Dan Debeaubien

Background

About Dan Debeaubien

As the Head of Innovation at SANS Institute, I lead AI research and chair both the AI policy and product working groups. My leadership in these groups has resulted in the authorship of SANS' key AI policies and the establishment of the AI Resource Center, dedicated to prioritizing and implementing AI-related projects at SANS. Our team has developed advanced AI toolsets, training models, and a groundbreaking cybersecurity AI for SANS. Additionally, I have authored "SANS AIS247 – AI Security Essentials," offering crucial insights for business leaders in the AI domain. Bringing 35 years of experience in information technology, my career includes a notable period as the CTO of Michigan Technological University. Since joining SANS Institute in 2014, I have applied my expertise across various sectors, from Security Awareness to SANS OnDemand, contributing significantly to product development and training initiatives. Prior to my tenure at SANS, my career highlights include: Leading the creation of multiple IT strategic plans in collaboration with senior executives and IT leaders. Managing over 85 IT professionals, overseeing all areas including engineering, programming, telecommunications, helpdesk, operations, and infrastructure. Establishing key roles such as the Chief Information Security Officer, the Chief Information Compliance Officer, and IT Project Manager. Directing successful major IT projects ranging from $500K to $2.5M, encompassing infrastructure, software, hardware, and outsourcing initiatives. Recruiting and hiring more than 50 professional staff across various IT divisions. Developing IT organizational structures, including compensation, classification studies, and reporting systems. Overseeing the implementation of significant security and compliance initiatives, such as the Information Security Plan, Acceptable Use Policy, Incident Response Plan, Security Awareness Training Plan, and Data Classification and Protection Plan. Regularly delivering presentations and briefings at executive meetings, professional conferences, and institutional forums on strategic, budgetary, technological, security, and engineering matters.