Gary Hayslip - VP, Senior Security Advisor for Halcyon.ai
Students: Spring 2026, unless noted otherwise, sessions will be virtual on Zoom.
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Wednesday, Apr 15, 2026 04:30pm - 05:30pm ET
( Register to receive a reminder )
Wednesday, Apr 15, 2026 04:30pm - 05:30pm ET
The AI Arms Race
Apr 15, 2026
Abstract
Ransomware has evolved from basicdigital extortion into a sophisticated, AI-powered threat that's faster,smarter, and more devastating than ever before. In this session, we'll explorehow threat actors are weaponizing artificial intelligence to supercharge theiroperations—from automated reconnaissance and hyper-realistic phishing tomalware that adapts in real-time to evade detection. We'll also examine howAI-driven ransomware exploits supply chain vulnerabilities to create cascadingdisruptions across entire industries.More importantly, we'll discusspractical strategies for fighting back: leveraging AI-powered behavioralanalytics and autonomous response tools, implementing zero-trust architecture,and building true organizational resilience through tested backup and recoveryprocedures. Whether you're in security operations, incident response, orinfrastructure protection, this session will equip you with actionable insightsto shift from a prevention-only mindset to one focused on preparedness andrapid recovery in today's evolving threat landscape.
About the Speaker
innovative security programs that protect billion-dollar enterprises at every touchpoint. He is
intensely focused on driving continuous improvement to maximize the efficiency of security
programs while minimizing costs. As an insightful thought leader, he possesses strong business
acumen and a commitment to organizational mission, values, and goals. He has demonstrated the
ability to collaborate with all levels of an organization to champion new ideas, gain buy-in, and build
consensus. Hayslip brings extensive experience in information technology, security leadership, physical
security, and risk management to his role as the Senior Security Advisor | CISO in Residence for
Halcyon.ai. His previous executive positions include multiple roles as Chief Information Security Officer,
Chief Information Officer, Deputy Director of IT, and Chief Privacy Officer for the U.S. Navy (Active Duty),
the U.S. Navy (Federal Government employee), the City of San Diego, California, Webroot Software, and
SoftBank Investments (Vision Fund & Vision Fund II).
Hayslip is a proven cybersecurity expert with excellent communication and public speaking skills. He is
skilled at explaining complex security and risk concepts to audiences with different levels of
knowledge. Hayslip has earned a reputation as a highly effective communicator, author, and keynote
speaker. He co-authored the "CISO Desk Reference Guide: A Practical Guide for CISOs – Volumes 1 & 2,"
"The Executive Primer: An Executive's Guide to Security Programs," "Developing Your Cybersecurity
Career Path," and the "The Essential Guide to Cybersecurity for SMBs." He recently coauthored and
published "Mastering Third Party Risk," a guide aimed specifically for security practitioners to help them
manage the risk exposure to organizations from vendors and supply chains. These books are among the
top resources for helping CISOs improve their leadership and business skills. Hayslip currently serves as
an independent director on several boards and advises various other security and technology firms. He
is an active member of the cybersecurity community and belongs to professional organizations such as
ISC2, NACD, ISACA, and Infragard. Hayslip holds several professional certifications, including CISSP, CISA,
and CRISC, and has earned a BS in Information Systems Management from the University of Maryland,
University College, and an MBA from San Diego State University.
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