Steven Hernandez is an information assurance executive with over twenty years of experience across diverse sectors, including law enforcement, finance, education, healthcare, credentialing, heavy manufacturing, non-profits, and government at all levels. His expertise spans strategic leadership and tactical security operations, notably leading the U.S. government's Zero Trust Architecture initiative. Currently, Steven serves as the Chief Information Security Officer and Director of Information Assurance Services at the U.S. Department of Education. He also co-chairs the Federal CISO Council and is the Government Chair of the ACT-IAC Cybersecurity Community of Interest. Previously, Steven held key roles at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, including CTO, CIO, CISO, Senior Official for Privacy, and Chief Services Engineering Officer. An inaugural member of the United States Scholarship for Service Hall of Fame, he is dedicated to fostering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals as an Honorary Professor, Affiliate Faculty, and guest lecturer at numerous institutions.