Michael Walters

Michael Walters is the Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at Washington State University, where he drives strategic initiatives to protect and enhance the university’s information security posture.

Joining WSU in 2013 as ITS Manager for Voice and Data Systems, Michael quickly demonstrated his leadership and technical expertise. In 2015, after earning his M.S. in Information Security Assurance, he transitioned to the Information Security Services team as Manager of Security Operations. In this role, Michael was instrumental in building a “best-in-class” security operations team, significantly reducing security incidents and enhancing the university’s cybersecurity infrastructure. His exceptional performance led to his promotion to Deputy CISO, and in July 2022, he assumed his current position as CISO.

Michael’s prior experience includes a distinguished 20-year career in the U.S. Navy, where he held various information security and technology management positions. His military service provided a solid foundation for his expertise in cybersecurity and leadership. Michael holds multiple industry-recognized IT and security certifications, a B.S. in Physics and Mathematics from and an M.S. in Information Security Assurance.

Known for his strategic vision and ability to implement robust security frameworks, Michael continues to advance WSU’s information security initiatives, ensuring the university remains at the forefront of cybersecurity excellence.