The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) has selected Robert W. Powell as the Senior Advisor for Cybersecurity. This is a key advisory position that provides technical guidance on information technology security and reports directly to the agency’s chief information officer. Powell starts his new role on January 24, 2016. Prior to this role, he served in the position of Security
Services Oversight and Planning Lead for OCIO’s IT Security Division. Powell also led the joint-cyber initiative between NASA and Department of Homeland Security which leverages non-signature based technologies for threat prediction and detection. Powell has a lengthy and accomplished career as a cyber-professional and technology executive. Prior to joining NASA’s OCIO, he led the vision and establishment of the Department of Defense (DoD) Cyber Information Assurance Range which is a component of the President¹s Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative. Powell has also spent time working with Silicon Valley startups focused on network virtualization and cyber-attack simulation.
Throughout Powell’s career, he has demonstrated an ability to lead complex technology programs, foster collaboration amongst cyber professionals, and execute initiatives with passion, energy, and tenacity.
Powell is a Summa Cum Laude graduate from Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia. He is a runner-up recipient of NSA’s Frank B. Rowlett Award, and holds numerous industry certifications in cybersecurity.