CHAPTER DIRECTOR

John Taylor (JT) is an experienced technical people leader who began his cybersecurity career in January 2020 as a security analyst at Arctic Wolf Networks. Before that, he was continuing his education in Information Systems at Southern Utah University, and then transferred to Brigham Young University - Idaho where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology in December of 2019.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he rose in his company to assume new SOC roles like Triage Security Engineer, and later, Manager of Security Operations. Throughout his time in the industry, he has fostered and strengthened a variety of skills, including on-site and remote team management, cybersecurity fundamentals, and advocacy for innovation at scale, among others. More recently, John’s experience has guided him into the role of Security Services Trainer and Content Developer where he continues to magnify his talents of edifying cybersecurity people and fulfilling Arctic Wolf’s mission to end cyber risk.

John is of Honduran-American heritage, so he has enjoyed aspects of both Honduran and American culture his entire life. He also had the unique experience of living in Guatemala completing a service mission for two years from 2015-2017, which gave him a valuable perspective on the daily life and culture of Central American people. John is passionate about empowering Hispanic and Latino people in the cybersecurity and the professional world. In September 2022, he proposed and founded an internal DEI council at Arctic Wolf called Lobos: Hispanic & Latino Pack Unity Alliance.

CHAPTER, DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Sam Aquino is an experienced IT program manager with over 20 years of project and program management expertise. As a natural problem solver, Sam has always been inspired by the opportunity to make a positive impact in the world. That's why joining Raices was an easy decision for him.

Raices' goal of achieving greater representation and diversity in cyberspace and technology resonates deeply with Sam's objective of ensuring proper representation and opportunity for Black, Hispanic, and Latino communities. With a proven track record of managing teams and committees in multiple organizations, ranging from elected roles to direct supervision of staff, Sam is well-equipped to take on the role of deputy director for this organization.

As the new deputy director of Raices, Sam's primary responsibilities include coordinating and managing volunteers and teams, overseeing projects, and ensuring the organization's goals are met. Sam plans to contribute to the growth and success of the organization by finding ways to work asynchronously and maximizing the time spent together, whether virtually or in person. He believes this approach will help overcome the biggest challenges of finding and retaining committed volunteers and coordinating limited schedules.

During his tenure, Sam hopes to increase the visibility and presence of Raices in San Antonio. He plans to foster a positive and collaborative environment within the organization by creating a working plan and roadmap in partnership with other members of the cabinet, leveraging his project and program management skills to accomplish this chapter's objectives.

Sam's core values of honesty, pride, integrity, and trust align with the mission of the organization. He believes in telling the truth even when it's hard, taking pride in the work he does and the work of those around him, ensuring the right thing is done the right way at the right time, and trusting in those he partners with.

Ultimately, Sam sees Raices as an opportunity to give a voice to the community and help give a hand up to those who would like to learn more about Cyber and Technology. Providing direct and indirect support to the goals of those pursuing careers in Cyber and technology will allow the organization to reach more people and help a larger audience.

CHAPTER, SECRETARY

Please email info@raicescyber.org if you are interested in volunteering

CHAPTER, TREASURER

Please email info@raicescyber.org if you are interested in volunteering