Damon Welch: The Cyber Expert You Need To Know In 2024

Darrel Kassulke 26 May 2025

Is America truly prepared for the next cyber onslaught? The answer, according to Damon Welch, founder and CEO of the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC), is a resounding call to action, demanding a unified front against an ever-evolving digital threat landscape.

Damon Welch stands at the forefront of the nation's cybersecurity defense, spearheading the NCPC, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to fostering a robust coalition of public and private sector entities. This collaborative mission aims to proactively address and enhance the country's cybersecurity preparedness. Welchs career is marked by extensive experience in national security and cybersecurity leadership, cultivated through pivotal roles in Congress, the Executive Branch, and the private sector, positioning him as a central figure in the ongoing battle to safeguard America's digital infrastructure.

Before establishing the NCPC, Welch served as the cybersecurity lead for the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security, concurrently holding the position of chief policy advisor to the Committee's Chairman. In these influential roles, he was entrusted with advising the Committee and House leadership on critical cybersecurity legislation and policy matters. His responsibilities included conducting rigorous oversight hearings and meticulously drafting legislation, demonstrating his profound impact on shaping national cybersecurity strategies. Furthermore, Welch spearheaded initiatives aimed at bolstering cybersecurity information sharing between the public and private sectors, advocating for a heightened state of national cybersecurity readiness.

Prior to his tenure on Capitol Hill, Welch served as a cybersecurity policy analyst at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), where he led the development of key national-level cybersecurity policies, including the National Infrastructure Protection Plan (NIPP). His work at DHS laid the groundwork for many of the cybersecurity strategies that continue to protect the nation's critical infrastructure today.

A distinguished alumnus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the George Washington University Law School, Welch's academic background complements his practical experience. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Aspen Institute Homeland Security Group, further cementing his role as a thought leader in national security. Welch also contributes his expertise to the Cybersecurity Advisory Boards of the North Carolina State University Cybersecurity Consortium and Cybrary. Moreover, he is a prolific speaker and author on a wide range of cybersecurity topics, sharing his insights and expertise with audiences around the globe.

Name	Damon Welch
Title	Founder and CEO, National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium
Education	University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, George Washington University Law School
Awards	"Top 25 Cybersecurity Influencers" by Cybersecurity Ventures, SANS Institute's "Cybersecurity Luminary" award
Memberships	Council on Foreign Relations, Aspen Institute Homeland Security Group
Reference	Damon Welch's LinkedIn Profile

Damon Welch is a prominent voice in the cybersecurity community, known for his incisive analysis and strategic thinking. He has authored numerous articles and reports on cybersecurity policy and preparedness, contributing significantly to the body of knowledge that guides national and international cybersecurity efforts. As a frequent speaker at prestigious national and international conferences, including the RSA Conference, the Black Hat Briefings, and the World Economic Forum, Welch shares his expertise and insights with a global audience. His contributions extend to testifying before Congress on multiple occasions, where his expertise informs legislative and policy decisions.

The impact of Damon's work has garnered recognition from both the cybersecurity community and the broader national security sector. In 2019, Cybersecurity Ventures recognized him as one of the "Top 25 Cybersecurity Influencers," underscoring his significant impact on the field. Further emphasizing his influence, in 2020, he was appointed to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's (CISA) Cybersecurity Advisory Committee, a testament to his trusted counsel and leadership. Adding to his accolades, Welch is also a recipient of the SANS Institute's "Cybersecurity Luminary" award, a prestigious honor acknowledging his outstanding contributions to the field.

Damon Welchs commitment lies in building a robust national cybersecurity coalition, a unified front designed to address the multifaceted challenges of cybersecurity preparedness. Through the NCPC, he diligently works to unite organizations from both the public and private sectors, facilitating the exchange of critical information, the development of industry best practices, and the advocacy for policies aimed at strengthening the nation's overall cybersecurity posture.

Welch firmly believes that a strong cybersecurity posture is not merely an option but an absolute necessity for safeguarding the nation's critical infrastructure, ensuring economic stability, and protecting national security interests. He is actively engaged in building a resilient coalition, one capable of withstanding and mitigating cyberattacks while enhancing the nation's preparedness to respond effectively to cybersecurity incidents.

Damon Welch envisions a future for cybersecurity characterized by collaboration, innovation, and proactive preparedness. He is confident that by fostering a synergistic relationship between the public and private sectors, a more secure and resilient cybersecurity environment can be established for the nation.

Welch is unwavering in his commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to realize this vision. He is a fervent advocate for cybersecurity education and training, firmly believing that every individual and organization has a vital role to play in safeguarding the nation's digital assets.

