In the world of cybersecurity, where the digital battlefield is ever-evolving and relentless, there are a few individuals who shine as beacons of wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support. We’ve lost our dear mentor, friend, and cybersecurity luminary, Steve Katz. Steve embodied these qualities in the most exceptional way. We celebrate not only his contributions to the industry but also the profound impact he has had on each of us.
When we think of Steve, a myriad of qualities come to mind. He was kind—always ready with a word of encouragement and a warm smile, even in the face of the most complex cyber threats. He was funny—a master of wit and humor, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, laughter can be a source of resilience. He was personable—approachable, relatable, and a true friend to all who have had the privilege of knowing him.
But above all, he is smart—brilliant, in fact. His insights into the world of cybersecurity have shaped the industry in ways that few can claim. As one of the founders and thought leaders for the Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Center (FS-ISAC), he laid the foundation for collaboration and information sharing across industries—a principle he passionately advocated as paramount to improving cyber resilience.
His dedication to mentoring, however, is where his impact truly shines. He understood that knowledge is not to be hoarded but to be shared. He believed in lifting others up and nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. His guidance was rock solid, his advice simple and direct, and his mentorship transformative.
Many of us owe a great deal of our professional success to his unwavering guidance and support over the years. He didn't just teach us about firewalls and encryption; he instilled in us a mindset of continuous learning, adaptability, and a commitment to the greater good of cyber resilience. His mentorship was not just about technical knowledge; it was about cultivating the qualities of character and leadership that are essential in our field.
As our mentor enters a better place let us reflect on the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of shared knowledge, unwavering support, and the belief that kindness and mentorship can transform lives and industries. Let us honor his memory by continuing to advocate for information sharing, by giving back through mentorship, and by embodying the values he so passionately stood for.
Thank to Millie and Steve’s family for shouldering the emotional and physical challenges with Steve’s care. You have been remarkable in your support for Steve these past four years living with cancer.
Steve, I miss you already as the guiding light in our cybersecurity journey. You always will be, our cybersecurity luminary.