“40 under 40” Class of 2019 — Travis May, 39

Travis May's role recently changed at Mastercard, where he has been for nearly� six years, moving from director of North America Regional & Global Event Security to director of Learning Technology & Innovation.

“I am responsible for the design, development and execution of the learning technology and innovation strategy for Mastercard,” said May. “This includes researching and evaluating new and emerging technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, artificial intelligence and advanced communications technologies for implementation into Mastercard's technology ecosystem. Identifying, testing, piloting, planning and scaling solutions is a significant part of the role. To successfully carry out the responsibilities, close partnerships and collaboration across multiple departments, vendors, and stakeholders is a necessity.”

May's decision to get into the security industry began when he joined the Marine Corps in 1999. “It's the epic battle of good vs. evil and the ability to connect with a purpose that's larger than oneself.” Looking to the future, May said, “Consistent integration of advanced technologies as well as investment into the training of talent is imperative for the security industry's future.”� He continued, “Over time, AI can revolutionize many areas of the industry such as threat monitoring, access management, user behavior analytics, operations management, investigations and intelligence collection.” VR & AR technology will also have “tremendously positive impacts on the industry, from training to collaboration to storytelling,” said May. “They will also provide cost saving opportunities and enhanced operational effectiveness. With AI, VR and AR combined, the impossible will be realized in the coming years.”

One way to get more young professionals into security is to “capitalize on their need to belong to something bigger than themselves, as well as their need to serve a greater purpose, and ensure they know how they serve that purpose in your specific organization,” he said.