Damon Welch stands as a visionary leader within the cybersecurity community, driven by a mission to build a national cybersecurity coalition that fortifies the nation's resilience against cyberattacks and enhances its readiness to respond effectively to cybersecurity incidents. He champions cybersecurity education and training, empowering every citizen to actively participate in protecting the nation's digital landscape.

Damon Welch is not only a cybersecurity expert but also a dedicated advocate. He founded the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC), a non-profit organization committed to bolstering the nation's cybersecurity readiness. Welch brings a wealth of experience to the table, honed through his work in Congress, the Executive Branch, and the private sector, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in cybersecurity policy and leadership.

Cybersecurity expert
Policy advisor
Coalition builder
Thought leader
Visionary

Welch's work centers on fostering a national cybersecurity coalition, promoting comprehensive cybersecurity education and training, and advocating for policies that will strengthen the nation's cybersecurity defenses. He is a staunch advocate for collaboration and innovation as essential components in addressing the complex cybersecurity challenges facing the nation.

Welch's contributions have been widely recognized by the cybersecurity community and the broader national security arena. He was named among the "Top 25 Cybersecurity Influencers" by Cybersecurity Ventures and has been honored with the SANS Institute's "Cybersecurity Luminary" award. Furthermore, he is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Aspen Institute Homeland Security Group, affiliations that underscore his commitment to national security and cybersecurity excellence.

Name	Damon Welch
Title	Founder and CEO, National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium
Education	University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, George Washington University Law School
Awards	"Top 25 Cybersecurity Influencers" by Cybersecurity Ventures, SANS Institute's "Cybersecurity Luminary" award
Memberships	Council on Foreign Relations, Aspen Institute Homeland Security Group

Damon Welch stands as a leading authority in cybersecurity, backed by over two decades of experience in the field. His expertise is sought after across government, the private sector, and academia, where he is recognized for his insightful perspectives on cybersecurity policy, strategy, and preparedness.

Policy advisor
Welch has served as a cybersecurity policy advisor to senior government officials, including members of Congress and the Executive Branch. In these roles, he has played a key role in developing and shaping cybersecurity policy and legislation.
Thought leader
Welch is a frequent speaker and writer on cybersecurity issues. He has published numerous articles and reports on cybersecurity policy and preparedness, and is regularly invited to speak at national and international conferences and events.
Educator
Welch is committed to educating the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. He has taught cybersecurity courses at the university level and is a regular guest lecturer at other educational institutions.
Advocate
Welch is a strong advocate for cybersecurity preparedness. He believes that the nation needs to do more to prepare for and respond to cyberattacks. He is working to raise awareness of cybersecurity risks and to promote policies that will improve the nation's cybersecurity posture.

Welch's expertise in cybersecurity is widely recognized. He has been named one of the "Top 25 Cybersecurity Influencers" by Cybersecurity Ventures and has received the SANS Institute's "Cybersecurity Luminary" award. He is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Aspen Institute Homeland Security Group.

Damon Welch has been a trusted advisor to senior government officials, including members of Congress and the Executive Branch, on critical cybersecurity policy issues. His guidance has been pivotal in shaping cybersecurity policy and legislation.

Welch's expertise as a policy advisor has been instrumental in shaping the nation's cybersecurity policy framework. He has been involved in drafting legislation, conducting oversight hearings, and advising policymakers on complex cybersecurity issues, contributing to a stronger and more resilient cybersecurity posture for the nation.

Welch's profound understanding of the policymaking process, coupled with his ability to translate complex technical concepts into practical policy recommendations, makes him an invaluable resource for policymakers. He bridges the gap between the cybersecurity community and the policy world, ensuring that cybersecurity remains a top priority for decision-makers.

Welch's policy advisory work is a vital component of his broader efforts to bolster the nation's cybersecurity posture. He is a vocal advocate for proactive cybersecurity preparedness, emphasizing the need for enhanced readiness and response capabilities in the face of escalating cyber threats. His work as a policy advisor is instrumental in making the nation more secure and resilient in the face of evolving cyber challenges.

Damon Welch is a skilled coalition builder, uniting diverse stakeholders from the public and private sectors to tackle the nation's complex cybersecurity challenges. Through his leadership of the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC), Welch has forged partnerships with government agencies, businesses, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations, fostering collaborative cybersecurity initiatives.

