“If it’s illegal, immoral or unethical, don’t do it. Otherwise it’s on the table. Let’s get after it.”
John Matthew Felker is a distinguished national leader in cybersecurity, intelligence operations, and public administration with a professional journey that spans nearly five decades. Throughout his storied career, Felker has brought principled leadership, strategic insight, and operational excellence to both government and private-sector endeavors. His contributions have not only strengthened national security but also elevated the standards of public service, interagency cooperation, and cyber governance across multiple domains.
Felker began his career in the U.S. Coast Guard, where his hands-on approach to leadership became quickly evident. He commanded multiple vessels, oversaw international maritime operations, and led critical emergency responses, earning a reputation for excellence in high-pressure environments. His leadership extended beyond operational roles into organizational transformation—modernizing intelligence capabilities and standing up the Coast Guard’s first dedicated cybersecurity units. His early military service laid the foundation for a lifetime of leadership focused on mission readiness, ethical integrity, and technological advancement.
Transitioning from maritime security to national cybersecurity leadership, Felker took on roles of increasing complexity and responsibility. As Director of the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center (NCCIC) under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, he oversaw one of the most critical cyber coordination centers in the federal government. There, he led over 600 personnel with a $220 million budget, revitalizing a stagnating organization into a responsive, agile, and collaborative force in the fight against cyber threats. He developed and implemented new operational frameworks aligned with national strategy and reshaped the organization’s budget and resource allocation to maximize impact and transparency.
Felker’s impact deepened when he was appointed Assistant Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), where he spearheaded the creation of the Integrated Operations Division. This division, with over 650 personnel and a $170 million budget, unified cyber, physical, and communications operations into a 24/7 center of excellence. His leadership during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic ensured continuity of operations and rapid crisis response, all while laying the groundwork for enduring agency resilience. His work not only influenced federal capabilities but also established best practices for partnerships with state, local, tribal, territorial (SLTT) entities and the private sector.
Beyond government service, Felker brought his expertise to the private sector and nonprofit spheres, where he continues to lead and mentor. As President of Morse Alpha Associates, he provides strategic advisory services in cybersecurity leadership, risk governance, and organizational design. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board for TripleID, a pioneering AI security firm focused on trust and accountability. His work bridges the gap between innovation and ethics, ensuring that advanced technologies serve societal good rather than perpetuate harm.
Felker’s board and advisory roles underscore his far-reaching influence. From serving on the Strategic Advisory Board of Parsons Corporation and the Public Sector Advisory Board at Intel, to advising NetCentrics and Seebald Group International, his counsel is sought by leaders navigating the evolving cyber landscape. His insights have shaped public policy, driven technological innovation, and fortified critical infrastructure. As a senior fellow at Auburn University’s McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security, he contributed scholarly and practical perspectives to address national security challenges.
An accomplished communicator and public speaker, Felker has presented at top-tier forums including the FedScoop Digital Transformation Summit and the AUSA Cyber Pavilion. His thought leadership on automation, AI, legacy modernization, and cultural transformation within cybersecurity has informed senior decision-makers across sectors. He has authored numerous influential publications, including white papers and journal articles on strategic and operational cyber intelligence, and has been cited as an authority in both policy and academic circles.
John’s life work reflects a deep commitment to public service and a passion for empowering future generations. He volunteers for veterans’ organizations such as Operation Renewed Hope Foundation, helping break cycles of homelessness for those who served. He continues to coach, mentor, and advise young professionals and organizations alike—sharing lessons from a career grounded in integrity, resilience, and transformation. His contributions to veteran affairs, cybersecurity policy, and international cooperation illustrate a rare blend of personal conviction and professional gravitas.
His influence is global—having delivered Coast Guard training and operational support in over 60 countries. His work has contributed to international maritime law enforcement, diplomatic security cooperation, and multinational intelligence efforts. He also served as a liaison and leader in critical intergovernmental efforts during natural disasters, cyber incidents, and high-stakes law enforcement missions. Whether navigating bureaucratic labyrinths or standing a watch on stormy seas, Felker exemplifies courage, clarity, and commitment.
Through it all, John Felker remains mission-driven. He believes in the power of good governance, strategic foresight, and human connection. From commanding ships to shaping national cybersecurity strategy, from advising startups to chairing boards, his journey stands as a testament to what principled leadership can achieve in service to a safer and more secure world.
Character:
John Felker is guided by a steadfast ethical compass, ensuring that every decision he makes aligns with legality, morality, and integrity. He leads by example, modeling servant leadership and inspiring trust among peers, subordinates, and partners.
Knowledge: With nearly 50 years of multidisciplinary experience, John’s mastery spans cybersecurity, intelligence, leadership development, and international affairs. He continually adapts to emerging technologies and security paradigms, maintaining relevance and impact in every stage of his career.
Strategic:
John excels in transforming vision into action, whether restructuring government agencies or guiding AI startups through growth phases. His strategic acumen enables him to anticipate future trends and craft resilient, future-focused operational models.
Communication:
As a seasoned public speaker, policy advocate, and executive advisor, John articulates complex ideas with clarity and conviction. His collaborative style fosters alignment across diverse teams and stakeholders, driving meaningful outcomes through open dialogue.
