On Veterans Day, we honor the service members whose dedication, ingenuity, and leadership have shaped the world we live in. At runZero, we want to recognize two remarkable women whose contributions continue to influence the fields of computing and cybersecurity today: Grace Hopper and Jen Easterly.
Grace Hopper: The architect of modern computing #
Few figures have left as enduring a mark on technology as Rear Admiral Grace Hopper. A trailblazing computer scientist and U.S. Navy officer, Hopper revolutionized the way humans interact with computers. Her pioneering work on programming languages — most notably COBOL — helped define modern software development and remains foundational to critical systems around the world.
Hopper’s legacy is one of curiosity, persistence, and an unshakeable belief that technology should empower people. Her vision continues to inspire engineers, security practitioners, and innovators everywhere.
Jen Easterly: A leader in cybersecurity and national resilience #
As a former senior U.S. government official and a leading voice in cybersecurity, Jen Easterly has shaped national policy and strengthened public-private collaboration in the face of evolving threats. Her work has helped advance collective defense, improve national cyber readiness, and elevate the importance of security across industries.
Easterly’s leadership reminds us that safeguarding the digital ecosystem requires both technical rigor and a commitment to the people behind the technology. Her contributions continue to influence how organizations understand and manage cyber risk today.
Honoring service, innovation, and impact #
Grace Hopper and Jen Easterly represent two eras of service and two extraordinary paths, each defined by a dedication to making technology safer, more usable, and more resilient. Their work continues to ripple through the cybersecurity community, shaping how we think, build, and defend.
Today, we honor them (and all veterans!) whose service and ingenuity move our world forward.
