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Brett McKinney
Senior Security Engineer at The Walt Disney Company
Professional Background
Brett McKinney is an accomplished information security professional with extensive experience in various facets of cybersecurity, a disciplined approach to technology, and a strong commitment to continuous learning and excellence in the field. Over the years, Brett has cultivated a diverse skill set that encompasses application security, penetration testing, wireless security, third-party security assessments, and risk management. His journey through the realms of cybersecurity showcases his dedication to safeguarding digital assets and promoting security best practices.
Brett's career trajectory includes significant roles at some of the most respected organizations. Currently, he serves as a Senior Security Engineer at The Walt Disney Company, where he leads efforts to ensure security across a myriad of platforms and services. His role underscores his expertise in not just identifying vulnerabilities but also in developing robust security programs tailored to dynamic environments.
Before joining Disney, Brett's comprehensive experience at PwC as a Senior Manager of Application Security Testing and Application Security Manager for Penetration Testing allowed him to refine his technical skills and lead teams in critical assessment initiatives. In these roles, he was instrumental in shaping security strategies that mitigated risks associated with emerging technologies and applications.
Additionally, Brett has held positions as a Security and Compliance Specialist and IT Security and Compliance Analyst at The Walt Disney Company, strengthening his connection to one of the world's leading entertainment corporations. His earlier experience at Publix as a Security Analyst provided him with foundational knowledge and insights that propelled his success in the field.
Education and Achievements
Brett's educational foundation plays a crucial role in his career achievements. He holds a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity from the Florida Institute of Technology, where he developed a sophisticated understanding of security frameworks and methodologies pertinent to today's digital landscape. Brett's dedication to education began with earning a Bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems from the Florida State University - College of Business, where he understood the intersection of technology and business processes.
These educational experiences equipped Brett with the theoretical and practical tools needed to address complex security challenges effectively and developed his analytical skills required for thorough risk assessments and vulnerability analyses.
Brett's commitment to education and professional development is evident as he continuously engages in self-learning and stays up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the security domain.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Brett McKinney has achieved several key accomplishments that attest to his expertise and dedication to the field of cybersecurity. He has successfully led and executed numerous application security testing initiatives, leveraging his penetration testing skills to ensure robust defenses against potential threats. His role in developing security programs and processes at The Walt Disney Company has been pivotal, enabling better alignment of security measures with business objectives.
Furthermore, Brett's ability to produce comprehensive documentation associated with security assessments and program development has helped organizations maintain compliance with applicable regulations and standards, ensuring a high level of security governance.
Through leadership roles at PwC, he has fostered a culture of security awareness and collaboration, guiding cross-functional teams toward a more secure operational posture. His experiences with engaging third-party security assessments have also enhanced the security frameworks needed for trust and compliance in an ever-evolving digital marketplace.
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