Dr. Jason Edwards is a distinguished cybersecurity leader, advisor, and educator with over 20 years of experience in the field. He holds a Doctorate in Management focusing on cybersecurity in regulated financial institutions. He has been instrumental in developing cybersecurity programs at various institutions, from undergraduate to graduate levels. His academic work has focused on shaping the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, creating comprehensive programs encompassing foundational knowledge, hands-on experience, and an industry-aligned curriculum. As an adjunct professor, Dr. Edwards has supported several universities, continually advancing their cybersecurity offerings to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital landscape. His expertise in education complements his extensive professional experience, making him a sought-after voice in cybersecurity training and development.
Professionally, Dr. Edwards has held prominent roles in major organizations, where he has been pivotal in advancing cybersecurity strategy, architecture, risk management, and compliance. His contributions include developing internal compliance processes, establishing cybersecurity frameworks, and leading global process improvements. He has collaborated closely with senior leadership and regulatory bodies, advising boards on security issues and helping organizations navigate complex cybersecurity challenges. His experience spans multiple industries, where his strategic and technical skills have brought resilience to critical systems and assets. As a thought leader, Dr. Edwards has optimized cybersecurity operations and influenced organizational culture, encouraging proactive approaches to cyber defense and instilling best practices in security management.
In addition to his corporate achievements, Dr. Edwards has a distinguished military background, having served extensively in the U.S. Army. His career in the military laid the foundation for his commitment to cybersecurity, where he was among the early leaders in developing and implementing cybersecurity practices. As a Combat Brigade Information Systems/Cybersecurity Officer, he led efforts to protect and secure sensitive military information systems, adapting swiftly to the challenges of cyber warfare. His service in Iraq earned him the Bronze Star, a commendation reflecting his dedication and significant contributions to national defense. This experience solidified his cybersecurity expertise under high-stakes conditions and shaped his commitment to protecting critical information and infrastructure.
Dr. Edwards is also a prolific author, having published various influential books on cybersecurity that serve as essential resources for professionals, educators, and even young learners. His works include The Comprehensive Guide to Cybersecurity Careers: A Professional’s Roadmap for the Digital Security Age, The Cybersecurity Guide to Governance, Risk, and Compliance, and A Comprehensive Guide to the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0. Each book reflects his commitment to advancing cybersecurity knowledge across multiple domains, providing readers with strategic insights and practical tools for managing cyber risk. His writing extends to Critical Security Controls for Effective Cyber Defense: A Comprehensive Guide to CIS 18 Controls and The Comprehensive Guide to Cybersecurity Hiring: Strategies, Trends, and Best Practices, which are essential guides for organizations aiming to build strong cybersecurity teams. His dedication to fostering cybersecurity awareness and knowledge also led him to write Darwin the Cyber Beagle: Bytes and Barks in Cyberspace, a children’s book that teaches cyber safety in a fun and engaging way.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Edwards is a devoted family man. He is married to his wife, Selda, with whom he shares a deep commitment to family values and community. They have four children: Michelle, Chris, Ceylin, and Mayra. His family is a source of inspiration and strength, and they share a mutual interest in exploring technology and fostering a safe digital environment. With his children, Dr. Edwards is passionate about instilling cyber awareness from a young age, encouraging them to be mindful digital citizens in an increasingly interconnected world. His book for young readers was partly inspired by his desire to share essential cyber safety lessons with his children and others in their generation.
With his extensive experience, dedication to education, and passion for cybersecurity, Dr. Jason Edwards continues to impact the field profoundly. His expertise and leadership have shaped cybersecurity programs and strategies across industries and inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in cybersecurity. He remains committed to empowering others to navigate cybersecurity with confidence and integrity through his books, teaching, and professional engagements.
Oh, and I love Legos!