Tyson Christopher Smith
Tyson Smith is a highly accomplished Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE) with over 20 years of experience supporting the U.S. Federal Government, including critical cybersecurity work in support of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) since 2016. Based in Manassas, Virginia, he holds a TS/SCI clearance with Full Scope Polygraph and brings deep expertise in security engineering, risk management, and federal compliance frameworks.
A United States Navy veteran honorably discharged after distinguished service aboard the USS Whidbey Island (LSD-41), Mr. Smith transitioned his military experience in force protection, security operations, and mission readiness into a successful civilian career in IT and cybersecurity. His Navy service included a seven-month deployment to the Middle East in 2004 during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, where he worked alongside Special Operations teams (SEALs and USMC) to ensure mission success and personnel safety.
Since 2016, Mr. Smith has supported the CIA and Intelligence Community (IC) through roles that span both engineering and security control assessment. He has extensive experience with ICD-503, the Risk Management Framework (RMF), and NIST 800-53 compliance, enabling him to ensure that classified systems are accredited, hardened, and continuously monitored. His work has included the review and development of System Security Plans (SSPs), Mission System Security Plans (MSSPs), and Authorization to Operate (ATO) packages, as well as vulnerability assessments and STIG compliance.
His professional experience spans both defense contractors and consulting firms, including VTG Defense, Arcfield, Bespoke Technologies, Atlus Consulting, CACI, Booz Allen Hamilton, Harris IT Services, and ManTech International. Across these organizations, he has consistently delivered mission-critical security solutions while guiding system owners through A&A processes, risk assessments, and the integration of cybersecurity into enterprise IT operations.
Mr. Smith’s career is marked by his ability to bridge technical expertise with strong leadership and problem-solving skills. He has been instrumental in training, mentoring, and developing best practices within multidisciplinary teams, ensuring that both security and operational goals are achieved.
Education & Certifications
M.S. Applied Information Technology (Intelligence Technologies) – George Mason University
B.A. Visual Technologies (Graphic Design) – George Mason University
Certifications: CISSP, Security+, A+ w/ CE
Military Awards
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Good Conduct Medal
Expert Marksmanship Medals (Pistol & Rifle)
Sea Service Ribbon