I started my career as a systems engineer and information security manager for a defense contractor supporting USAF contracts that included field deployments to the Middle East. I held a Top-Secret DoD clearance and led security programs for active military deployments. That experience shaped how I think about risk: stakes are real, systems have to work, and there’s no substitute for being prepared.

For the past 15 years I’ve led the information security and data privacy program at a liberal arts college. I’ve built these programs from scratch into a full institutional function and partner that understands the campus environment. I’ve handled real data breaches, negotiated hundreds of vendor contracts, implemented enterprise-wide identity management and MFA, and led the institution’s AI governance initiative. When I say I’ve done this work, I mean I’ve done it - not just advised on it.

I hold CISM and CIPM certifications, am SCRUM certified, and earned my MBA in Technology Management with a concentration on Human Resource Management - security starts and ends with people. I serve on consortia based boards, chair affinity groups discussions, and contribute regularly to educational conferences as an author, presenter, and podcast guest.

I’m based in Sauquoit, NY. I’m an avid runner (15 marathons), a former youth AYSO soccer coach, and a husband and father. Security, to me, is ultimately about protecting people and the things they care about. That’s why I do this work.