Douglas Hitchen
About Douglas Hitchen
Douglas Hitchen is a Senior Security Engineer at SANS Institute with over 35 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity. He holds multiple GIAC certifications and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Information Security Engineering.
Current Role at SANS Institute
Douglas Hitchen serves as a Senior Security Engineer at SANS Institute, a position he has held since 2019. In this role, he applies his extensive knowledge and experience in IT and cybersecurity to enhance the security of systems and applications. His responsibilities include implementing security measures and ensuring the integrity of infrastructure. Prior to this position, he worked as Technical Director for Security Infrastructure at SANS Institute from 2016 to 2019.
Education and Expertise
Douglas Hitchen has a solid educational background in cybersecurity and information security. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Information Security Engineering at SANS Technology Institute. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance from Western Governors University in 2018. Additionally, he studied Business Administration and Management at The University of Toledo from 1986 to 1989. Hitchen holds multiple GIAC certifications, including GIAC Security Essentials Gold (GSEC), GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), and GIAC Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN).
Professional Background
Douglas Hitchen has over 35 years of experience in the IT and cybersecurity sectors. He began his career at CompuCom as a Senior Consultant from 1990 to 1998. He then served as Vice President of Information Systems at Investors Title Company and Affiliates from 1998 to 2003. Following this, he worked as a Security Officer and Infrastructure Architect at the same company until 2007. Hitchen also held the position of IT/Security Director at Credit Risk Management Analytics, L.L.C. from 2007 to 2016.
Achievements and Certifications
Douglas Hitchen has achieved several notable certifications in the field of cybersecurity. He holds the GIAC Security Essentials Gold (GSEC), GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), and GIAC Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN) certifications. These certifications reflect his expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards in cybersecurity practices. His hands-on approach and holistic understanding of security systems contribute to his effectiveness in his current role.
Personal Interests
In addition to his professional pursuits, Douglas Hitchen enjoys connecting with others who share his interests in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. He is also an avid rockhound, often exploring the mountains and rivers of North Carolina with his family in search of hidden gems. This personal passion complements his professional focus on security and technology.