Hi, my name is

Patrick Kelley.

vCISO / Keynote Speaker / Founder / Visiting Scholar

Founder of Léargas Security and Critical Path Security. Over 25 years protecting critical infrastructure, training for NERC, CISA, CRISP, and E-ISAC worldwide. Cybersecurity expert for NBC News and guest lecturer at Georgia State University.

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01. About

I have over 25 years in the Information Technology industry with an emphasis on Information Security and Network Forensics. I have spoken on panels with members from the FBI, CIA, and NSA.

I provide extensive network forensics training for NERC, CISA, CRISP, and E-ISAC around the world. Though I have 20 years supporting the Aerospace Industry, I am often requested to provide offensive security services with special requests, such as breaching and commandeering freight trains, luxury maritime vessels, and personal jets.

My research has been covered by FORTUNE, Bleeping Computer, CNN, NBC News, The Guardian, Globe and Mail, and Krebs Security Online.

My passion for working with non-profits with an emphasis on the prevention of child abuse is extensive. I have worked in leadership roles in this area for over 20 years, breaking ground for three emergency shelters.

Core Competencies

  • Network Forensics
  • Offensive Security
  • Firewalls & IDS/IPS
  • Virtualization
  • Incident Response
  • Threat Intelligence
  • NERC/CISA Training
  • Security Architecture

02. Experience

Founder / CISO

Léargas Security
January 2020 – Present · Atlanta, GA

Spearheading the mission to deliver AI-powered extended detection and response services. Leading strategic innovation in cybersecurity technology and driving development of the Léargas XDR Platform—providing comprehensive, scalable, and cost-effective cybersecurity solutions.

Founder / CISO

Critical Path Security
August 2017 – Present · Atlanta Metropolitan Area

Enhancing cybersecurity defenses and protecting critical digital assets for diverse clients. Driving the company's vision in an ever-evolving cyber landscape while fostering innovation in cybersecurity solutions and actively engaging in community outreach and partnership development.

Senior Security Researcher

PacketSled
August 2016 – September 2017 · Greater San Diego Area

Researched Cyber Threat Ontology and Heuristic Behaviors, leveraging psychology, sociology and data models to develop counter-initiatives of threat actors. Leveraged BRO-IDS and similar solutions for deep-packet analysis, threat detection and network forensics.

Sr. Security Engineer / Research / Manager

Critical Assets
March 2014 – August 2016 · Del Mar, California

Assisted corporate clients in advanced security architecture and implementation through Cisco ASA, SourceFire, and Palo Alto Network Firewalls. Performed product security testing and managed security assessments covering PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and other regulatory compliances.

Founder / Security Systems Engineer

GhostNet, Inc.
October 1999 – December 2010 · Woodstock, GA

Proprietor of an IT support and solutions firm emphasizing small to medium business support. Pioneered usage of CMS solutions in the North Georgia area. Participated in technical advisory committee with Appalachian Technical College for Computer Science curriculum development.

03. Publications & Research

Certifications

ICS Cybersecurity Training (300)

CompTIA Security+

Certified Ethical Hacker

Microsoft Certified Professional

Certified Netware Administrator

04. Contact

Whether you need a vCISO, a keynote speaker, penetration testing, or network forensics training—I'm available to discuss how I can help protect your organization.

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