Michael Blache

Michael Blache has a diverse work experience in various roles and industries. Michael started their career in the United States Air Force as a Cryptologic Linguist from 1995 to 2001. After that, they worked as an IT Director at Vacation Reservation Systems, Inc. from 2001 to 2003. Michael then joined Augusta Information Technologies, LLC as a Network Administrator from 2003 to 2004.

In 2004, Blache became the Director of Information Technology at TaxSlayer, LLC, where they managed all IT department operations for over ten years. In 2015, they were promoted to Chief Information Security Officer at TaxSlayer, LLC. In this role, they strategically developed and implemented information security programs, ensuring compliance with security standards like PCI DSS, NIST, and ISO.

In addition to their corporate roles, Blache also has experience as an Adjunct Instructor at Augusta Technical College since 2020, where they impart their knowledge to students. Michael is also a Member of the Board of Directors for the National Technology Security Coalition (NTSC), a non-profit organization that advocates for CISOs and cybersecurity standards.

Overall, Michael Blache has demonstrated expertise in information technology, security, and management throughout their career.

Michael Blache earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Information Technology from South University, which they completed between 2006 and 2009. Michael furthered their education by pursuing a Master of Science (MS) degree in Computer and Information Systems Security/Information Assurance from Norwich University from 2011 to 2013.

Additionally, Michael has obtained several certifications to enhance their expertise. In 2006, they obtained the GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) certification from GIAC Certifications. Michael went on to acquire the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification from (ISC)² in 2012. In 2013, they obtained the EMC Proven Professional Certification from EMC. Michael earned the ITIL Foundation Level certification from ITIL Certified in 2014.

Continuing their pursuit of knowledge and skills, Michael further obtained the GIAC Certified UNIX Security Administrator (GCUX) certification in 2018 and the GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst (GCIA) certification in 2018, both from GIAC Certifications. In 2019, they earned the GIAC Certified Windows Security Administrator (GCWN) certification, also from GIAC Certifications. Most recently, in 2022, Michael achieved the GIAC Security Leadership Certification (GSLC) from GIAC Certifications.