Virginia Tech alumnus named Association of Computing Machinery Fellow

The Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) has recognized Russ Housley, a 1982 Virginia Tech computer science alumnus as a fellow. The founder of Vigil Security is honored for his contributions in Internet security standards and leadership in the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). 

The fellow designation is the association’s most prestigious member grade, recognizing the top 1 percent of members for their outstanding accomplishments in computing and information technology, as well as  outstanding service to ACM and the larger computing community. 

Housley’s career spans the creation of critical security protocols, leadership in global internet standards, and a steadfast commitment to improving cybersecurity.

After graduating from Virginia Tech, he joined the U.S. Air Force, where he became involved in critical defense projects that sparked his interest in what would become cybersecurity. While the term didn’t exist at the time, his work laid the foundation for his future work in securing the internet. He later transitioned from the military to working at Xerox, tackling the emerging challenges of network security — an area that would define his career.

Housley founded the consulting firm Vigil Security in 2002 to provide a broad range of cybersecurity solutions to government and industry. He also played a key role in developing internet security standards like Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), a set of tools and processes that manage digital certificates and encryption keys, and email security, both of which continue to protect data today. 

His contributions led to a significant position with IETF, where he served as security area director, facilitating working groups on security. Housley also chaired the IETF for six years, shaping decisions on Internet governance. Additionally, he spent two years as chair of the Internet Architecture Board.

Although Housley has stepped back from top-tier leadership, he remains active, chairing working groups and continuing his efforts to improve the Internet.

He continues his work at Vigil Security and is active in mentoring younger engineers and sharing his expertise. He said he is particularly passionate about giving back to the communities that helped shape him, including Virginia Tech, where he stays connected to students and alumni.

“I received a solid foundation in computer science there that allowed me to move through my career,” Housley said. “The relationships I built — with faculty and fellow students — were critical to my development, and that’s something I’ve always carried with me.”

Housley’s dedication to guiding the next generation of engineers and computer scientists stems from his belief that the most important thing someone can do in school is follow their interests. 

“If you’re curious about something, explore it,” he said. “That curiosity will provide the motivation to dive deeper and learn. There is no reason not to learn more about something you’re passionate about.”

Today, Housley remains motivated by the same curiosity and commitment that first drew him to the world of computers. 

“There’s always more to do,” he said. “The challenges are constantly evolving, and that’s what keeps the industry exciting.”

Housley received a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Virginia Tech and a master’s degree in computer science from George Mason University.

Written by Julie Deacon, a December 2024 graduate of Virginia Tech and writer for the Department of Computer Science.