Big Data refers to the growth of data sets that have become so large that they defy the ability of conventional forms of information technology to store, manage, analyze and gather important insights from them.

FORBES: Big Bets On Big Data

The IT commission was assembled to present Gilmore with "Investing in the Future: Toward a 21st Century Information Technology Workforce, " a report that examines the ability of the state's IT industry to acquire and develop trained workers.

CNN: Va. Gov. Gilmore announces technology internship program

"Failure to do so will irreversibly undermine the NSA and its ability to perform in a transformed global information technology arena, " said the Committee.

BBC: US losing hi-tech spying race