Dr. Derek A. Smith is a nationally recognized cybersecurity leader, retired Deputy Director with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Cybersecurity Service, and former federal law enforcement agent with more than 20 years of cybersecurity, intelligence, and investigative experience across AFOSI, Army CID, multiple Offices of Inspector General, and the Defense Intelligence Agency.
He is also a cybersecurity professor and the author of more than 13 books on security, biometrics, and artificial intelligence, including the widely referenced AI Defender.
Dr. Smith previously served as a cybersecurity consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton and Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), where he helped design and deliver enterprise-grade cybersecurity awareness programs for large multinational clients. His work included building customized human-factor security frameworks, developing phishing and social engineering simulations, creating multimedia awareness materials, and designing executive-level cyber resilience workshops. He has supported major global organizations such as Chevron, Smithfield Foods, Inovalon, and other Fortune 100 companies, helping them strengthen their workforce security posture and reduce human-driven cyber risk.
With deep expertise spanning cyber defense, identity governance, cloud and AI security, workforce behavioral transformation, and national-level security strategy, Dr. Smith has trained thousands of users across both government and private-sector environments. He is known for simplifying complex cybersecurity concepts for technical, non-technical, and executive audiences, and for creating measurable, sustainable culture-change programs.
For this SJC engagement, Dr. Smith—working with MKM Global LLC—brings:
Demonstrated experience delivering multi-year cybersecurity awareness and culture initiatives
A strong global background in designing enterprise training programs aligned to best practices
Leadership in cyber governance, policy development, and incident response readiness
Deep instructional and communication expertise tailored to diverse user groups
A proven track record in improving user behavior, reducing phishing susceptibility, and raising organizational security maturity
Dr. Smith’s combination of government leadership, private-sector consulting, and enterprise awareness program development uniquely positions him to support the Supreme Judicial Council in building a resilient, mature, and future-ready cybersecurity culture.