NASA Appoints Deputy CIO for IT Security

NASA announced today that it has appointment Valarie Burks as the deputy CIO for Information Technology Security.

Previously, Burks served as the associate CIO for Cyber and Privacy Policy and Oversight at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) where she managed Federal Information Security Management Act reporting, governance, risk and crisis management, strategic oversight and compliance.

“Valarie has a significant background and experience in IT management,” said NASA’s CIO Linda Cureton. “That combined with her in-depth understanding of communications and holistic approach to IT security make her an invaluable asset to our efforts.” Burks developed and launched the USDA Certification and Accreditation Center of Excellence to improve and mitigate system risks, reduce costs and improve the quality and standards for systems.

Burks has developed, managed, and maintained IT infrastructure and equipment including network, desktop, video, web-hosting and telecommunications operations. She handled IT management responsibilities while working for the Office of Management and Budget, Department of Commerce and Government Accountability Office.

Burks received her B.S. in computer science from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She also received her M.S. in computer systems management from the University of Maryland, University College.