Austin Blackmon, Cism, Gsom
About Austin Blackmon, Cism, Gsom
Austin Blackmon is the Cyber Security Operations Center Manager at Ally and an Adjunct Instructor at North Carolina State University, with extensive experience in information security management and IT systems administration.
Title and Current Positions
Austin Blackmon currently holds the position of Cyber Security Operations Center Manager at Ally, where he began working in 2020. In addition to this role, he serves as a Cyber Security Adjunct Instructor at North Carolina State University, a position he has held since 2021. In both roles, Austin leverages his extensive experience in cybersecurity to develop and lead operations and teach emerging professionals.
Education and Expertise
Austin Blackmon earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Technology Support and Training Management from the University of South Carolina, completing his studies in 2004. His educational background is complemented by certifications in CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) and GSOM (GSEC Security Operations Management), which underscore his expertise in cybersecurity and information security management.
Professional Background
Austin Blackmon's career spans several high-profile positions in the cybersecurity field. He served as Information Security Manager at Albemarle Corporation from 2017 to 2020 and at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank from 2010 to 2017. Prior to these roles, he was an IT Systems Administrator at South Carolina Student Loan from 2004 to 2010. Austin's leadership experience also includes his service as Infantry and Primary Marksmanship Instructor in the United States Marine Corps from 1997 to 2001.
Achievements in Cybersecurity
At Ally, Austin Blackmon recruited and managed a cybersecurity operations team, establishing himself as a trusted leader within the organization. He successfully planned and executed technology initiatives with budgets up to $1 million, and his efforts in modernizing Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems addressed significant security gaps. As a Cyber Security Adjunct Instructor, he mentors and coaches junior staff, contributing to the expansion of a new cybersecurity program.