioning it under the University of Texas System and headquartered at the University of Texas at San Antonio. The organization focuses on responding to cybersecurity threats, managing incidents, conducting forensics, and providing training. White will serve in their position until February 1, 2027.

White, a resident of Boerne and the owner of One Network Connection LLC, an Austin-based cybersecurity firm, boasts nearly forty years of military experience. Before retiring in 2020, he held leadership positions at the U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, the U.S. 10th Fleet, the Navy Space Command, and the U.S. National Cyber Mission Force.

“Texas public entities present enticing opportunities for cyber threat actors employing ever more advanced tactics, techniques, and procedures,” cautions the State of Texas Cybersecurity Strategic Plan 2024–2029. A recent report from the Department of Information Resources highlights that the state's increasing dependence on digital systems heightens its susceptibility.

State agencies are requesting billions of dollars in funding to address the pressing cybersecurity needs. Abbott positioned the establishment of the Texas Cyber Command as a direct reaction to that increase.

Lawmakers behind the bill that created the command expressed their approval of the appointment. Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, R-Southlake, and Sen. Tan Parker, R-Flower Mound, emphasized the necessity for Texas to establish a dedicated entity to outpace cybercriminals.

Until September 1, the Department of Information Resources was responsible for managing state cybersecurity, in addition to handling tasks such as website management, IT procurement, and data oversight. The latest directive now assumes the primary role of safeguarding essential infrastructure and equipping public organizations to handle security breaches effectively.

White emphasized that his priority will be enhancing resilience throughout state networks. “The dangers are genuine, ongoing, and changing,” he stated. “Texas has taken a significant step to safeguard our residents and organizations.”

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