Michael Galde

Assistant Professor of Practice

With a solid academic foundation from the University of Nebraska, where I earned a Bachelor's in Political Science and a Master's in Cybersecurity, I embarked on a career that has spanned academia, industrial applications, intelligence operations, and cybersecurity research. My journey began as a Intelligence Analyst in the U.S. Army, where I provided crucial information about enemy forces and potential conflict areas during deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. This early experience laid a solid foundation for my subsequent roles, including a position as a Cyber Security Engineer II at the Nebraska Applied Research Institute (NARI). At NARI, I honed my expertise in reverse engineering, vulnerability research, and technical forensic analysis, making significant contributions to understanding cybersecurity risks across various platforms.

Transitioning to academia, I embraced the role of an Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona. Here, I developed and introduced new courses aimed at addressing emerging trends in cybersecurity, such as Introduction to Cyber Operations, Network Analysis and Methods, and Malware Analysis.

Recognized globally for my cybersecurity credentials including the Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP) and GIAC Response and Industrial Defense (GRID), I have shared my insights on prominent media platforms and at key cybersecurity conferences. As I continue my professional journey, my unwavering passion for strengthening cybersecurity postures and developing robust resilience strategies drives me to make meaningful impacts in this ever-evolving field.

Comment from Professor Galde

As an innovative Cyber Operations and Cybersecurity Engineer, I bring a wealth of experience from academia, industrial applications, intelligence operations, to cybersecurity research. Throughout my career, I've created impactful cybersecurity courses, conducted crucial reverse engineering and vulnerability research, and performed technical forensic analysis.
I'm proud to have developed new courses as a Professor at the University of Arizona, enhancing the learning experience for the future cybersecurity workforce. My technical expertise was honed in my role as a Cyber Security Engineer at the Nebraska Applied Research Institute, where I excelled in vulnerability assessments, tool creation, and reverse engineering.
I hold a Master's in Cybersecurity and a Bachelor's in Political Science from the University of Nebraska. I'm globally recognized for my cybersecurity credentials, including the Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP), GIAC Response and Industrial Defense (GRID).
I have shared my insights on prominent media platforms and at key cybersecurity conferences, demonstrating my ability to translate complex cybersecurity concepts for various audiences. With a passion for strengthening cybersecurity postures and developing robust resilience strategies, I'm excited to bring my comprehensive understanding and innovative solutions to any challenging cybersecurity landscape.

Degree(s)

  • M.S., Cybersecurity - University of Nebraska