Nick Saunders serves as the Chief Cybersecurity and Data Officer for Global Space Networks at Viasat. He is responsible for the secure development and defense of Viasat’s global satellite-based networks.
Nick leads teams focused on the design of secure communications networks, maintaining compliance across Viasat’s global networks, performing active cybersecurity defense, communications-level defense, red team activities, forensics, cyber threat intelligence, development of novel cybersecurity analytics techniques, and other cybersecurity-related functions. Nick has 16 years of experience leading and advancing technology focused on cybersecurity, information assurance, embedded systems, bootloaders, operating systems, space systems architecture, critical infrastructure, and multiple communications-focused disciplines.
Nick supports Mark Dankberg in support of the President’s National Security and Telecommunications Advisory Committee and has participated in subcommittee efforts. He has worked with ONCD, CISA, NSA, DoD, S-ISAC, and other communities in support of tactical and strategic sharing, as well as with policy advisement.
Nick is an industry advocate for space systems cybersecurity. He has been published in IEEE and presented at multiple technical conferences (IEEE, SANS). Nick has presented at DEFCON in 2023, Defense in Space, CyberSatGov, and numerous other venues. Nick has presented cybersecurity briefings for USMC, USAF, Space Command, and multiple other USG agencies and departments.
In addition to his work at Viasat, Nick is an Adjunct Professor at Indiana University’s space cybersecurity program (the first of its kind). Nick is a graduate of Virginia Tech and holds degree in Computer Engineering.