LAURA L. HILL
Department Chair, Information Technology
Garden City,ID
Summary
Innovative leader specializing in technology strategy and operational improvement. Drove AI training initiatives and modernized cybersecurity practices, enhancing workforce readiness. Skilled in stakeholder alignment and governance, facilitating organizational transformation while promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
Overview
44
44
years of professional experience
4
4
Certification
Work History
Department Chair, Information Technology & Cybersecurity
College of Western Idaho
Boise
01.2025 - Current
- Leading development of Idaho’s first statewide AI CTE standards, designed for national adoption through Idaho State University and ACT–IAC.
- Overseeing a major upgrade to the college’s AI program, aligning curriculum with industry needs, responsible AI practices, and emerging workforce demands.
- Modernized curriculum by integrating AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies to meet industry standards.
- Lead academic programs in IT, cybersecurity, and computer science, advancing Idaho’s technology workforce and AI readiness.
- Coached CWI students to win five gold, three silver, and three bronze medals at State of Idaho SkillsUSA, qualifying for Nationals.
- Strengthened faculty capability through governance improvements and targeted professional development training.
Chief Information Officer (SES)
USDA Forest Service
Washington
01.2021 - 01.2025
- Led enterprise IT strategy, modernization, cybersecurity, and operations for a 30,000-person national organization.
- Secured $10.2M for HR modernization, Wildland Fire training curriculum and supporting infrastructure and advanced multiple Technology Modernization Fund proposals.
- Completed 100% Cyber Security Authority to Operate (ATO) for first time in agency history, reducing timelines from 12 months to 60–90 days.
- Eliminated duplicative IT spending by $2–3M through governance reform, FITARA alignment, and employee retraining.
- Increased cybersecurity certifications by 85% and reskilled staff in cloud, program management, and customer engagement.
- Reduced critical POAMs by over 46 in three months and achieved USDA’s highest A-123 audit scores by reskilling workforce and modernizing IT infrastructure and cybersecurity, enhancing compliance, readiness, and operational resilience.
- Designed and launched the first USDA AI training cohort, preparing employees for AI-enabled operations.
- Authored USDA’s first AI training modules and governance model, later used to teach AI fundamentals and safety at Idaho State University’s STEM camp 2024.
- Advanced automation, data intelligence, and AI-enabled decision systems across mission areas while expanding upskilling and reskilling programs to prepare the workforce for emerging technologies, including AI, cloud services, and modern IT operations, ensuring employees remained relevant and mission-ready.
- 2025 Federal Top 100 Innovation Award recipient for AI-driven wildland fire training and modernization.
- Modernized Gray Towers, NRE Forest Service’s premier training center, deploying state-of-the-art virtual training technologies as part of the long-range technology strategy, strengthening enterprise architecture, cybersecurity, and operations while expanding Forest Service training worldwide.
- First female CIO; led a 560-person virtual workforce, transforming culture through communication, engagement, and professional development.
- Strengthened DEIA by expanding targeted hiring and direct-hire pathways, establishing USDA’s first Wounded Veterans Hiring and Retraining Program, and launching new Military Spouse Hiring initiatives and training to broaden access to underserved and underrepresented talent.
Associate Chief Information Security Officer (ACISO)
USDA Forest Service
Washington
01.2015 - 01.2021
- Led response to major PII breach, coordinating congressional notifications and ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
- Led Forest Service response to the SolarWinds cyber incident, shaping new federal standards.
- Co-led establishment of USDA’s first consolidated Secure Operations Center (SOC), infusing new technologies and training staff to strengthen cybersecurity posture.
- Eliminated 1,231 unsanctioned devices through governance and automation, enhancing overall network security.
- Implemented a 'comply-to-connect' model that reduced Shadow IT.
- Reduced ATO timelines from 12 months to 60–90 days by introducing 5-day bootcamps and automated training, improving workforce proficiency, compliance, and adaptability to new technologies.
- Reduced enterprise cybersecurity risks from 167 to 7 in one year through IT enterprise system modernization and training efforts.
- Selected for USDA/OCIO SES CIO/CISO leadership program; earned OMB Senior Executive Service (SES) certification.
Secretarial appointee, Advisory Committee
Department of Veterans Affairs
01.2012 - 01.2019
- Advocated for Bosnia conflict servicemembers and combat veterans in government capacity.
- Implemented mental and physical health policy reforms, achieving congressional approval.
- Modernized disability pathways and expanded trauma-informed care for Bosnia veterans.
- Enhanced retraining transition and post-service employment programs for separating servicemembers.
- Promoted economic mobility, reducing long-term underemployment among Bosnia veterans.
- Collaborated with VA, DOD, VSOs, and congressional stakeholders to drive systemic change.
- Executed strategic advocacy efforts to secure recognition and care for overlooked Bosnia veterans.
