GovExec TV: Five Questions with Ryan Zacha

In this episode of GovExec TV, we sit down with Ryan Zacha, Principal Solutions Architect at Booz Allen, to discuss the key challenges and strategies around implementing zero trust (ZT) cybersecurity frameworks for federal agencies, in light of the July 10 OMB/ONCD memo on cybersecurity priorities for the FY26 budget. Discover how agencies should approach developing implementation plans based on the CISA ZT maturity model’s five pillars, ensuring they meet target maturity levels by the end of FY26.

Ryan Zacha addresses common obstacles faced during the transition to zero trust, including overcoming legacy systems and cultural resistance, and discusses the vital role of identity verification and best practices for identity management. The conversation also highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and analytics in a ZT framework, as well as considerations when choosing between greenfield versus brownfield ZT implementations.

Lastly, Ryan Zacha will dive into the essential technologies and solutions needed to support zero trust architectures, and how federal systems integrators can leverage existing talent while tapping into non-traditional applicants to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

To learn more about Booz Allen's work with Zero Trust, visit www.boozallen.com/zerotrust.