TheBridge profile: Stephen Boyce

Name: Stephen Boyce

Current city: Washington, DC

Current job: Director at Magnet Forensics; Adjunct Professor at Marymount University

Past job: Senior Advisor at IFES; Principal Consultant/vCISO at Palo Alto Networks (The Crypsis Group); Digital Media Exploitation & Digital Forensics at the FBI; Pathways Information Technology Specialist at the U.S. Department of State

Q. How are you currently bridging the gap between innovation and regulation? The diffusion of innovation theory is a great way to approach the gap between innovation and regulation. Societal change is never met with overwhelming excitement and speed; however, balancing two through communication and trust helps to break down barriers.

Q. Job advice in three words? Foster strong relationships

Q. What can innovators learn from policymakers? Innovators can learn that policymaking is akin to seeking funding from an investor. Policymakers receive 1000s of requests for attention from constituents, businesses, and vendors.

Q. What can policymakers learn from innovators? Policymakers can learn that many innovators want to impact society positively and would welcome engaging in thought-provoking dialogue.

Q. Can you describe a skill you have carried throughout your career that has always proved to be valuable? A problem-solving skill I have carried throughout my career that has proved valuable is focusing on the issue, which has helped me navigate office politics and gain buy-in from key stakeholders.

Q. What is the best job interview question you have ever been asked? “Tell us a time when you've had to explain something technical to a group of non technical people?”

Q. Favorite spot for a coffee meeting? Bluestone Lane West End Café

Q. Favorite book/podcast/long-form article you recommend? The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers

Q. Why are you part of TheBridge community? Why do you think it's important this community exists for tech, policy and political professionals? Non-partisan communities like TheBridge are important because many of the problems we are trying to solve individually is better served through proactive communication and collaboration.

Q. Every day is probably different, but are there certain skills you think are essential to your job? Humility, communication, and empathy.

Q. Startup to watch? Living Security

Q. How do you unwind after work? Head to the driving range with my headphones

Q. Favorite app? TripIt

Q. If you had to live in another city, which would it be? London

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