On first look, a degree in industrial design may not seem like a typical pathway into national security. However, for Ted Maliga, a graduate from NC State University’s College of Design, that connection led to a 25-year career with the U.S. Secret Service. During his tenure as Chief Technology Officer and Assistant Director for the Office of Technological Development and Applied Research, Maliga helped the Secret Service tackle some of the most complicated security challenges. 

The main focus of his unlikely journey was Maliga’s unwavering motivation that shaped his decisions from the very beginning of his career path.

“I’ve always been motivated by solving problems that matter. Early on, I realized I wanted to apply my skills in a way that contributed to something bigger than myself,” said Maliga

“I’ve always been motivated by solving problems that matter. Early on, I realized I wanted to apply my skills in a way that contributed to something bigger than myself,” said Maliga. “The Secret Service offered a unique path where I could combine design, technology and service–working on real-world challenges that directly impacted people’s safety.”

With years of experience under his belt, Maliga became a valuable asset in guiding how the Secret Service approached emerging technologies and security challenges.

“Over time, my role focused on leading the vision and strategy for the Secret Service’s science and technology programs,” said Maliga. “On any given day, that could mean working with teams on new technologies related to explosives detection, drones, robotics or protective systems, while also coordinating with other agencies and preparing for large-scale events. It was a mix of innovation, leadership and constant problem-solving in a very fast-moving environment.”

Maliga didn’t expect for his degree to lead him to this field, but it actually was an extremely important part of his career. His experience in design allowed him to understand the structure of different technologies and enhanced his problem solving skills.

“When I started my career, I didn’t expect that a design degree would lead me into national security, but it ended up being incredibly relevant,” said Maliga. “Many of the technologies we evaluated or protected against were created by designers and engineers pushing boundaries. My design training helped me understand how things are built, how they function, and sometimes how they could be misused. That perspective allowed me to help develop creative, practical solutions to very modern security challenges.”

For Maliga, this creative perspective transformed into a mindset that formed his approach to leadership and invention.

“It helped me approach challenges with creativity and led to opportunities to work on cutting-edge programs supporting not just physical security, but broader national security efforts and the safety of our nation’s leaders. That perspective also positioned me to step into leadership roles, helping shape how technology and innovation were applied to some of the most complex security challenges.”

After 25 years with the U.S. Secret Service, Maliga’s career shows the unexpected ways that design can shape the world beyond its traditional fields. What started as a degree in industrial design turned into a career that was defined by leadership, innovation and service at the top levels of national security. His journey highlights how creative thinking and an open mind can open doors to unlikely paths – leaving a huge impact on technologies that protect the nation.

This post was originally published in College of Design Blog.