Dr. Aj Rutherford

Dr. AJ Rutherford serves as the Senior Director of Risk & Mission Operations at SOC LLC since July 2015, focusing on coordinating multicultural teams in diverse global locations, including Afghanistan and Iraq, while leading engagements with NATO and the US State Department. In addition to this role, Dr. Rutherford is an adjunct professor at both the University of the Cumberlands and Norwich University, mentoring PhD and graduate students in information security and risk management, and instructing courses on cybersecurity and infrastructure protection. Dr. Rutherford also holds a professorship at American Military University, where over 1000 undergraduate and more than 100 graduate students have benefited from advanced coursework in various information systems topics. Previously, Dr. Rutherford was a Special Operations Manager at Marine Forces Special Operations Command, directing planning and coordination for Department of Defense exercises. Academic credentials include a PhD in Computer and Information Systems Security from Capella University, a Master's in Military Strategic Intelligence, and a Bachelor's in Homeland Security, both from American Military University.