Registration open for Saranac Lake Cybersecurity Conference
April 21, 2026
SARANAC LAKE — North Country Community College is inviting professionals, students, and community members to register for the 7th Annual North Country Cybersecurity Conference, a premier regional event focused on the latest trends, threats, and innovations in digital security.
Co-sponsored by the college and the SUNY Plattsburgh Center for Cybersecurity and
Technology, the conference will take place on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Hotel Saranac,
bringing together business leaders, cybersecurity experts, IT professionals, and educators
from across the region for a full day of learning and networking.
This year’s program features dynamic lineup of industry leaders and practitioners addressing real-world business challenges and emerging technologies.
Featured speakers and sessions include:
- Keynote: Reg Harnish, CEO of OrbitalFire Security, founder of GreyCastle Security and co-founder of Autotask, who will challenge the traditional “doom and gloom” approach to cybersecurity and highlight how values-driven, empathy-first strategies can build stronger organizations and enrich trust.
- Randy Rose, Security Operations and Intelligence Lead, Center for Internet Security (CIS), will prepare leaders to effectively respond to moments of high stress and uncertainty. Pulling lessons from Sully Sullenberger’s emergency landing, Navy aviation culture, and others, attendees will learn simple, powerful ways to lead under pressure.
- Chris Theisen (Microsoft), presenting on AI and security, with insights into how Microsoft tested AI-enabled tools, including lessons on prompt injection and data exfiltration.
- Noor Gravelle and Scott Sparks, New York State Department of Homeland Security, will present Top 10 business Risks Strategies for Mitigation, offering a state-level perspective on evolving cyber threats.
- Rich Ingersoll, Director of Systems Architecture, Engineering and Cybersecurity at Rochester Regional Health, sharing insights from the highly targeted healthcare sector.
- Owahn Bazydlo (Talas Security), discussing the rapid adoption of AI by both attackers and defenders and its implications for cybersecurity strategy.
In addition to expert-led presentations, the conference will include a welcome session and evening reception on Thursday, May 7, and a capture-the-flag (CTF) cybersecurity hacking competition on Saturday, May 9, giving participants the opportunity to test their skills in a hands-on environment.
The conference is open to a wide audience—from IT professionals and business owners to students and anyone interested in strengthening their understanding of cybersecurity in today’s increasing digital world.
“Events like the North Country Cybersecurity Conference are critical to building awareness and strengthening our regional workforce in a rapidly evolving field,” said Sarah Maroun, NCCC’s Vice President for Academic Affairs. “With a strong lineup of speakers and practical learning opportunities, this year’s event offers tremendous value for attendees at all levels.”
Registration costs $75 for businesses and individuals. Students can attend for free. Registration is now open, and early sign-ups are encouraged as space may be limited.
For more information and to register, visit: