Alan Paller

Early Life and Education

Alan Terry Paller was born on September 17, 1945, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Cornell University in 1967, followed by a master's degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1968.

Early Career

Following his graduate studies, Paller joined the Institute for Defense Analyses, where his work exposed him to security vulnerabilities in computer systems related to missile-defense requirements. This experience laid the groundwork for his later focus on cybersecurity education and practice.

Founding the SANS Institute

In 1988, Paller co-founded the SANS Institute alongside his wife, with the stated mission of promoting efficient system management and secure operations. SANS grew into one of the most widely recognized organizations in the cybersecurity field, offering training, certifications, and research resources to security professionals worldwide.

SANS Technology Institute

In 2005, Paller founded the SANS Technology Institute, an accredited graduate institution focused on cybersecurity education. He held the title of President Emeritus at the institution.

Policy and Public Influence

Paller's expertise brought him into national policy discussions on multiple occasions. He testified before both the US Senate and the House of Representatives on matters related to cybersecurity. In 2010, the Washington Post named him one of seven people "worth knowing in cyber security." In 2012, he was appointed, alongside Jeff Moss, as co-chair of a Department of Homeland Security task force focused on cyber skills development.

He also received the Azimuth Award in 2005, recognizing his contributions to the field.

Workforce Development and Scholarships

Paller played a significant role in establishing the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation, an organization that hosts hacking challenges targeting high school and college students to encourage participation in cybersecurity careers. He held the title of president of the foundation. The foundation recognizes outstanding students through the Alan Paller Honor Scholarship, which provides both financial support and Scholar with Honors status to recipients who demonstrate ability through the GFACT certification exam.

Legacy

Alan Paller died on November 9, 2021, at the age of 76. His influence on cybersecurity education and workforce development is commemorated through several ongoing programs. The Center for Internet Security honors his memory through the Alan Paller Laureate Program, which recognizes eligible organizations, academic institutions, and individuals for contributions to the field.