Christopher Wlaschin is a nationally recognized cybersecurity executive whose career spans more than three decades of military service, government leadership, and private sector innovation. Throughout his journey, Chris has remained steadfast in his commitment to safeguarding critical systems, protecting sensitive data, and advancing the cause of trust in technology. His professional story is one of resilience, vision, and impact, underscored by a passion for building stronger organizations and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Chris most recently served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Election Systems & Software (ES&S), where for over seven years he has led enterprise-wide security programs. In this role, he has been responsible for safeguarding election infrastructure, strengthening operational defenses, and protecting the integrity of products relied upon by millions of voters. His leadership at ES&S has been pivotal in raising industry standards, building trust with stakeholders, and addressing some of the most complex security challenges facing democracy today.
Before joining ES&S, Chris served as Chief Information Security Officer for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In that capacity, he directed cybersecurity operations for one of the largest federal agencies in the country, overseeing the protection of critical systems and sensitive health data affecting more than 300 million Americans. His work at HHS was marked by a forward-looking approach to risk management and the development of policies that continue to shape government cybersecurity practices.
Earlier in his career, Chris held senior leadership roles across both government and private industry. He served as Senior Director of Information Security at NRC Health, where he advanced protections for patient and healthcare data, and as CISO for the University of Nebraska System, where he strengthened cybersecurity posture across a large educational institution. In the Department of Veterans Affairs, he was Associate Deputy Assistant Secretary for Information Security and Risk Management, where he guided initiatives that improved resilience and security for millions of veterans and their families. Each of these roles reinforced his ability to align strategy, governance, and technology in highly complex environments.
Chris’s distinguished career began with over twenty years of service in the United States Navy, where he rose to senior leadership positions in information technology, operations, and communications. From his time as Chief Information Systems Officer aboard the USS John C. Stennis to his work as an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado–Boulder, Chris honed his ability to lead diverse teams, drive innovation, and make decisions under pressure. His naval service instilled in him not only technical acumen but also a deep appreciation for integrity, discipline, and service to a mission greater than oneself.
His influence extends beyond organizational boundaries into broader industry leadership. Chris is the past Chair of the Election Industry Subsector Coordinating Council (EI-SCC), where he collaborated with federal, state, and local officials to enhance security and resilience across the election industry. He has also served as a Federal Advisory Board Emeritus Member for Dell/EMC, providing strategic counsel on cybersecurity and governance. These advisory experiences underscore his ability to connect industry, government, and technology communities in pursuit of stronger, more secure systems.
A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Chris has presented keynote addresses, participated in high-level panels, and contributed insights at some of the world’s most respected security conferences, including DEF CON and Black Hat. He has been featured in national media outlets such as CyberScoop, Nebraska Public Media, and industry blogs, where his expertise on election security and vulnerability disclosure programs has informed public debate and policy development. His presence in these forums highlights not only his technical credibility but also his ability to communicate complex issues with clarity and authority.
Chris’s career is anchored in a deep commitment to cybersecurity governance, data privacy, and infrastructure protection. His expertise extends to disaster recovery and policy execution, areas where his leadership has consistently driven measurable improvements. Across every role, he has championed the principle that security is not merely a technical challenge but a business imperative that requires vision, accountability, and collaboration at the highest levels.
Education and lifelong learning have also shaped Chris’s professional journey. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Technology Education from Southern Illinois University and a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University. He also maintains a CISSP certification, underscoring his commitment to staying current with evolving industry standards. His combination of academic achievement, professional credentialing, and practical experience makes him a trusted advisor to boards and executive teams alike.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Chris values family, music, and the outdoors. A dedicated musician and lover of the performing arts, he also enjoys camping and skiing, pursuits that reflect his appreciation for balance, creativity, and resilience. These personal interests ground him and provide a broader perspective that enriches his professional leadership.
Chris is now focused on expanding his impact through board service, where his blend of executive leadership, cybersecurity expertise, and strategic insight can help organizations in technology, healthcare, defense, and education navigate today’s most pressing challenges. Having served in advisory roles for global corporations and industry councils, he brings not only knowledge but also a proven track record of helping organizations build trust, enhance resilience, and create long-term value. For Chris, serving on a board represents not only a professional opportunity but also a continuation of his lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and giving back.
Character:
Christopher Wlaschin exemplifies integrity, discipline, and accountability, values he cultivated through decades of military and executive service. His decisions consistently reflect a commitment to mission, ethics, and the long-term well-being of the organizations he serves. He is regarded as a trusted leader who inspires confidence through consistency and fairness.
Knowledge:
Chris brings an extraordinary depth of knowledge in cybersecurity, governance, and risk management developed through senior roles in government, healthcare, education, and technology. He combines technical expertise with policy insight, allowing him to bridge the gap between operational details and strategic objectives. His career-long dedication to learning ensures he remains a respected authority in a rapidly evolving field.
Strategic:
As a board advisor and executive, Chris is recognized for aligning security strategy with organizational goals to drive both resilience and growth. He has a proven ability to anticipate emerging risks and craft proactive approaches that create competitive advantage. His vision consistently helps organizations strengthen their foundations while positioning them for future success.
Communication:
Chris is a skilled communicator who translates complex technical issues into clear, actionable insights for executives, boards, and public audiences. His frequent keynote addresses, media appearances, and industry presentations demonstrate his ability to engage diverse stakeholders. Through clarity, empathy, and authority, he builds consensus and drives meaningful action.
