John Hayes, co-founder and chief technology officer of BlackRidge Technology International, Inc. (OTCQB: BRTI), a leading provider of next-generation cyber defense solutions, has been named Technologist of the Year by NCET, Nevada’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology. The award recognizes excellence in the technical performance of the recipient’s organization as well as exceptional leadership through the innovative and effective use of technology in support of the organization’s strategic initiatives.

Hayes leads the product architecture, technology research and intellectual property efforts for BlackRidge. He is the inventor behind 10 U.S. patents, including the company-founding network and cloud security patents. Hayes had more than 25 years’ experience in security and networking in Silicon Valley before co-founding BlackRidge and relocating to Reno. His accomplishments include co-founding Alteon WebSystems, which held a very successful IPO in 1999 and was subsequently acquired by Nortel Networks Inc.

The NCET Technology Awards, now in their 12th year, celebrate northern Nevada individuals and companies that have significantly enhanced the growth and prestige of the technology community. The awards were presented at an event at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa on March 28.

On April 2, Hayes will participate in a panel discussion on cybersecurity in critical infrastructure at the inaugural cybersecurity conference hosted by the Cybersecurity Center of the University of Nevada, Reno. Brian Wilcox, CISO of Blackridge Technology, will participate in a panel on vulnerability analysis and penetration testing.

“BlackRidge is proud to be part of the vibrant technology ecosystem in Nevada,” said Bob Graham, CEO and chairman of BlackRidge Technology. “We’re delighted to see John’s accomplishments recognized by NCET, and we welcome the opportunity to further contribute to the ongoing cybersecurity dialogue by participating in the conference at UNR. Addressing Nevada’s cybersecurity challenges – which will increasingly touch every aspect of the state’s economy – will require collaboration between researchers and industry experts as well as thoughtful investment in the next generation of technologists.”

BlackRidge is a platinum sponsor of the UNR cybersecurity conference. The free event will bring together a wide variety of security experts to discuss cybersecurity challenges and solutions, the implications for economic development in Nevada, and opportunities for building collaborative relationships between industry and academia. The all-day conference will feature two keynote presentations and four panel discussions.

For more information or to register for the conference, please visit www.unr.edu/cybersecurity/conference.

SOURCE BlackRidge Technology International, Inc.