Thursday, June 18th • 6:00 PM
Mission Ready for Quantum: Operationalizing Post-Quantum Cryptography Across Federal Systems
Join ISC2 Northern Virginia Chapter for an expert presentation on one of the most urgent national security challenges facing the federal government — the transition to post-quantum cryptography.
This is not a theoretical overview — our speaker will move beyond the hype to share practical, field-tested approaches for operationalizing quantum-resistant encryption in federal environments today.
Event Agenda
Location: 1680 Capital One Drive, Building C2: Room 100A, McLean, VA 22102
- 6:00 – 6:30 PM: Check-in and Networking (Food provided – first come, first served)
- 6:30 – 8:00 PM: Chapter Meeting & Presentation
- 8:00 PM onward — at The Perch (same place, same time, two separate happenings):
- Cyber Social Hour — sponsored by Humango Solutions LLC
- Recruiting Event — sponsored by Vibrint, on-site recruiting for cleared technical roles
Session Abstract
Quantum computing is no longer a distant research problem — it is a near-term national security risk. Adversaries are already harvesting encrypted federal data today with the expectation that tomorrow's quantum capabilities will render current cryptography obsolete. For agencies responsible for protecting mission systems, classified environments, and critical infrastructure, the question is no longer if to adopt post-quantum cryptography (PQC), but how to operationalize it at scale without disrupting the mission.
This session moves beyond theory to execution. Dan will share IBM's point of view on the current landscape of quantum computing, along with roadmaps that illustrate the threat of a cryptographically relevant quantum computer. Dan will also share IBM's practical, field-tested approach for transitioning federal environments to quantum-resistant encryption using crypto agility, asset discovery, and phased migration strategies aligned with NIST standards and federal mandates.
The quantum clock is ticking. Mission readiness starts now.
Key Discussion Points
- The Quantum Threat Timeline: Understanding when cryptographically relevant quantum computers pose a real risk to current federal encryption.
- Harvest Now, Decrypt Later: Why adversaries are already collecting encrypted data and what agencies must do today.
- Crypto Agility & Asset Discovery: Practical frameworks for inventorying cryptographic dependencies across complex federal environments.
- NIST & Federal Mandate Alignment: Navigating PQC standards and phased migration strategies that satisfy regulatory requirements.
Featured Speaker
Featured Speaker
Dan Waddell
Partner, IBM Federal Cybersecurity Service Line @ IBM
Dan Waddell (CISSP, CGRC, PMP) is a Partner in the IBM Federal Cybersecurity Service line. One of his primary duties is leading the IBM Federal growth strategy for Post Quantum Computing (PQC) and IBM's offering, Quantum Safe. Dan has over 30 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity, with the majority of his time spent supporting the U.S. Federal government.
We're Hiring
Recruiting Event — Sponsored by Vibrint
ISC2 NOVA Chapter is excited to welcome Vibrint as the sponsor of our June recruiting event. Join Vibrint after the meeting at The Perch, Capital One's rooftop venue, during the Cyber Social Hour to learn more about their open roles.
Vibrint is growing, and they're looking for exceptional talent to help shape the future of national security. As an emerging prime contractor, Vibrint is leading critical advancements in High Performance Computing (HPC), Cybersecurity, DevOps, AI/ML, and next-generation technologies that support some of the nation's most important missions.
They have exciting opportunities for professionals with active TS/SCI security clearances (polygraphs preferred) in the following areas:
- Software Engineering
- Cloud Engineering
- Systems Architecture
- DevOps & DevSecOps
- Cybersecurity
- Quantum Computing & Emerging Technologies
If you're looking to tackle complex technical challenges alongside some of the industry's brightest minds, they'd love to meet you.
For a complete list of opportunities, visit the Careers Page and follow Vibrint on LinkedIn and Instagram for updates.
View Open Roles
Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights from an industry leader on one of the most pressing challenges in federal cybersecurity.
We look forward to seeing you there!