Executive Director ' Madera Cyber Innovation Center (MCIC)

THE OVERVIEW

The Association & Foundation, in support of the U.S. Air Force Academy, seeks its first Executive Director—a civilian leader who will serve as the principal integrator and strategic driver across all resident organizations. The success of this role will be measured by the success of the tenant organizations, the coherence of cyber initiatives undertaken by them, and the impact of the MCIC on the missions of the Academy in supporting DAF objectives. This is a full-time, on-site and donation funded position (initial duration of three years). The Executive Director will be required to be on a Volunteer Services Agreement (VSA) with USAFA. The role requires someone who can operate credibly across three very different worlds: the academic environment of USAFA, the operational tempo of active-duty cyber and space units (16th Air Force / Air Combat Command and U.S. Space Force Combatant Command), and the commercial cyber industry. This person will partner closely with the senior military officer in the MCIC (currently the O-6 leading CyberWorx), the Director of the Institute for Future Conflict, and the Chair of the USAFA Computer Science and Cyber Department; coordinate between the MCIC Board of Advisors and active AF/Space Force units, and report to the Superintendent of USAFA.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• A bridge-builder who earns trust across military, academic, and commercial cultures without losing credibility in any.
• Comfortable operating without direct authority; leads through influence, relationships, and the quality of ideas.
• Shows up with energy, urgency, and a builder’s mindset; sees the MCIC’s early stage as an opportunity, not a limitation.
• High humility and low ego; succeeds only when the people and organizations around them succeed.
• Deeply curious about cyber relevant operational practice, technology and threat evolution; stays current out of genuine intellectual interest.
• Significant leadership in commercial cyber or defense technology, with demonstrated understanding of how cyber capabilities are developed, deployed, and used in enterprise and/or military environments.
• Proven ability to integrate organizations with different missions, funding streams, and cultures toward shared objectives.
• Experience operating within or alongside DoD organizations; strong familiarity with military hierarchy, communication norms, and decision-making.
• Track record building and stewarding relationships with boards, advisory councils, senior executives, and/or flag officers.
• Understanding of national security interests and the evolving cyber threat landscape across military, intelligence, and civilian domains.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree from accredited and reputable university. Degree in computer science, cybersecurity, engineering, or a closely related field strongly preferred.
• Military service or equivalent DoD/USG experience strongly preferred.
• Full-time, on-site presence at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO.
• Ability to pass a DBIDS background check for access to MCIC offices on the Academy campus.
• The applicant must be able to attain a TS/SCI clearance. Possession of a current/active clearance is strongly preferred.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The salary range for this position is $185,000 - $250,000. The Association & Foundation offers a competitive benefits package for full-time employees including but not limited to:

• Medical/Dental/Vision
• 401(k) - up to a 6% match
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy
• 12 Holidays
• Employer Paid Life Insurance
• Free tickets to Air Force Basketball, Hockey etc.
• Gym access

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Applicants must submit a cover letter and a resume to receive full consideration. The position will remain open until filled.