INTERPOL cybersecurity chief visits HCC

One of the world's leading cybersecurity experts visited Houston City College (HCC) on May 29, 2026, to discuss the growing importance of international cooperation in combating cybercrime and protecting critical information systems in an increasingly connected world.

Bjorn Watne, chief information security officer for INTERPOL, addressed students, faculty, business leaders, and technology professionals at HCC's West Loop Campus, sharing insights from his work safeguarding information systems and supporting criminal investigations across nearly 200 nations.

The event provided students with a unique opportunity to learn directly from a global cybersecurity leader whose work helps facilitate international law enforcement cooperation and supports efforts to combat cybercrime, terrorism, fraud, human trafficking and other transnational threats.

Watne described INTERPOL's mission of connecting police agencies across its 196 member countries through secure information-sharing networks that enable authorities to track fugitives, exchange intelligence and respond to emerging global threats.

"With cyber threats and criminal networks operating across borders, international cooperation has never been more important," Watne said. "The ability to securely share information and intelligence in real time is critical to protecting communities across the world."

Based at INTERPOL headquarters in Lyon, France, Watne discussed the challenges of securing vast amounts of sensitive data while working across diverse cultures, legal systems and geopolitical environments.

He noted that INTERPOL's work often involves investigations into some of the world's most serious crimes while also serving a broader mission of "empowering and connecting global law enforcement for a safer world."

During a question-and-answer session, Watne praised HCC's state-of-the-art facilities and encouraged students to build expertise across a wide range of technology disciplines, including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data management and emerging digital technologies.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, he emphasized that employers increasingly seek professionals with both technical knowledge and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing technologies.

HCC Chancellor Margaret Ford Fisher, Ed.D., said bringing global experts such as Watne to campus helps enrich student learning and strengthens HCC's role as a regional leader in workforce development and industry engagement.

"Whether you are a student, an entrepreneur, a business leader, an information technology professional, or a healthcare provider, cybersecurity touches nearly every part of our daily lives," Dr. Ford  Fisher said. "Keeping the digital world safe has become essential to how we live, work, learn and connect."

The event was co-sponsored by HCC and ISACA Houston Chapter, a professional association focused on cybersecurity, risk management, governance and information systems auditing.

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See photos from the event.