Originally published by Southern Company

During a recent roundtable discussion at the White House on the state of cybersecurity in the Black community, Curley Henry, Southern Company's vice president and deputy chief information security officer, was among the distinguished Black cybersecurity leaders invited to participate.

The event was held in recognition of Black History Month and aimed to address issues such as access to good-paying jobs, economic security and growing small disadvantaged businesses in Black communities.

“The invitation to participate in this roundtable was quite an honor,” Henry said. “It aligns with the meaningful work Southern Company and the Technology Organization are doing every day to improve diversity, equity and inclusion outcomes across our footprint.”

Henry shared insights on enhancing security and economic prosperity in cyberspace and creating more pathways to good-paying cyber and tech jobs for underrepresented communities.

The event also included briefings on cybersecurity workforce issues, methods to address cyber risks and advocacy tactics to support policymaking. Additionally, approximately $90 million in funding to support cybersecurity and other critical industry-related apprenticeships for underrepresented groups was also announced.

“The open dialogue between peers across multiple sectors resonated that there is concern around this topic,” Henry said. “With support of this administration, I am hopeful that progress will be made.”

Find out more about the roundtable.

Southern Company

Southern Company

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy distribution company with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture and hiring practices have earned the company national awards and recognition from numerous organizations, including Forbes, The Military Times, DiversityInc, Black Enterprise, J.D. Power, Fortune, Human Rights Campaign and more. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com.

More from Southern Company