Robert Brooks

Background

About Robert Brooks

After 21+ years leading IT and cybersecurity operations in the US Air Force, I’ve learned that even the most advanced systems mean nothing without the right people behind them. My military career took me across dozens of countries, leading teams of 175+ and overseeing multimillion-dollar technology programs. During a brief stint in the startup world, I learned something important: innovation and security don't have to be mutually exclusive. Smart organizations don’t choose between moving fast and staying safe, they design security that keeps pace. Whether establishing cybersecurity programs from the ground up, streamlining IT operations, or building a culture where resilience is second nature, I ensure these efforts stick and scale. But what's the most important component? It all starts with empowered teams that understand the bigger picture. When people see not just the "what" but the "why" behind security initiatives, they become the force that makes it all sustainable. I’m always happy to connect and discuss how organizations balance security with agility, develop technical leaders, or apply military leadership principles in civilian environments.