Laura I. Harder CISSP CIPM
VP of ISSA International, Cybersecurity Leader, Air Force Flight Commander, Northern Colorado ISSA President
As Featured On
What Laura Brings
Expertise & Impact
Cybersecurity
Laura I. Harder is a recognized cybersecurity expert with over two decades of experience securing global organizations, leading offensive cyber operations, and aligning security strategy with enterprise goals.
- 25+ years of service across Army & Air Force, including multiple command roles
- Led complex cyber teams across federal, private, and civilian sectors
- Vice President of ISSA International, guiding global cybersecurity collaboration
- Frequent speaker at universities and conferences on AI, cyber warfare, and tech ethics
- Mentor to transitioning veterans and women entering cybersecurity
- Advocate for neurodiversity in tech — inspired by personal experience raising neurodiverse children
Board Member
Laura I. Harder brings strategic insight to cybersecurity governance, advising boards on risk, compliance, and emerging threats like AI and digital espionage.
How To Guide Boards in Navigating Emerging Cyber ThreatsHow To Prepare The Boardroom for Nation State Cyber ThreatsSpeaker
Laura I. Harder delivers keynotes on cybersecurity leadership, AI-driven threats, and building secure, inclusive technology teams at global conferences and universities.
Shadow Forces: The Impact of Terror, Violence and Non-State Actors in the Global SystemCyber BattlegroundsStar Wars or Star Peace
Leading Cybersecurity Across Sectors
Laura I. Harder brings decades of expertise in executing cybersecurity operations across the U.S. military, healthcare, government, and Fortune-ranked companies. As an Offensive Cyber Officer in the Air Force Reserves, she understands the complexity of securing critical systems while managing regulatory frameworks like NIST 800-53.
Her leadership spans roles in application development, cyber threat mitigation, risk assessments, and technical project management. Laura's hands-on approach empowers organizations to operate securely while staying innovative in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.
Advocating for Community & Cyber Education
Laura I. Harder is a tireless advocate for advancing cybersecurity education and community service. As VP of ISSA International and President of the Northern Colorado ISSA Chapter, she mentors transitioning veterans, women in tech, and rising cybersecurity leaders.
Her speaking engagements at universities and global conferences cover AI, cyber espionage, and social engineering. She is also a devoted teacher, creating inclusive learning environments and advocating for underrepresented voices in cybersecurity.
Laura's Story
Laura I. Harder's career began in the U.S. Army, where she served for 9 years before transitioning to the Air Force Reserves, where she continues to serve as an Offensive Cyber Officer. Her journey includes raising neurodiverse children, which reshaped her leadership philosophy and commitment to inclusivity.
From contractor to federal civilian, and now executive, Laura's path reflects resilience, service, and a deep belief in empowering others through mentorship and advocacy in the ever-critical field of cybersecurity.
Get in Touch
Contact Laura
Whether you're looking to book Laura for an event, connect for a partnership, or reach out for press — we'd love to hear from you.
Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge.
