After 32 years of combined military and civilian service, Mrs. Maria I. Nelson, a pioneering leader in military cyber, will retire from the Department of Defense this September as the Deputy Director, Cyber Effects Ops Integration (COO/S36). Her story is not just one of career longevity—it is one of groundbreaking leadership, quiet determination, and lasting national impact.
Her retirement ceremony, to be held on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. ET in the Hall of Heroes at the Pentagon, will be presided over by Lieutenant General Burt, who will formally conclude Mrs. Nelson’s distinguished career. The ceremony marks the closing chapter of a life of service that helped shape and secure some of the nation’s most critical defense communication and information systems.
Trailblazer in the Stars
As one of the Lead Cybersecurity Program Managers at United States Space Force (USSF) Headquarters, Mrs. Nelson helped build the cyber foundations of the newest military branch, literally from the ground up. She led policy enforcement, strategy development, and cybersecurity governance across space mission systems. Her work on the Strategic Cyber Security Program (SCP) and Defense Critical Infrastructure (DCI) not only strengthened the resilience of space weapon systems but helped align the Space Force with broader Department of the Air Force (DAF) security initiatives.
Her achievements were recognized across the force, culminating in her being awarded the Air Force Information Dominance Award, the first ever civilian recipient of the honor within the Space Force.
But beyond the accolades lies a legacy of breaking barriers: Maria I. Nelson is the first Black Hispanic female to serve in her senior cyber position within the United States Space Force. Her presence alone has helped pave the way for future generations of underrepresented professionals in national security.
A Career Forged in Complexity and Crisis
Maria Nelson’s career began in 1988, when she enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 74C Computer Telecommunications Operator. From data centers in Europe to operations centers in the US, she built technical expertise that would later serve as the foundation for her leadership in cyber operations.
After transitioning to the civilian sector, she advanced through key cybersecurity roles across the Army’s technical infrastructure. She served as Chief of Cybersecurity at the Regional Network Enterprise Center (RNEC) National Capital Region, where she was responsible for securing communications for more than 25,000 users and over 25,000 systems, including those supporting Presidential communications.
During a period of particularly intense cybersecurity scrutiny, she led efforts that improved the NCR’s cybersecurity readiness, raising DISA Command Cyber Readiness Inspection (CCRI) scores from a failing 52% to a mission-ready 82%. She also supported high-profile initiatives such as securing Fort McNair during the WikiLeaks trial and served as a Security Control Assessor Validator (SCA-V) when the Army faced a nationwide shortage.
Certifications, Commendations, and Quiet Excellence
Mrs. Nelson’s résumé reads like a map of modern cybersecurity evolution. She holds a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems, multiple advanced certifications, including Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) and Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC). She has completed leadership programs at the Space Force Executive Leaders Course, the Army Civilian Advanced Leadership Course, and the Space Force Enterprise Leadership Course at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Her trophy case includes the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service, the Civilian Service Achievement Medal, and multiple performance and special act awards. In uniform, she earned the Army Commendation Medal (2 OLC) and Army Achievement Medal (2 OLC), along with the National Defense Service Medal.
But those who worked with her often cite her quiet determination, tireless mentorship, and deep moral grounding as her most valuable contributions.
A Vision Beyond Retirement
As she transitions into retirement, Mrs. Nelson looks forward to a well-earned season of exploration, family, and gratitude.
“I’m incredibly thankful to God for blessing my journey and surrounding me with a strong support system—my husband, parents, siblings, faith-based community, colleagues, extended family, and dear friends,” she shares. “After retirement, I plan to travel with my husband to explore my rich, cultural Latina family heritage, while spending cherished time with our grandchildren, family and friends. I am excited for what’s ahead and deeply grateful for what God has allowed me to accomplish in my career.”
More Than a Career — A Calling
Maria Nelson’s legacy is measured not just by the systems she protected or the policies she authored, but by the standard she set. She has been a steady force in moments of uncertainty, a mentor to rising cyber professionals, and a living example that leadership is about action, not position.
Maria also takes great pride in her work beyond the office. She has been actively involved in the STEM-to-Space initiative, inspiring K–12 students through hands-on STEM events in local schools and sparking their interest in science and technology. Over the years, she has frequently volunteered her time to support young people, leading a vibrant teen ministry and teaching youth Bible study at her local church. Additionally, she and her husband have worked together to support couples and families, ministering to promote holistic family wellness.
As the Department of Defense bids farewell to one of its most influential cyber leaders, her colleagues, friends, and fellow service members celebrate not only a career of extraordinary distinction but also a life dedicated to protecting the nation from ever-evolving threats in an increasingly complex digital age.
Her retirement leaves a deep footprint in the corridors of the Pentagon and a high bar for those who follow.
Thank you, Mrs. Maria I. Nelson, for a career defined by courage, excellence, and service. Your legacy is secured in the systems you built, the people you inspired, and the country you helped protect.
About the U.S. Space Force & Career Opportunities
Established in December 2019, the United States Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and operates under the Department of the Air Force. Its mission is to organize, train, and equip space forces to protect U.S. and allied interests in space, ensure freedom of operation in the space domain, and provide space capabilities to the joint force. From satellite communications to missile warning systems and orbital cybersecurity, the USSF is on the cutting edge of defense innovation. If you’re interested in joining this groundbreaking service whether as a military member, civilian, or contractor, you can explore current job openings at www.usajobs.gov by searching “United States Space Force” or visit the official USSF website at www.spaceforce.mil to learn more about career paths, internships, and eligibility requirements.
CWC News 