Mr. McMasters is a senior homeland security executive with over 20 years of leadership experience across law enforcement, emergency management, and national security operations.
He currently serves as the Acting Regional Director for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Region 5, where he leads all regional cybersecurity, protective security, emergency communications, and administrative operations—managing CISA programs and personnel across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
Previously, Mike served as Chief of Protective Security for Region 5, leading physical security operations and initiatives to safeguard critical infrastructure and reduce risk. In his current role, he oversees CISA’s 24/7 incident monitoring and regional response posture. He leads multidisciplinary teams that coordinate closely with public and private sector stakeholders to strengthen preparedness, enhance security, and build resilience for our Nation's most critical infrastructure.
He has directed security operations for high-profile events, including CISA’s support to the 2024 Republican and Democratic National Conventions, the Boston Marathon bombing trial, and other National Special Security Events (NSSEs). As a former Commander for the Federal Protective Service, Mike managed law enforcement operations for 500 personnel and 300+ federal facilities across multiple states.
Mike also served as a Protective Security Advisor (PSA), providing physical & cybersecurity vulnerability assessments and resilience strategies to critical infrastructure operators, SMBs, Fortune 500 companies, and state and local governments. While at DHS’s Office of Intelligence & Analysis, he co-led the Joint Counterterrorism Awareness Workshop Series (JCTAWS) and served as a U.S. liaison to the Government of Canada, enhancing cross-border intelligence sharing. He also supported interagency security planning for the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.
Before joining DHS, Mike held leadership roles as Emergency Management Director for Lexington County, South Carolina, and as a Regional Emergency Manager for the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.
He holds a Master of Arts in Security Studies (Homeland Security and Defense) from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School and a Bachelor’s in Emergency Management from Ohio University. He also holds certifications in physical security, cybersecurity, intelligence analysis, and continuity planning. His work has earned recognition through the CISA Gold Award, Undersecretary’s Valor Award, and multiple citations for leadership and public service.
Mike and his wife Ashley are the proud parents of three adventurous children. He enjoys family time, travel, music, and officiating collegiate lacrosse.