- Developed innovative strategies to improve team efficiency and operational outcomes.
Acting Assistant Director, Strategic Planning, Information Management & Architecture
USDA Forest Service
Washington
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Managed $450M IR portfolio and $250M CIO operating budget, ensuring alignment with FITARA mandates to support strategic objectives.
- Raised OMB-reported Development, Modernization, and Enhancement (DME) investments from 5% to 11% by implementing improved governance and reporting structures.
- Developed national FAC-P/PM training and certification program, facilitating adoption across USDA to enhance project management capabilities.
Strategic Planner, Fire & Aviation Management (FAM)
USDA Forest Service
Washington
01.2011 - 01.2015
- Authored five-year FAM IT strategic plan, promoting cloud adoption and interoperability to support fire and aviation management initiatives.
- Co-created FIRENET.gov, secure cloud collaboration platform for federal, state, and local incident teams, improving coordination during incidents.
- Architected first interagency Wildland Fire IT governance structure to enhance shared services and training between USDA and DOI.
- Acted as the technical SME and curriculum developer for the next-generation Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system now deployed nationwide.
Branch Chief (GS-2210-14)
USDA Forest Service
Boise
01.2009 - 01.2011
- Spearheaded pilot for virtual innovation lab, promoting low-cost testing in secure environments.
- Established partnerships with CIOs and business unit leads to enhance support for IT initiatives.
- Guided procurement of secure mobile satellite technology, improving real-time data access for critical operations.
- Contributed expertise to development and execution of five-year IT strategic plan.
- Implemented governance structure to monitor fire IT investments, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
- Acted as technical writer and subject matter expert for RFP addressing legacy dispatch system security issues.
- Authored articles in trade journals on innovative fire IT initiatives for wildland operations.
Enterprise IT Infrastructure Manager (GS-2210-14)
Idaho CIO Office
Boise
01.2008 - 01.2009
- Facilitated statewide telecommunications modernization, enhancing Idaho’s WAN infrastructure and emergency response capabilities.
- Oversaw network planning, maintenance, and supervision of five engineers for operational effectiveness.
- Co-led engineering transformation of Idaho’s primary network, streamlining support processes and upgrading infrastructure.
- Designed contracts for advanced education and government communications network with Idaho Department of Education.
- Secured federal matching funds for Idaho Education Network through successful e-rate grant applications.
- Collaborated with Meridian School District experts to navigate federal funding requirements for educational technology sustainability.
- Received recognition for leading IT modernization efforts across the organization.
- Earned commendation for managing complex projects and achieving mission goals.
Service and Support Manager
Cisco Systems
Herndon
12.2004 - 12.2007
- Transformed underperforming IT services contract and 12-person team into multi-million-dollar strategic partnership.
- Positioned Cisco as a trusted engineering partner, supporting federal law enforcement operations and mandates.
- Gained recognition from Cisco leadership for performance and negotiation skills that advanced objectives.
- Influenced telecommunications policy via briefings with Cisco affairs, engaging six senators to advocate changes.
Deputy, Global Data Secure Network Services
DISA
Arlington
01.2003 - 01.2004
- Directed modernization of Department of Defense secure global communications ecosystem, upgrading legacy systems to next-generation platforms for worldwide operations.
- Redesigned cybersecurity governance for authority to operate reviews, establishing streamlined risk-based policies that accelerated approvals and enhanced oversight.
- Transformed secure voice readiness program by standardizing training and procedures, enhancing reliability and operational continuity.
- Provided senior technical leadership for secure voice capabilities upgrade, advising on integration and modernization strategies to enhance classified communications.
- Led cross-agency teams in modernizing global secure video services, improving performance and cybersecurity posture for executive communications.
- Strengthened enterprise cyber risk management by aligning authority to operate processes with threat landscapes, enabling faster deployment of secure technologies.
- Oversaw modernization initiatives for sensitive communications, supporting government officials while ensuring compliance with federal cybersecurity standards.
- Championed process optimization, reducing cycle times for secure communications provisioning and enhancing service reliability for operational units.
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.)
U.S. Army Signal Corps
01.1982 - 01.2004
- Prepared and led signal battalion to Bosnia, establishing communications support for over 60,000 deployed forces.
- Directed global secure communications operations, integrating emerging technologies to improve national readiness.
- Led engineering teams for federal missions, developing resilient technologies that enhanced network security.
- Introduced first virtual training capabilities for American universities, ensuring educational continuity for deployed service members.
Commander
Washington Area Communications Command
White House
01.2002 - 01.2003
- Modernized White House IT enterprise post-9/11, enhancing secure capabilities for presidential operations.
- Upgraded enterprise VoIP, Air Force One, and Situation Room systems alongside classified networks.
- Updated training programs for new servicemembers in White House communications to clarify roles and IT support.
