Dean earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at Memorial University in Newfoundland. After completing his degree, he worked for a Canadian Telecommunications company as Security Analyst, and Senior Security Specialist in a vulnerability assessment, ethical hacking and incident handling role for over a decade.
Dean is an active member of the security community, coaching students in the field, mentoring and encouraging others to obtain renowned professional certifications, attending top conferences (DefCon, Blackhat, SANS Events and Summits, Bsides, etc.), and speaking on the Industrial Control System threat landscape and ICS defense.
Dean holds the following security designations – CISSP, GSLC (Cybersecurity Leadership), GCIA (Cyber Intrusion Analyst), GRID (Industrial Control System Response and Defense). While working at a high-level most of the time, Dean keeps his technical skills sharp paying close attention to the ‘devil in the details’ by overseeing Security Operations, Malware Analysis and active Cyber defense. In the run of a day its common for Dean to be working at the packet level or the policy level at the same time.
When not focused on security, Dean spends his time boating and exploring the coast of Newfoundland, climbing icebergs, playing piano or riding motorcycles year-round through all weather.
Favorite quote: “Do. Or do not. There is no try.” – Yoda.