Senior Security Analyst, Verizon Wireless
In his role with Verizon, Kientz performs risk assessment of information security vulnerabilities and system security policy compliance. He completed his BS/Business Administration degree with a Management in Information Systems concentration at UT Dallas and says this degree laid the groundwork for his career. “The bachelor’s degree opened the door for me at KPMG and EY in technology risk consulting,” he recalls. “I served in EY’s Risk Advisory practice as a manager, which allowed me to work directly with C-level executives on assessing security and IT risk using a business lens. Further, graduating from UTD with honors gave me the confidence to complete a master’s degree in Information Security. None of these opportunities would have been open to me without my degree and experiences at UTD.”
What do you enjoy about your current position/profession?
Opportunity. Information security is the fastest growing professional role in the U.S., and the world needs many more security practitioners. Last count was about 2 million open security jobs, with about 750,000 of those in North America. I enjoy the challenging nature of the work and the constant need to learn and do more every day.
How do you see your profession changing in the next five or 10 years?
Security practitioners need business knowledge and the ability to communicate in business terms to executives who do not understand technology. An MIS or similar degree from UTD is tailor-made for my field, and many others within the business and technology space. Computer science and business schools have opportunities to “join forces” to help address the growing information security threat. This will provide an explosion of opportunities for new graduates of all levels. More chief information security officers are being hired every day by U.S. and international companies. This is now a very well-respected growth profession.
What unexpected experience or event has shaped and/or influenced your current professional life?
The birth of my children taught me that all of the sacrifices made to build my career were extremely important and will model a positive path for my kids to follow. Also, choosing the right university and program to launch my career successfully, which I did with UTD.
What characteristics do you look for when hiring people into your workplace?
Given the amount of rapid change in my profession, I look for someone’s ability to learn and communicate efficiently and effectively on the first opportunity. Technical knowledge is crucial, but people will not be effective in this career unless they can translate this information into high-level concepts that a wide range of company leaders will listen to and understand.
Why did you come to UT Dallas?
When I researched colleges, this one had the best reputation in the DFW area for my program. And everyone told me that UTD provides a private school level of education at a public school price. They were spot on!
What is your favorite UT Dallas memory?
Graduation day. I had the opportunity to see my classmates, many of which whom struggled to complete their studies while also working and having extensive family commitments, stand in front of their families, professors and friends triumphant on their educational journey. It is a moment I will never forget.
Did a UT Dallas professor inspire you? Who was that and how was that person inspirational?
My professor of Systems Analysis and Design also ran our chapter of AITP (Association of Information Technology Professionals) at the time. He inspired me to aim high and deliver my best. He embraced his students and always encouraged us. He loved what he did, and it showed.
Has something about your UT Dallas education surprised you since graduating?
Not at all. Although the university is not as well known as some other schools in Texas, in my experience UTD graduates have just as much career success as those graduating from any other institution. We are a group of silent achievers out here in the corporate world.
What advice do you have for college students hoping to succeed professionally?
Learn to work across diverse teams and accept that change is normal. Continuing education, both in school and within your profession, are critical for moving forward and not standing still. Never stop challenging yourself.
What makes an effective leader?
Listening skills paired with putting team members in a position to succeed. I don’t believe you can succeed without a healthy dose of both. Leadership is ultimately a servant position, but not all leaders exhibit these skills on a daily basis. We need more who do.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Writing about technology and finance. I write regularly for “Seeking Alpha” and “TalkMarkets,” both independent financial news sites. I also recently started my own finance newsletter. Most importantly, I enjoy spending time with my family and following my kids’ favorite pursuits.