- Ensured understanding of White House policies and procedures among new communications personnel.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Chief Information Officer Executive Training
American University
Washington, DC01-2020
Master of Arts - Education
University of St. Mary
Leavenworth, KS01-1998
Command and General Staff College -
Fort Levenworth, Officer Training Center
Fort Leavenworth, KS01-1991
Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education
Idaho State University
Pocatello, ID01-1983
Some College (No Degree) - Information And Communication Technology
Fort Gordon Signal School
Fort Gordon GASome College (No Degree) - Information Technology Senior Leadership
Harvard University
Cambridge, MASome College (No Degree) - Information Technology Senior Leader Training
American University
Washington, DCSkills
- Cybersecurity leadership
- Incident response
- Risk management
- FITARA compliance
- Automation and integrated delivery
- Enterprise architecture
- AI strategy
- C-suite advisory
- Financial management
- Workforce development
- Curriculum development
- Stakeholder governance
- DEIA leadership
- ADA compliance
Certification
- OMB SES QRB Certification, 01/01/20
- Project Management Certification, Cornell University, 01/01/19
- Certified Information Security Manager, 01/01/18
- USDA Leadership Fellows Information Technology Training, 01/01/15
- Harvard Senior Executive Leader Training, 01/01/14
- Cisco: Program and Project Management Training, 01/01/08
- Cisco: Senior Management II Course, 01/01/08 to 01/01/09
- Cisco: Emerging Leadership Course, 01/01/06
- ITIL Fundamentals Certification, 01/01/05
- Government Contracting Officer’s Representative, 01/01/00
- Command and General Staff College, 01/01/91
- Combined Arms Services Staff Officer Course, 01/01/89
Awards and Honors
- Legion of Merit
- Joint Service Achievement Medal
- Joint Service Commendation Medal
- Presidential Service Certificate
- Defense Meritorious Service Medal
- Meritorious Service Medal (2)
- Army Commendation Medal (4)
- Army Achievement Medal (6)
- Idaho State University Presidents Award 2025
- Federal 100 Innovation Award Winner 2025
- USDA: Federal Tech Day, Best Booth Award 2023
- Numerous Performance Awards 2009–2025
- Idaho State University, Alumna of the Year, Department of Education, 2017
- White House Presidential Badge
- Chief of Staff, Office of the White House, Letter of Recognition
- Executive Director, American Red Cross, Letter of Appreciation
- DISA Letter of Recognition
- Cisco: Delivery Manager, Connected Team Award, National Programs, FBI, 2007
- Cisco: Advanced Services Area Support Manager of the Year, 2005
- Cisco: Government Services and Support Manager of the Year, 2004
- Fort Gordon 1989 Boss of the Year
Core Capabilities
- Technology Strategy & Enterprise Architecture
- AI Strategy, Responsible AI & Workforce Development
- Techno-Business Partnership & C-Suite Advisory
- AI-Enabled Modernization & Automation
- Integrated Delivery & Operational Excellence
- Cybersecurity Leadership & Risk Management
- Organizational Transformation & DEIA Leadership
- Strategic Communication & Stakeholder Alignment
- Governance, FITARA, Portfolio & Financial Management
- Crisis Leadership & Incident Response
- Curriculum Development and ADA Compliance
Timeline
Department Chair, Information Technology & Cybersecurity
College of Western Idaho
01.2025 - Current
Chief Information Officer (SES)
USDA Forest Service
01.2021 - 01.2025
Associate Chief Information Security Officer (ACISO)
USDA Forest Service
01.2015 - 01.2021
Acting Assistant Director, Strategic Planning, Information Management & Architecture
USDA Forest Service
01.2014 - 01.2015
Secretarial appointee, Advisory Committee
Department of Veterans Affairs
01.2012 - 01.2019
Strategic Planner, Fire & Aviation Management (FAM)
USDA Forest Service
01.2011 - 01.2015
Branch Chief (GS-2210-14)
USDA Forest Service
01.2009 - 01.2011
Enterprise IT Infrastructure Manager (GS-2210-14)
Idaho CIO Office
01.2008 - 01.2009
Service and Support Manager
Cisco Systems
12.2004 - 12.2007
Deputy, Global Data Secure Network Services
DISA
01.2003 - 01.2004
Commander
Washington Area Communications Command
01.2002 - 01.2003
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.)
U.S. Army Signal Corps
01.1982 - 01.2004
Some College (No Degree) - Chief Information Officer Executive Training
American University
Master of Arts - Education
University of St. Mary
Command and General Staff College -
Fort Levenworth, Officer Training Center
Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education
Idaho State University
Some College (No Degree) - Information And Communication Technology
Fort Gordon Signal School
Some College (No Degree) - Information Technology Senior Leadership
Harvard University
Some College (No Degree) - Information Technology Senior Leader Training
American University