Defense Launches IT Exchange Pilot

The Defense Department is launching a pilot program that enables components to temporarily exchange information technology workers with the private sector.

The IT Exchange Program, which was established by the fiscal 2010 Defense Authorization Act, allows for the temporary detail of Defense and private sector IT employees to participate in an exchange between the two sectors. The pilot is not a one-for-one exchange of personnel, but rather an opportunity for the exchange of knowledge, experience and skills between Defense and the private sector, Defense said.

Defense components can participate in the program by sending employees on details to the private sector, accepting employees from the private sector, or by simultaneously exchanging both Defense and private sector employees. The details will last for at least three months and up to one year, although they can be extended in three-month increments for one additional year. The exchanges must commence by Sept. 30, 2013.

The pilot also can be used to boost the skills of Defense cybersecurity workforce, Defense noted. Legislation proposed by the Obama administration in May would authorize other federal agencies like the Homeland Security Department to temporarily exchange cyber workers with the private sector.

"The ITEP pilot provides a unique opportunity for DoD components and private sector organizations to share best practices, gain a better understanding of each other's information technology practices and challenges and partner to address these challenges," the ITEP website states.