Yolanda C. Reid is a seasoned technology executive and trailblazer, with over two decades of leadership driving innovation at the intersection of national security and emerging technologies. As a former Department of Defense civilian for over 20 years, I have been “doing cyber” before we had the term.

Passionate about leveraging new technologies to advance the future, Ms. Reid has led workforces employing radio frequency communications, high-speed fiber networks, SCADA systems, satellite technologies, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and advanced software development. Her dedication to innovation continued after transitioning from federal service to become Vice President of Cyber at EverWatch, where she co-developed the offensive cyber business line. She later joined Raytheon BBN, where she led research initiatives exploring cyber operations, artificial intelligence and machine learning, information exploitation, quantum computing, and synthetic biology.

Ms. Reid also worked at IBM, applying her technical and leadership expertise to help clients modernize mission-critical systems and adopt emerging technologies. Building on her deep commitment to client-centered solutions, she founded Code: Mercedes Q, a consultancy dedicated to assisting clients by solving critical concerns with a focus on people and impact over profits.

She holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering from Vanderbilt University, a Master’s in Information Technology from the University of Maryland, University College, and is currently completing her Ph.D. in Information Technology at Capella University.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Reid is a dedicated advocate for broadening participation in the cyber workforce, an enthusiastic cheer mom, and a cancer survivor who inspires others by sharing her journey of perseverance and resilience through life’s toughest challenges.