Pete is an accomplished business leader, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), and Congressional Advisor on systems and infrastructure security. His research and creation of advanced and pioneering cybersecurity tools have earned him widespread recognition as a thought leader. He speaks on topics such as cyber defense, national security, AI, and entrepreneurship at cybersecurity events, conferences, and in the media.
With over 30 years of experience in information technology, cybersecurity, behavioral analytics, and machine learning, Pete’s expertise spans software engineering, product development, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies. He has designed and architected innovative software solutions for both commercial and intelligence communities.
Pete is a patented inventor, a Fellow at the Institute for Critical Infrastructure Technology (ICIT), and a member of the Forbes Technology Council. In his roles as CTO and CISO, he has spearheaded the creation of groundbreaking cybersecurity products utilizing AI and machine learning to detect and respond to cyber threats in real time. These initiatives have significantly increased company valuations and positioned organizations as leaders in the cybersecurity industry.
His leadership at Nitro Solutions was marked by significant national recognitions, including:
Pete’s strategic contributions to national cybersecurity policy, including advisory roles on high-impact commissions, have influenced critical legislation and shaped forward-looking cybersecurity strategies. He continues to advocate for the security of our nation’s critical infrastructure through his work as a Fellow at leading think tanks.
Pete is a prolific author, contributor, consultant, and blogger, actively sharing his insights and expertise in cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, and national defense. A core part of Pete’s ethos is his commitment to advancing awareness in these critical areas. His influential publications and blog posts continue to shape cybersecurity discourse and policy, as well as inform and educate a diverse audience, from consumers to business leaders, about today's and tomorrow's pressing cyber threats.
Below, you will find a curated selection of Pete's work. From detailed reports to comprehensive guides, each piece not only showcases his deep involvement in the field, but also his dedication to addressing the challenges in the cybersecurity domain.
Pete's fascination with computers and network interoperability began in the era of emerging computer technology. Eager to learn everything about them, he started his career journey long before leaving school.
Throughout his career, Pete mastered various programming languages and techniques, quickly becoming the go-to expert for difficult or challenging projects. As his knowledge and reputation grew, so did his ability to tackle complex technology problems.
Security has always been Pete's passion, and his relentless curiosity and problem-solving skills have helped him become a thought leader and authority in cybersecurity. In addition, his life-long love for problem-solving and learning have informed his approach to leadership. In the 30+ years of his career, he has been committed to building work cultures that value learning, innovation, and creative thinking.
As a patented inventor, Pete has led technical teams in product development and management, research and development, and business strategy. He advises chief information security officers, boards of directors, and government officials on security practices and strategies to help manage the business risks associated with cybersecurity. To learn more about Pete's insights on leadership and team building, please click on the following links:
Pete’s professional journey is matched by a rich personal life. Originally from the United Kingdom, Pete moved to the United States in 1995 and became a US citizen. He has lived in Washington, D.C., Colorado, and Florida, and currently resides with his family in Austin, Texas.
When he's not busy designing and implementing security innovations or researching vulnerabilities, Pete enjoys reading and spending time with his wife and children.