Leah Zimmerman
Leah Zimmerman (She/Her) is a highly accomplished Security Architect with more than 20 years of experience in IT program management and cybersecurity. Throughout her career, Leah has built a reputation for designing and implementing innovative security solutions that protect critical data, systems, and networks across the public sector. She holds an impressive portfolio of certifications, including GMON, RMP, CISSP, Cyber Analyst, PMP, and ACP, reflecting her broad technical expertise, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to professional development. Leah’s work demonstrates a rare combination of deep technical knowledge, practical implementation skills, and a focus on aligning security strategies with organizational missions.
Leah’s core competencies encompass architecture analysis, continuous monitoring, zero trust frameworks, DevSecOps, process improvement, software project management, and IT governance. She has successfully led high-impact initiatives for federal agencies, including the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs, advancing identity and device management, network segmentation, and compliance with NIST, CISA, and NSA standards. Her approach is highly collaborative, leveraging cross-functional teams and vendor partnerships to optimize workflows, deliver mission-critical solutions, and ensure organizations remain resilient against evolving cyber threats. Colleagues consistently recognize her leadership, strategic thinking, and ability to navigate complex challenges with precision and integrity.
Beyond her professional achievements, Leah leads a rich and vibrant personal life that reflects her dedication, discipline, and passions. She has been riding horses for 50 years and currently cares for four cherished horses, illustrating her commitment and lifelong love of equestrian pursuits. Leah is also an enthusiastic cook, with a particular talent for preparing venison dishes, and enjoys sharing these creations with family and friends. She has been in a supportive partnership for 15 years with a partner who shares her love of the outdoors and hunting, emphasizing her appreciation for connection, adventure, and balance. Leah’s ability to harmonize a demanding professional career with personal fulfillment highlights her resilience, focus, and well-rounded approach to both work and life.
• Cloud Key Management Foundations
• Cloud Key Management Foundations II
• Microservices & Containers Fundamentals
• Academy Live: Building Threat-Informed Emulation Plans
• Syracuse University - BA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to consistently showing up and being fully prepared for every challenge and opportunity. Over the course of my career, I have learned that readiness, combining technical expertise, strategic thinking, and adaptability, is essential to delivering results and earning trust. By approaching each project and responsibility with focus, diligence, and a commitment to continuous learning, I am able to navigate complex situations effectively and contribute meaningful solutions. This mindset, coupled with persistence and a dedication to excellence, has been the foundation of my professional achievements.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to not take anything personally, as it’s all business. Understanding that decisions, feedback, and challenges are driven by business objectives rather than personal feelings has helped me maintain focus, make clear-headed decisions, and navigate complex professional situations with confidence and professionalism.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the cybersecurity field is to stay focused on the mathematics and quantitative aspects of the industry. Building strong analytical and problem-solving skills provides a solid foundation for understanding complex systems, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing effective security solutions. By cultivating these technical strengths, women can position themselves for success and make meaningful contributions in this rapidly evolving field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in cybersecurity today is managing the impact of volatile budgets. Fluctuating resources can affect staffing, technology investments, and long-term planning, making it essential to prioritize initiatives, optimize efficiency, and demonstrate the value of security programs. At the same time, these constraints present opportunities to innovate, streamline processes, and find creative solutions that strengthen organizational resilience and effectiveness.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are diligence and honesty. I believe in approaching every task with careful attention, persistence, and a commitment to excellence, while maintaining transparency and integrity in all interactions. These principles guide my decisions, foster trust with colleagues and clients, and form the foundation of both my professional and personal relationships.