HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Col. Joshua P. Williams assumed the role of program executive officer for the Cyber and Networks Directorate at an assumption of leadership ceremony here Sept. 10.
Williams, a brigadier general-select, will lead more than 2,700 Airmen, government civilians and contractor personnel in the execution of a $21 billion portfolio of mission critical Acquisition Category and non-ACAT programs.
“This is a true honor,” said Williams. “I am humbled by the trust you’ve instilled in me. This directorate has a proud history, and your work is vital to our national security.”
The C&N directorate sustains Department of the Air Force enterprise information technology and cyber infrastructure, cybersecurity and cryptologic systems enabling reliable connectivity for more than 600,000 worldwide users.
The new PEO described his workforce as one that responds to evolving threats and remains agile.
“Our mission is not just about technology. It’s about people,” said Williams. “Within the organization, every single one of you counts.”
Williams has served more than 24 years in the Air Force, holding senior program management and leadership positions. Prior to assuming his current role, Williams was the PEO for Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Special Operations Forces at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.
Lt. Gen. Donna Shipton, commander, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, virtually co-presided over the assumption of leadership ceremony.
“While we are here today to install a new PEO and director it is also an opportunity which I will take to celebrate and honor you, the men and women of the directorate,” said Shipton. “It is truly your dedication that is the engine of the success of the organization.”
William Bailey, a member of the Senior Executive Service, performing the duties of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for acquisition, technology and logistics, highlighted important programs under C&N, including Platform One and Cloud One, while lauding Williams’ leadership style.
“The directorate here is responsible for so many things happening in the United States Air Force. Your work here provides the backbone, infrastructure, and the technology to keep the workforce running,’ said Bailey. “You’ve got a great leader willing to go out front and take the heat for you.”
In 2001, Williams entered the Air Force through the University of Utah’s Air Force ROTC program where he received a Bachelor of Science in finance and information. He holds three master’s degrees, the most recent he earned from National Defense University in 2018.
His awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Air Force Organizational Excellence Award with one oak leaf cluster, and the National Defense Service Medal.
The directorate is headquartered at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, with additional units located at Joint Base San Antonio and Gunter Annex.