Kathleen Whalen
About Kathleen Whalen
Kathleen Whalen is the Manager of Cybersecurity Services at Kratos Defense and Security Solutions, where she oversees assessments for various cloud service providers. With extensive experience in information assurance and cybersecurity, she has held several roles in notable organizations and is actively involved in Toastmasters as an Area Director.
Work at Kratos Defense and Security Solutions
Kathleen Whalen has been serving as the Manager of Cybersecurity Services at Kratos Defense and Security Solutions since 2017. In this role, she oversees the delivery of cybersecurity assessments for various cloud service providers. Her responsibilities include managing project deliverables, schedules, and billable hours in collaboration with Project Managers. Whalen's team is involved in all phases of the Risk Management Framework, ensuring timely and budget-compliant delivery of critical documents such as Readiness Assessment Reports and Security Assessment Plans.
Education and Expertise
Kathleen Whalen holds a Master of Arts in Security Resource Management from Webster University, which she completed between 2004 and 2010. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Robert Morris University from 1988 to 1992. Whalen is recognized as an expert in interpreting NIST 800-53 controls and assessing management, operational, and technical controls for various cloud service models, including PaaS, IaaS, and SaaS. Her extensive experience includes writing policies and procedures based on NIST guidelines since 2001.
Background in Cybersecurity
Kathleen Whalen has a diverse background in cybersecurity, having worked in various roles since 1997. Her career includes positions such as Senior Information Assurance Analyst at SRA International, Inc. and Senior Security Engineer at Securicon. She has also served as a Technical Project Lead at Veris Group, LLC, and as a Senior Commercial Cybersecurity Consultant at ManTech International Corporation. Whalen began focusing on FedRAMP and cloud assessments around 2014, further solidifying her expertise in the field.
Achievements in Leadership and Mentorship
In addition to her professional roles, Kathleen Whalen is actively involved in Toastmasters, where she mentors and advises four clubs as the Area Director for Area 64 in District 29. She has coordinated and hosted two Toastmasters Area Contests, contributing to the development of public speaking skills within her community. Whalen aspires to enhance her public speaking abilities further and aims to achieve Advanced Leadership and Advanced Communication education awards. She also has a goal to deliver a TED talk in the future.
Professional Contributions and Responsibilities
Kathleen Whalen's professional contributions include leading teams in reviewing and revising policies and procedures related to cybersecurity. She manages the coordination between assessment teams and penetration testing teams, ensuring that all activities align with project objectives. Whalen's teams are responsible for developing essential deliverables throughout the Risk Management Framework, and she has a proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.