WashingtonExec’s Amanda Ziadeh sits down with guest JR Williamson as he shares his unique ⏤ and at times challenging ⏤ upbringing, as he moved nearly 21 times by the age of 15, largely because of his family dynamic. Still, the senior vice president and chief information security officer at Leidos considers himself a native Northern Virginian.

He candidly discusses the role his mother played in his and his siblings’ lives, working multiple jobs to provide while struggling with mental illness. Williamson and his siblings supported each other, while he stayed on top of athletics, academics and work. It wasn’t always easy, and his educational path wasn’t as straightforward as others, but he put himself through college and graduated with a degree from George Mason University.

The interview also covers how Williamson’s early interests led him to a career in security, detailing his 23-year tenure at Northrop Grumman before joining Leidos. Additionally, he shares why his family is passionate about supporting the local sports community.