Mr. Joseph J. O’Keefe currently serves as the Acting Regional Director for Region 8 at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), a division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In this role, he leads CISA’s mission across a six-state region, providing strategic direction and operational oversight to enhance the security and resilience of critical infrastructure. As the region’s senior leader, Joe spearheads initiatives to mitigate evolving threats, foster public-private partnerships, and ensure the protection of vital assets across both the public and private sectors.
Professional Experience
Before assuming his current leadership position, Joe served as CISA’s Protective Security Advisor (PSA) for the Colorado District, where he played a pivotal role in national homeland security efforts. In this capacity, he acted as a key liaison to the Colorado Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Management, providing expert guidance on security vulnerabilities, threat mitigation, and infrastructure resilience. His work directly contributed to the national risk assessment framework by identifying, evaluating, and addressing risks to critical infrastructure at the local level.
As a PSA, Joe conducted vulnerability assessments, security surveys, and risk analyses for essential infrastructure, working in close collaboration with Federal, State, local, tribal, and private sector partners. His expertise in physical and cybersecurity helped strengthen information-sharing efforts and advance protective measures to counter emerging threats.
Military Service & Specialized Security Expertise
Before joining the Department of Homeland Security, Joe retired from the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Combat Controller within the joint special operations community. As part of the U.S. Special Operations Command’s Integrated Survey Program, he conducted high-risk security assessments at diplomatic facilities overseas, applying advanced threat analysis and security planning to protect U.S. personnel and assets abroad.
His distinguished military career earned him several commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal with Valor device and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, reflecting his dedication to national security and excellence in service.
Education & Executive Leadership
Joe holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management with a Project Management emphasis from Colorado Christian University and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, specializing in Organizational Training & Instructional Design, from Colorado State University. He further honed his leadership acumen as a Senior Executive Fellow at the Harvard John F. Kennedy School of Government.
With a career spanning national defense, infrastructure protection, and executive leadership, Joe remains committed to advancing the security and resilience of the nation’s critical infrastructure in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
