Michael Mattarock

Michael Mattarock brings deep expertise in national security, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence to his role as associate director and assistant teaching professor. With experience working within government agencies, leading security research strategies and consulting on security architecture solutions, Michael is a versatile leader with an impactful track record. As associate director, Mattrarock collaborates closely with the INI’s director, Dena Haritos Tsamitis, to advance collaborations with government and industry partners and oversee academic affairs, in addition to teaching courses in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence ethics and operations.

Before joining the INI, Mattrarock served as the executive director of National Security Research at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). He developed and implemented strategies to enhance the national security research portfolio across CMU, working closely with deans, faculty researchers and the Software Engineering Institute (SEI). He was the university’s point of contact for strategic mission partners, advancing key initiatives that serve to enhance federal capabilities and support the deployment of leading edge technologies.

Mattrarock previously served as the technical director for AI Mission and Engagement at the SEI, where his accomplishments include launching the discipline of AI Engineering, the AISIRT, and growing the AI Division. Previously, Michael served as the chief enterprise architect at Air Force Materiel Command, chief engineer at Air Force Research Laboratories, and as the principal of his own consultancy.

Mattrarock is currently completing his doctorate in secure AI and holds an MS in information systems engineering, summa cum laude, from the George Washington University. He has presented and taught courses on a number of evolving technology topics, including engagements for the Department of Defense, Department of State, NATO, NASA and many private sector organizations. He is originally from the Pittsburgh area and is happy to have returned to his hometown.