Mark Lester is the Information Security General Manager at the South Carolina Ports Authority, where he leads efforts to enhance cybersecurity resilience across one of the nation’s most critical maritime infrastructures. A graduate of The Citadel and former U.S. Air Force Officer, he brings over 20 years of Department of Defense contracting experience supporting national security missions.​

​In addition to his leadership role at the Port, Mr. Lester serves as an Adjunct Professor in The Citadel’s Department of Cyber and Computer Sciences, bridging academic excellence with real-world cybersecurity challenges. He is an active member of numerous advisory and working groups, including The Citadel Cybersecurity Advisory Board, the FBI Critical Infrastructure Working Group, the U.S. Coast Guard’s Area Maritime Security Committee Cyber Subcommittee, and the South Carolina Council on Competitiveness’ CyberSecureSC initiative.

​Mr. Lester has participated in high-profile cybersecurity exercises such as the U.S. Army Cyber Institute’s Jack Voltaic 2.5 and 3.0 and holds advanced certifications including CISSP, DHS Cyberterrorism Defender, and DHS Cyberterrorism First Responder. Beyond his professional commitments, he plays bagpipes, is an avid reader, periodic chess player, and a licensed Amateur Extra Class ham radio operator.