Mike Burgard

Mike Burgard is a problem solver who thrives on creating new solutions that address real-world challenges, managing the risk around the solutions, and he likes to win. In addition to keeping a keen eye on Marco’s internal security as Chief Information Officer/Chief Information Security Officer, Mike helps customers identify risk, evaluate the best methods of protection for their systems, and secure their information assets.

Mike initially joined Marco in 2016 as a solutions architect, specializing in Data Center and security technologies. He became Director of Strategic Operations, where he led initiatives to improve Marco's security offerings before being named CISO in 2018. He led the company through a successful SOC 2 Report process that provides clear assurances of Marco’s security controls and currently oversees Marco's information and data security, cyber resiliency and compliance programs.

If his life were a book, it would be titled, "Challenge and Persevere" (or "Damn Few," but that title is already taken, and it's already a good book). He believes success often comes to those who challenge themselves more than others and persevere – you must work for the best things in life.

If he could have one superpower, Mike would want telepathy – to read and share thoughts. He believes we lose so much with the imperfections of human communication. And since nearly every sci-fi genre has telepathy incorporated into it, it must be useful!

When he's not at work, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife and their two young daughters (likely dancing to YouTube music videos), traveling, recreational boating, tinkering – or “playing,” as his wife calls it – with a John Deere, or at the shooting range.

If Mike had to choose one meal to eat for the rest of his life, it would have to be hard-shell tacos because you can change the proportions and get different results – you can eat them as tacos, break them up and get nachos, or even turn them into taco salad. (We told you Mike thrives on creating new solutions to problems.)

Education

Bachelor's degree in General Studies-Business and Technology, minor in Economics from South Dakota State University.

Awards/Certifications

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• ITIL v3 Foundation (formerly Information Technology Infrastructure Library)
• Holds multiple advanced certifications from VMware and various other vendors

Community involvement

Member, InfraGard – South Dakota Chapter; member of multiple regional and national cybersecurity think-tanks and advisory councils to improve cybersecurity awareness and standards; member of the Knights of Columbus; NRA range safety officer; range safety officer and member at Beacon Hill Rifle and Pistol Club; member of the Fraternal Order of Police; attained the rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America.

Joined Marco

2016