Additional Info

Job title of nominated professional (or team name)Chief Executive Officer
Company (where nominated professional or team is working)Federal IT Security Institute
Websitehttps://www.fitsi.org
Company size (employees)1 to 9
CountryUnited States
Headquarters RegionNorth America

Overview

Jim Wiggins is a visionary leader in cybersecurity education, whose profound impact over the last 26 years has significantly elevated the United States Government’s cyber defense capabilities. As the Founder and CEO of the Federal IT Security Institute (FITSI), Jim created the Federal IT Security Professional (FITSP) certification program, a pioneering initiative that directly meets the cybersecurity training needs of the federal workforce. His dedication to excellence led him to successfully obtain ANAB accreditation under ISO/IEC 17024:2012 for FITSP, affirming its adherence to international best practices in personnel certification.

Under Jim’s strategic leadership, FITSP was integrated into key governmental professional development frameworks, including the Department of Defense (DoD) 8140 Program, the DoD COOL Program, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Cyber Skills Incentive Program (CSIP), and the Skills Incentive Program (SIP) at the State Department and USAID. These milestones not only extended the program’s reach but also underscored its vital role in enhancing the cybersecurity qualifications of IT security professionals within the federal sector.

Jim’s relentless pursuit of cybersecurity excellence is further demonstrated through his establishment of the FITSI Foundation and the Wounded Warrior Cyber Combat Academy (W2CCA), initiatives that extend critical cybersecurity training to veterans, aiding in their transition into civilian roles. Additionally, as the principal of Securible, LLC, he has personally trained over 5,000 students and contributed to programs that have trained over 10,000 students in cybersecurity and IT, marking a significant contribution to the nation’s cyber readiness.

Jim’s efforts have not only improved the cyber education of U.S. Government staff but have also positioned the FITSP certification program as a benchmark for cybersecurity training across the federal landscape. His achievements reflect a career dedicated to national security and the professional advancement of cybersecurity practitioners.

Accomplishments

Extensive Experience and Dedication to Cybersecurity Education: Jim has directly educated over 5,000 students and played a pivotal role in programs training more than 10,000 students in cybersecurity and IT, showcasing his vast influence and commitment to the field.


Pioneering Contributions to Federal Cybersecurity Training: As the founder of FITSI and the FITSI Foundation, Jim has not only established critical certification programs for federal employees but has also significantly contributed to retraining wounded service members, highlighting his dedication to enhancing national security through education.


Recognized Leadership and Impact: Jim's numerous awards and recognitions, including the Federal 100 Award and the Educator of the Year by FISSEA, attest to his leadership and exceptional contributions to cybersecurity education and training, making him an ideal candidate for the "Educator of the Year" award.


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