Michael Tillman

"I began my career in support of the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) in 2005 as part of a Northrop Grumman program team. Prior to assuming this role, I served in the U.S. Marine Corps and worked in law enforcement.

I was three years into my role as a security analyst at Northrop Grumman when I learned the program was looking for someone with my cyber skillset to join their team...Fifteen years later my passion for the mission remains unchanged, and I am proud to have built a career at Northrop Grumman serving the IC."

"Currently, I work as a department manager for Northrop Grumman’s Information Warfare and Cyber Survivability Solutions business unit. In this role, I lead a team of program managers, and my typical work day includes meeting with staff to ensure the timely delivery of customer priorities and the successful execution of mission objectives. I also partner with our business development team in support of upcoming captures and business pursuits.

Probably the most important parts of my job are employee development and customer engagement. I once attended a training where the facilitator told the class to 'cherish being mentored and strive to be a mentor to others.' I took those words to heart, and I spend a lot of time mentoring young professionals on my team and across the Northrop Grumman organization, especially in the Employee Resource Groups where I am an active member and advocate."

"Undoubtedly, it’s the mission followed by the amazing people. Because of the unique nature of working in the classified mission space, I may not be able to share details about my work with friends and family, but knowing that I am helping solve the nation’s hardest problems that will ultimately protect and save lives, gives me a great sense of pride."

"I am looking forward to the How Diversity and Inclusion Drive Innovation panel [as part of The New IC]. As a leader, I know first-hand the critical role that diversity and inclusion plays in innovation. Teams from varied life experiences and from different backgrounds, will come at problems differently, which can spur the next technical achievement or life-saving solution.

Moreover, as we look to build a pipeline of future intelligence professionals ensuring that we recruit women and people of color is critical. We also need to introduce diverse groups to our profession early, which is why I take advantage of any opportunity to talk to K-12 and college students. I want them to know a career in the IC is great way to make a living and have a meaningful impact on our country and world."