Russ Tiensvold

Russ Tiensvold has extensive experience in the field of information technology, with a focus on leadership and strategic planning. Russ began their career at National American University as an Applications Developer, where they developed, administered, and maintained a Microsoft SharePoint intranet for over 1,000 employees. Tiensvold then moved on to the City of Rapid City, SD, where they served as the Information Technology Officer, managing a technical staff and providing support to over 1,000 end-users. Russ also briefly held the role of Geographic Information System Coordinator at the same organization. Afterward, Tiensvold joined Pennington County, SD, as the Information Technology Director, leading a team that supported over 600 users across various departments. Russ then became the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Security First Bank, responsible for strategic technology planning and managing the IT staff. Within the same organization, they also served as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), overseeing the Information Security Program. Throughout their career, Tiensvold has demonstrated their ability to effectively manage teams, plan for technology deployment, and provide technical support to large organizations.

Russ Tiensvold obtained their education from National American University. Russ first earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology with an emphasis in Management Information Systems, which they completed from 2004 to 2007. In 2007, they further pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Management and completed it in 2009. Finally, they earned a Master of Management degree with an emphasis in Human Resource Management, which they completed from 2010 to 2011.

In addition to their formal education, Russ Tiensvold has obtained several certifications. Russ became a Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM) from ISACA in August 2018, and a Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control™ (CRISC) in September 2016. In July 2016, they obtained a Class I Executive Officer's License from the State of Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance. Russ also holds the MTA: Security Fundamentals - Certified 2016 certification from Microsoft, obtained in November 2015, and the Certified Banking Security Technology Professional (CBSTP) certification from Secure Banking Solutions, obtained in October 2015. Lastly, they received the Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification from the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) in April 2009, and the Certified Photogrammetrist (CP) certification from the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing in June 1996.