Linda Cureton, Ph.D.

Certified WOSB | Board Member | CEO at Muse Technologies, Inc. | former NASA Chief Information Officer | TEDx Speaker | Complexity Leadership Expert

Bowie, Maryland, United States

About

Former CIO of NASA and government technology leader. Current CEO of Muse, a growing management consulting company. Decades of extensive experience with a strong background in Information Technology management to include experience as a CIO at the federal cabinet level. Known as innovator and change agent. Social media and cloud pioneer in the federal government. Skilled in managing large organizations especially successful in budget, resource, financial and human resource planning. An experienced and effective change leader with proven ability to effect a positive transformation of an organization.

Experience

  • Adjunct Professor at University of Maryland Eastern Shore
    Jan 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 7 mos

    Adjunct Professor — Cybersecurity & Organizational Leadership Programs In the Cybersecurity program, I guide doctoral students through the research process to successfully complete their dissertations, providing instruction in research design, methodology, data analysis, and scholarly writing. I mentor students in formulating research questions, selecting appropriate methods, and interpreting findings to contribute meaningful scholarship to the cybersecurity field. In the Organizational Leadership program, I teach introductory statistics and applied research methods, including the use of SPSS for data analysis. My instruction emphasizes practical statistical concepts, data interpretation, and hands-on experience with statistical software to prepare students for empirical research and data-driven leadership decision-making.

  • CEO at Muse Technologies, Inc.
    Apr 2013 - Present · 13 yrs 4 mos

    Founder and CEO of an SBA 8(a) IT consulting firm specializing in organizational transformation, digital modernization, and technology strategy. Lead the development and execution of enterprise IT solutions that cut through industry hype and focus on pragmatic, results-driven innovation. Align technology initiatives with organizational culture, mission needs, and business objectives to maximize client impact. Provide strategic advisory services to CIOs and senior IT leaders, offering expert guidance on IT governance, enterprise architecture, digital equity, cybersecurity, and organizational change. In addition to leading technical strategy, oversee all aspects of business operations, including financial management, business development, client acquisition, and contract negotiation. Build and lead high-performing teams, cultivate strategic partnerships, and ensure sustainable growth while maintaining operational excellence and delivering exceptional client value. Design and deliver executive-level training, workshops, and webinars on artificial intelligence, leadership development, and professional soft skills, supporting clients in building AI literacy, adaptive leadership capacity, and organizational resilience.

  • Board Member at Air Force Museum Foundation
    Aug 2022 - Present · 4 yrs

    Serve on the Board of Trustees for the Air Force Museum Foundation, providing strategic oversight and governance in support of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. As a member of the Development Committee, contribute to fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and philanthropic initiatives that advance the museum’s mission to preserve and promote the legacy of the United States Air Force through education, outreach, and public exhibits.

  • Engineering for Professionals Advisory Board Member at The Johns Hopkins University
    Apr 2020 - Present · 6 yrs 4 mos

    Serve as an advisory board member providing strategic guidance on curriculum development, emerging technology trends, and workforce readiness for the Engineering for Professionals program. Offer industry insight to help align academic offerings with the evolving needs of engineering, cybersecurity, and technology leadership fields. Collaborate with university leadership, faculty, and fellow industry experts to support academic excellence, program innovation, and student career outcomes.

  • Board Member at DC Youth Orchestra Program
    Jan 2012 - Feb 2025 · 13 yrs 2 mos

    Served on the Board of Directors for the DC Youth Orchestra Program, providing governance, fiduciary oversight, and strategic direction to advance the organization’s mission of music education and youth development. As Board Secretary, maintained accurate records and facilitated effective board operations. Contributed to long-term organizational planning as a member of the Strategic Planning Committee, advising on institutional growth, sustainability, and community engagement initiatives.