In an era where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, it is imperative for businesses to fortify their digital defenses against potential attacks. Leading the charge in this critical endeavor is Mike Crandall, the founder and CEO of Digital Beachhead, a Veterans Administration certified Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) specializing in Cyber Security, Information Technology, and Professional Services.
With a remarkable background in information technology and cybersecurity, Mike Crandall’s journey is an inspiring testament to his commitment to protecting organizations from cyber threats. A graduate of Western Governors University with a BS in Information Technology Security and an MBA in Information Technology Management, Mike began his illustrious career in the United States Air Force (USAF), where he served for 20 years and played a pivotal role in designing, securing, and managing emerging network technologies.
Among his achievements during his time in the USAF, Mike’s ground-breaking team introduced the concept of creating Demilitarized Zones (DMZs) within a network, which later evolved into the USAF’s widely adopted “Barrier Reef” defense in depth concept. Additionally, he was instrumental in establishing the USAF’s first-ever Network Security and Operations Center (NOSC) at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, and played a key role in managing the operations and security of the $50 Billion Air Force Satellite Control Network.
After retiring from the USAF in 2010, Mike Crandall embarked on a mission to make cybersecurity accessible to organizations of all sizes. “The biggest thing facing the cybersecurity, cyber risk management industry is the lack of qualified personnel,” he emphasizes. To address this challenge, Mike actively teaches cybersecurity courses at the University of Nevada Las Vegas and Colorado University Boulder, mentoring and preparing the next generation of cybersecurity experts.
As the visionary behind the concept of the “Digital Beachhead,” a term later used by United States Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn III, Mike’s company has grown from a startup to opening offices in Virginia, Las Vegas, and London, Ontario, Canada. Digital Beachhead is now a reputable force in the industry, providing Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) services to Federal, State, and local Governments, as well as small and mid-size organizations.
One of Digital Beachhead’s most notable offerings is the Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) service. Mike explains, “Yeah, this is our biggest offer. And many small to medium-sized businesses have fractional CFOs as their financial officers. We’re doing that same thing, but we’re doing it for your security.”
“We can come in and kind of help you evaluate and guide you to the best cybersecurity solution. As a fractional cost instead of hiring someone full time,” Mike continues. This approach enables businesses to leverage the expertise of seasoned cybersecurity professionals without the financial burden of a full-time hire.
Digital Beachhead’s dedication to excellence in the field has not gone unnoticed. Wealth and Finance International recognized the company as the most trusted cybersecurity consulting firm in 2022, and in 2023, they were honored with the Innovation Excellence Award for their outstanding contributions to cybersecurity in the space industry.
Mike Crandall’s clientele includes small to medium-sized businesses looking to bolster their cybersecurity posture but face limitations in budget and resources. “We effectively bridge your gaps in cybersecurity. If you allow us to come in and help you, we can take what you want to spend and spend it wisely versus spending it because the coolest tool you saw on TV or the internet came up” Mike asserts.
The mission of Digital Beachhead and its visionary leader, Mike Crandall, is to shatter the misconception that effective cybersecurity is out of reach for smaller organizations. By offering fractional cybersecurity solutions and imparting their extensive knowledge, Digital Beachhead is making the digital realm safer for all businesses.
“Though the cyber world may seem intimidating, it is not an insurmountable challenge,” Mike emphasizes. “We hope to empower businesses with the knowledge that affordable cybersecurity solutions are within reach.”
For more information about Digital Beachhead and its cybersecurity services, please visit their website.
