Dr. Mark Richards
About Dr. Mark Richards
Dr. Mark Richards serves as the Engineering Technical Lead at SANS Institute, where he has worked since 2011, focusing on virtual security training. He holds multiple advanced degrees in theology and computer science, and has extensive experience in software engineering and web security.
Work at SANS Institute
Dr. Mark Richards has served as the Engineering Technical Lead at SANS Institute since 2011. In this role, he has focused on developing a web-based Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) tailored for security training, emphasizing the human aspect of security. His responsibilities include PHP development, database development, application testing, data integrity testing, and security testing. Dr. Richards has also completed specialized training in Developing Defensible Applications, Web Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking, and Advanced Web Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking at SANS Institute.
Education and Expertise
Dr. Mark Richards holds multiple degrees from various institutions. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Scientific Option from the University of West Florida from 1986 to 1990. He later obtained a Master of Science in Software Engineering from the same university in 1992. Additionally, he has achieved several doctorates from the International Miracle Institute, including a Doctorate of Divinity (DD), a Doctorate of Christian Theology (ThD), and a Doctorate of Ministry (DMin). His expertise includes integrating SAML (Single Sign-On) clients into training environments and securing web servers against web-based attacks.
Background
Before joining SANS Institute, Dr. Mark Richards was the CEO and Software Engineer at Richards Consulting Group LLC from 2010 to 2015 in the Pensacola, Florida area. He also worked as a Senior Software Engineer at DFAS from 1997 to 2010, where he gained extensive experience in software engineering. Dr. Richards began his educational journey at Okaloosa-Walton Community College, where he studied Communication Arts and earned an Associate of Arts degree from 1977 to 1980.
Professional Experience
Dr. Mark Richards has a diverse professional background in software engineering and technical leadership. His role at DFAS as a Senior Software Engineer spanned 13 years, during which he developed skills in various areas of software development. At SANS Institute, he has been instrumental in creating security training solutions and ensuring the integrity and security of applications. His work involves significant contributions to PHP development and application testing, highlighting his commitment to advancing security education.