Will Ballard Hurd was born on August 19, 1977, in San Antonio, Texas, to Mary Alice and Robert Hurd. He grew up alongside his brother, Chuck, and sister, Elizabeth. Hurd attended John Marshall High School in Leon Valley, Texas, where he excelled academically and was actively involved in extracurricular activities.
After graduating from high school, Hurd pursued higher education at Texas A&M University. In 2000, he graduated with a degree in computer science and a minor in international relations. His time at Texas A&M not only equipped him with the technical skills needed for a successful career but also fostered his interest in global affairs.
Following his graduation, Hurd embarked on a distinguished career in the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). From 2000 to 2009, he served in various covert roles, utilizing his expertise in technology and international relations to combat national security threats. Hurd's dedication and exceptional performance earned him recognition within the intelligence community.
After leaving the CIA, Hurd returned to Texas and leveraged his experience to transition into the private sector. He became a partner at Crumpton Group LLC, a strategic advisory firm, where he provided invaluable insights to clients navigating complex geopolitical landscapes. Additionally, he served as a senior adviser at FusionX, a cybersecurity firm, where he played a pivotal role in developing cutting-edge solutions to safeguard digital infrastructure.
In 2015, Hurd entered the political arena by running for the U.S. representative seat in Texas's 23rd congressional district. His background in national security and tech innovation resonated with voters, and he secured a landslide victory. Throughout his tenure in Congress from 2015 to 2021, Hurd championed bipartisan collaboration and advocated for policies that promoted economic growth and cybersecurity.
Notably, Hurd made history as the only African-American Republican in the House of Representatives from 2019 to 2021. His unique perspective and ability to bridge ideological divides set him apart as a leader committed to finding common ground for the betterment of all Americans.
Throughout his life, Hurd has remained dedicated to serving his community and country with integrity and passion. His unwavering commitment to public service and his innovative approach to addressing complex challenges have earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and constituents alike.
As a statesman, businessman, and advocate for progress, Will Ballard Hurd continues to make a lasting impact on the world around him, embodying the principles of leadership, courage, and resilience.