14th-16th OCTOBER 2025
BRINDISI, ITALY

Mike Echols

Mike Echols

  • CEO
  • Max Cybersecurity LLC, USA

    Michael A. Echols (Mike), is CEO of Max Cybersecurity LLC. He previously spent 10 years in critical infrastructure protection and cybersecurity leadership at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) until 2017. His work included several White House national security and stakeholder engagement risk initiatives, and chairing interagency committees. Mike was Chairman of the Communications Sector where he led national risk assessment efforts across wireline, wireless, cable, broadcast and satellite and Designated Federal Official for the President’s NSTAC – 30 CEO level members from Defense, IT and Comm Sector companies making recommendations to the President.

    Mike is now an international speaker on national resilience and has authored four Forbes online articles on the security of Smart technology. He recently led a team in the development of the Operational Technology- Cybersecurity Maturity Framework for Transit. Mike has been featured on a PBS cybersecurity special called “Roadtrip Nation.” Mike authored a 2020 book, “Secure Cyber Life, The Government Is Not Coming to Save You.”  Max Cybersecurity’s clients include Walmart, the US Army Corps of Engineers, DHS, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Federal Transit Administration, and the National Science Foundation.

    Sessions

    • Critical Systems and IT/OT

      Implementing AI in OT environments, preparedness, and measuring maturity

      Protecting critical systems, such as ICS and SCADA, within CI is vital for security and public safety. The convergence of IT and OT networks increases cyber risks, demanding robust security measures. Safeguarding these interconnected environments from cyber threats is paramount to ensure the uninterrupted operation of essential services. What are the challenges, and how do we mitigate the threats?