Glendon Schmitz, CISSP, is the chief information security officer for the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
“He is responsible for ensuring the safety of health information for patients across 12 state-run hospitals that provide mental health and disability care.”
MOSELEY, VA, January 31, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ — Glendon Schmitz, CISSP, has been included in Marquis Who’s Who. As in all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Mr. Schmitz has established a distinguished career in the field of information security, currently serving as the chief information security officer for the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services since 2020. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing information security and cybersecurity, ensuring the safety of health information for patients across 12 state-run hospitals that provide mental health and disability care. His duties include compliance with HIPAA regulations, focusing on protecting sensitive patient data.
Prior to his current position, Mr. Schmitz was the assistant vice president and cybersecurity program manager at Northrim Bank from 2018 to 2020. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in enhancing the bank’s cybersecurity framework by implementing robust risk management strategies to safeguard financial data. His expertise in cybersecurity was further honed during his time with the United States Air Force, where he served as the director of cyber defense from 2016 until 2018. Previously, he held the position of senior manager of network operations between 2006 and 2016, demonstrating his leadership capabilities in managing complex network systems.
Mr. Schmitz’s 24-year military career is marked by a series of progressive roles, beginning as an airman basic and culminating as a senior master sergeant. His extensive experience in the armed forces provided him with a strong foundation in discipline and strategic thinking, which he has effectively applied to his civilian career. He is also actively involved in industry-related organizations, having served as the past president of the ISC2 South Central Alaska Chapter and committee co-lead for the Anchorage Technology Forum.
In addition to his professional achievements, Mr. Schmitz is recognized for his contributions to public speaking within the cybersecurity community. He has been selected as a speaker at prestigious conferences such as the RSA Conference and ISC2’s Security Congress, addressing topics such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing’s implications on cybersecurity. His ability to engage audiences and share insights on emerging security challenges underscores his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field.
Providing Mr. Schmitz with the technical expertise necessary for success in information security roles was his academic background. He earned an associate degree in electronic systems technology from the Community College of the Air Force in 2005, followed by a bachelor’s degree in information technology management from Trident University International, completed in 2018. Additionally, he holds the Certified Information Systems Security Professional certification from ISC2, further validating his proficiency in cybersecurity.
Mr. Schmitz attributes his accomplishments to the extensive support from his leaders and the dedicated teams he has led. His ability to translate an organization’s vision into clear objectives and tactical plans has been crucial for achieving goals. The greatest contributors to his and his team’s success have been his leadership and engagement style.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Mr. Schmitz is deeply involved in civic activities. He serves as the chairperson of the board for Tech for Troops. He also acts as an adviser for Shenandoah University’s Engineering Leadership program and contributes as a pit crew boss for a marching band. His publication “Cyber Security Culture as a Strategic Asset,” featured in Cyber Security: A Peer-Reviewed Journal, Volume 7 Number 2, reflects his thought leadership in leveraging organizational culture to enhance cybersecurity measures.
Looking ahead, Mr. Schmitz remains dedicated to educating others about cybersecurity risks and solutions. He envisions publishing a book aimed at parents to help them navigate online safety for their children. Additionally, he aspires to work within a Fortune 100 company to further apply his skills in protecting business interests while continuing his passion for public speaking on cybersecurity issues.
About Marquis Who’s Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.
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