Public-private partnerships
Welch is a strong proponent of public-private partnerships as a means to address cybersecurity challenges. He believes that collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for information sharing, developing best practices, and advocating for policies that strengthen the nation's cybersecurity defenses. Through the NCPC, Welch has facilitated the creation of several successful public-private partnerships, including the Cybersecurity Information Sharing and Analysis Center (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Workforce Alliance.
International collaboration
Welch recognizes that cybersecurity is a global concern, requiring international cooperation. He has worked to cultivate relationships with cybersecurity leaders in other countries, promoting international collaboration on crucial cybersecurity initiatives. For example, Welch has collaborated with the United Kingdom's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) to develop a joint cybersecurity training program, enhancing global cybersecurity capabilities.
Community engagement
Welch emphasizes the importance of community engagement in building a strong cybersecurity posture. He has worked to raise awareness of cybersecurity risks and promote best practices within communities. For example, Welch has developed a cybersecurity awareness campaign that is currently being utilized by schools and community organizations across the country, empowering citizens to protect themselves in the digital realm.
Thought leadership
Welch is a respected thought leader in the cybersecurity field. He regularly shares his expertise through speaking engagements and publications, addressing cybersecurity policy and preparedness. His insights are frequently sought by Congress and other government bodies. Welch's thought leadership has played a pivotal role in shaping the national conversation on cybersecurity, emphasizing the critical importance of preparedness.

Welch's coalition-building efforts have significantly strengthened the nation's cybersecurity posture. By uniting diverse stakeholders, Welch has fostered a more coordinated and effective approach to addressing complex cybersecurity challenges, enhancing the nation's ability to defend against cyber threats.

Damon Welch is a distinguished thought leader in cybersecurity, frequently sharing his insights on policy and preparedness through speaking engagements, written publications, and testimonies before Congress and other government bodies. Welch's thought leadership is instrumental in shaping the national dialogue on cybersecurity, fostering awareness of the paramount importance of cybersecurity preparedness.

Policy development
Welch's thought leadership directly influences cybersecurity policy development. His research and analysis on cybersecurity issues inform policymakers and shape legislation. For example, Welch's work on the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act (CISA) established a framework for effective cybersecurity information sharing between the public and private sectors, enhancing the nation's ability to respond to cyber threats.
Public awareness
Welch's thought leadership efforts extend to raising public awareness of cybersecurity risks and best practices. He communicates cybersecurity information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences. Welch's work has significantly contributed to public understanding of cybersecurity and the adoption of recommended practices.
International collaboration
Welch's thought leadership contributes to international collaboration on cybersecurity issues. He collaborates with international cybersecurity leaders to develop joint initiatives and share best practices. For instance, Welch has worked with the United Kingdom's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) to develop a joint cybersecurity training program, strengthening global cybersecurity defenses.
Educating the next generation
Welch is dedicated to educating the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. He has taught cybersecurity courses at the university level and regularly serves as a guest lecturer at other educational institutions. Welch's efforts are crucial in developing the next generation of cybersecurity leaders, ensuring that the nation possesses the skilled workforce needed to address future cybersecurity challenges.

Welch's contributions to cybersecurity thought leadership have greatly enhanced the nation's cybersecurity posture. His influence has shaped cybersecurity policy, increased public awareness of cybersecurity risks, encouraged international collaboration, and facilitated the education of future cybersecurity professionals.

Damon Welch is a visionary leader in the cybersecurity community, driven by a clear vision for the future of cybersecurity. He is dedicated to making that vision a reality, tirelessly working to improve the nation's readiness and response capabilities. Welch champions the establishment of a national cybersecurity coalition, aimed at enhancing the nation's resilience against cyber threats.

Welch's vision for the future of cybersecurity is built on three core principles: collaboration, innovation, and preparedness. He believes that the public and private sectors must collaborate effectively to share information, develop best practices, and advocate for policies that strengthen the nation's cybersecurity defenses. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of investing in research and development to create cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies and solutions. Finally, he advocates for improved preparedness to ensure a swift and effective response to cyberattacks, working to develop a comprehensive national cybersecurity preparedness plan.

Welch's vision for the future of cybersecurity is both ambitious and achievable, backed by his extensive experience, profound expertise, and unwavering passion. As a true visionary leader, Welch is making a significant contribution to bolstering the nation's cybersecurity defenses.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Damon Welch, a leading cybersecurity expert and advocate:

Question 1: What is Damon Welch's background?

Damon Welch has extensive experience in cybersecurity policy and leadership, having worked in Congress, the Executive Branch, and the private sector. He is the founder and CEO of the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC), a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the nation's cybersecurity preparedness.

Question 2: What are Damon Welch's key areas of expertise?

Damon Welch is a leading expert in cybersecurity policy, strategy, and preparedness. He is also a skilled coalition builder and thought leader. He has played a key role in developing the nation's cybersecurity policy framework and has helped to raise awareness of cybersecurity risks and best practices.

Summary: Damon Welch is a leading cybersecurity expert and advocate. He has dedicated his career to improving the nation's cybersecurity posture. He is a visionary leader who is working to build a more secure and resilient cybersecurity environment for the nation.

Who is Damon Welch? The US Sun

Who is Damon Welch's father James Westley Welch?

Damon Welch

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Damon Welch: The Cyber Expert You Need To Know In 2024

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