Abstract: Security analysts are the grunts of the security industry, much like the infantry is the grunts of the Army. While critically important, no one aspires to be a grunt. On the other hand, operators are the elite forces you hear about in the news. This presentation focuses on the similarities between the Army and IT security, and how to go from being a grunt to an operator. It will highlight lessons learned as a former grunt in both.

Bio: Tom was an Infantry squad leader in the US Army serving in Iraq and Afghanistan where he received the Purple Heart. After the Army, Tom joined Rook as a security analyst and quickly progressed to his current position of SOC Manager. In this role, Tom oversees the monitoring, scanning, and incident response for hundreds of enterprise-level companies. Additionally, Tom has spearheaded the transition into 24×7 operations and incorporating ITIL best practices. Tom also worked on the development of multiple proprietary threat intelligence tools. Tom is GCIA certified as well as a participant in GIAC mentor program and on the advisory board.

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