Kate Vajda

Kate Vajda has a diverse work experience in the field of cybersecurity. Kate started their career in 2006 as a Teller at Cash Plus, Inc. where they also managed networking and server equipment. Later, they worked as a Technician at Central Advanced Network Architecture Laboratory, providing technical support for servers and networking equipment. In 2009, they became an ITCoP Intern at Consumers Energy, where they conducted quality assurance and managed projects related to auditing smart meters.

In 2010, Kate returned to Consumers Energy as an Application Server Team Intern, focusing on managing UNIX servers and automating software upgrades. Kate then joined Central Michigan University as a Manager/Supervisor, overseeing research projects in networking and computer science.

In 2011, Kate worked in various roles at Consumers Energy, including a Critical Infrastructure Support Intern, Technical Analyst I, and Application Server Team/Enterprise Storage Systems Intern. Kate gained experience in managing and maintaining SCADA environments, network infrastructure, and corporate servers.

From 2015 to 2021, Kate worked as an Adjunct Professor at Jackson College, teaching courses on hacker techniques, network administration, and cybersecurity. Kate developed curriculum, conducted labs, and challenged students to apply real-world techniques.

In 2017, Kate joined Secure Ideas as a Senior Security Consultant, performing penetration tests, conducting physical assessments, and reviewing security architecture. Kate also volunteered at the Car Hacking Village, managing CTF challenges and logistics during DEFCON.

Currently, Kate is the Director of Vulnerability and Malware Threat Research at Dragos, Inc. In this role, they enable and empowers a team of researchers, identifies organizational needs, and supports the completion of unique OT research efforts. Kate also grows and challenges the team of analysts and reverse engineers.

Kate Vajda earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Information Technology with a specialization in Networking Pro from Central Michigan University from 2007 to 2011. In 2009, they attended Schoolcraft College but did not obtain a degree. Kate Vajda has also obtained several certifications including GIAC Network Forensic Analyst (GNFA), GMON, GCIA, GWAPT, and GCIH.