Nael Samha is the Director of Passenger Systems and Biometrics in the Targeting and Analysis Systems Program Directorate (TASPD) for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Information and Technology (OIT). Director Samha is currently leading the transformation of the Automated Targeting Systems including ATS-Passenger, ATS Land, and Targeting Framework under the Unified Passenger enterprise System. Additional responsibilities includes the development of the Global Travel Assessment Systems and expansion of the current ATS-Global program. Director Samha is also leading the Biometrics programs for CBP and DHS.
The Office of Information and Technology enables the day-to-day operations of CBP computer and tactical communications facilities and systems, including hardware, software, data, video, and voice communications. The mission of the Targeting and Analysis Systems Program Directorate (TASPD) is to provide solutions that support CBP inspection and enforcement activities to help CBP Officers and analysts protect our borders and safeguard America. TASPD is responsible for enhancing, administering, and maintaining intelligence and selectivity and targeting systems and related systems that help secure the supply chain and support CBP’s layered defense strategy for international cargo and passengers. Passenger systems are vital to support the CBP mission.
Director Samha was recognized with a Samuel J. Heyman, Service to America Medal in 2012 as Homeland Security Medal recipient for a significant contribution to the nation in activities related to homeland security (including border and transportation security, emergency preparedness and response, intelligence, and law enforcement). He created a smartphone application that allows customs and border agents in the field to access law enforcement databases in real time, which has led to enforcement actions against drug traffickers, weapons smugglers, illegal aliens and potential terror suspects since March 2010.
Director Samha led the international technical discussions for CBP/DHS with many International foreign partners, guiding technical design concepts to reality by implementing transparent and collaborative technical platforms across teams. These include the development and establishment of Pre-Clearance and Joint Security Programs worldwide.
Director Samha also led development and successful deployment of the first-in-government Biometrics program that enhances the Entry /Exit process and travel experience using the latest cloud and algorithm technologies. The CBP Commissioner and the Secretary of Homeland Security recognized him two consecutive years (2016-2018) for this accomplishment.
Director Samha graduated George Washington University with a Master’s of Science
Information technology.