Chris Snyder

About Chris Snyder

At the helm of WSU\'s Industry and Defense Programs IT and Cybersecurity division, my tenure has been marked by a steadfast commitment to safeguarding our cutting-edge research through rigorous security standards. With a CISSP certification and extensive expertise in cybersecurity, my leadership has fortified protection for over 1,600 employees and 22 research labs, ensuring robust compliance with NIST 800-171 and CMMC guidelines.I was responsible for creating the university\'s first-ever DCSA-approved NIST 800-53 RMF ATO package. This included writing and compiling over 25 policies, procedures, and forms, and responding to over 1,600 assessment procedures within EMASS.The core of my mission is to advance WSU\'s industry and defense programs by leveraging my background in organizational change management and cyber defense. This dedication to excellence is reflected in our team\'s achievements, from enhancing SOC and cyber defense capabilities to driving strategic cybersecurity research and development initiatives. Our collective efforts contribute significantly to the university\'s reputation as a secure and innovative research hub.

Experience

1. Director of Information Technology and Cybersecurity

   Wsu Industry And Defense Programs

   Oct 2021 — Present · Wichita, KS, US

   I lead a dynamic team of IT and cybersecurity professionals supporting over 1,600 employees across 22 distinct research labs and technology centers. My focus is on ensuring the seamless delivery of IT services and maintaining top-tier security standards for our cutting-edge research initiatives.Key responsibilities include:NIST 800-53 RMF ATO Package: Led the development of the university\'s first-ever DCSA-approved NIST 800-53 RMF ATO package, creating over 25 policies, procedures, and forms, and responding to over 1,600 assessment procedures within EMASS.NIST 800-171 Compliance: Spearhead the university\'s compliance efforts for the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), adhering to the rigorous NIST 800-171 standards to protect sensitive research data and maintain robust security controls.Strategic Leadership: Provide strategic vision and leadership for IT and cybersecurity operations, driving innovation, efficiency, and security across all programs. Work collaboratively with research teams, university leadership, and external partners to deliver secure, scalable, and sustainable solutions.Team Development: Mentor and manage a diverse team of IT and cybersecurity professionals, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence in service delivery.My goal is to continue advancing our university\'s reputation as a leader in industry and defense research while upholding the highest standards of information security and compliance.

Education

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General

  1993 — 1995

• Wichita State University

  Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering

  1989 — 1992

• National Defense University

  Chief Information Officer Certificate

  2014 — 2017

• Wichita State University

  Computer Science

  1998 — 2001

• Webster University

  Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)

  2006 — 2010

Skills

• Force Protection
• U.s. Department of Defense
• Information Assurance
• Command
• Military Experience
• Operational Planning
• Cyber Defense
• Security Clearance
• Defense
• Cyber
• Computer Security
• Military
• Security
• Top Secret
• Weapons
• Program Management
• Air Force
• Dod
• National Security
• Microsoft Office
• Leadership
• Military Operations