Director

Erik Fretheim   

Director of the Cybersecurity Programs

As the Director of Cyber Security Programs, Dr. Erik Fretheim is responsible for overseeing the BS in Cybersecurity programs on the main campus in Bellingham and in Poulsbo, the Minor and Certificate in Cybersecurity programs in Poulsbo, Cyber Range Poulsbo, and the Cybersecurity and Privacy Initiative of the Internet Studies Center.  He has been in the position since 2016. 

“Western, as a result of its ties to the outstanding cybersecurity programs at Whatcom Community College and other area colleges, is in a unique position to become a leader in education and in the broader community as a multi-disciplinary center for cybersecurity and privacy by working closely with local industries and organizations to ensure their needs are addressed,” Fretheim said. 

Fretheim has master’s and doctorate degrees in electrical engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology. He also has an MBA in International Business from Long Island University and a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering from the U.S. Military Academy.

Dr. Fretheim retired from the US Army after 33 years of service including 19 years on the faculty at the United States Military Academy.  He has previously served as the executive director and professor at the Technology Institute at City University in Seattle; an independent consultant in technology and cyber security; vice president of Peek Engineering; chief technology officer at I5 Digital, and chief information officer at Grange Insurance Group. 

Office: Communications Facility 487
Phone: (360) 650-6879
E-mail: Erik.Fretheim@wwu.edu

 

Erik Fretheim outside under a tree