Safeguarding and Strengthening Businesses for Future

DEREK MELBER

President and Chief Strategist

BrainCore.net

Cybercrime is evolving at an alarming rate, and by 2030, it’s expected to cost the world over $15 trillion annually. With threats growing more sophisticated, businesses can no longer afford to take cybersecurity lightly. They need leaders who don’t just understand the risks but know how to stay ahead of them. Few people make the leap from designing physical structures to securing digital ones, but Derek Melber did exactly that. With degrees in civil and architectural engineering, he was set to build skyscrapers and bridges. Instead, his curiosity and problem-solving mindset led him to a different kind of architecture—protecting digital infrastructures. Now, with over 25 years in cybersecurity, Melber has become one of the most respected voices in the industry. As President and Chief Strategist of BrainCore.net, he’s shaping the future of IT security, helping organizations navigate ever-changing cyber threats. But his impact extends far beyond the companies he works with. A Microsoft MVP in Security, Active Directory, and Group Policy, a 16-time author, and a renowned global speaker, he has educated thousands of IT professionals on cybersecurity best practices.His leadership at Tenable, BeyondTrust, and Nanitor, highlights his ability to bridge technical expertise with business strategy, ensuring that security is not just a defensive measure but a competitive advantage. TradeFlock sat down with Derek Melber to explore his extraordinary career, his vision for the future of cybersecurity, and what it takes to lead in an industry that never stands still.

What inspired you to become President of BrainCore.Net, and how does it align with your mission to help others through technology?

That realization sparked the creation of BrainCore. Net. I’ve spent years mastering Microsoft Active Directory, Group Policy, and security, but my true passion lies in helping businesses navigate these challenges with confidence. Through consulting, training, and security assessments, I ensure organizations don’t just implement best practices—they build resilient, future-proof systems. BrainCore.Net is my way of turning technical expertise into real-world impact.

THEY NEEDED MORE THAN EXPERTISE —THEY NEEDED HANDS-ON GUIDANCE.

What’s the biggest challenge in securing networks, and how did you turn it into growth?

Security isn’t just about firewalls and passwords—it’s about mindset. The biggest challenge I face isn’t technology; it’s the fear of change. People resist new processes because the unknown feels risky, but in reality, staying the same is the real danger—just ask Blockbuster or Kodak. I counter this resistance with small, strategic wins, often in sets of three. Each step builds confidence, proving that security isn’t a roadblock—it’s the foundation for growth.

What drives you daily, and how does it align with your work at BrainCore.Net?

My core purpose is simple—I aim to help someone every day, whether in a small way or a big one.

IF SOMEONE WALKS AWAY SAYING, “I LEARNED SOMETHING” OR “YOU HELPED ME,” THEN THAT’S A GOOD DAY FOR ME. SUCCESS ISN’T MEASURED BY WHAT I ACHIEVE, BUT BY WHO I HELP.

This philosophy isn’t just a personal belief; it’s the foundation of BrainCore.Net. Whether I’m providing cybersecurity insights, training a team, or answering a simple question online, my mission remains the same—help first, no strings attached. I don’t do it for recognition, and in many cases, I help anonymously. Because at the end of the day, leadership and business aren’t about personal gain—they’re about leaving things better than you found them.

How do you simplify technical jargon, and how has it influenced your leadership style?

“Clarity isn’t just about words—it’s about impact.” I always ask myself, How would I want to hear this? That perspective shapes how I simplify technical jargon. I rely on the Rule of 3—breaking down complex ideas into three clear takeaways. It makes learning, decision-making, and leadership more effective. Simplicity isn’t about dumbing things down; it’s about making them stick.

How has traveling to 45+ countries shaped your leadership or business approach?

Traveling to over 45 countries has shown me that, at our core, people are more alike than we think—we all seek understanding, respect, and a sense of belonging. This reminds me of Nelson Mandela’s belief that speaking to someone in their own language speaks to their heart. I’ve experienced this firsthand—whether sharing a meal with locals in India or navigating language gaps in Rio, I’ve seen that effort and empathy transcend borders.

"TRUE CONNECTION STARTS WHEN WE STOP SEEING DIFFERENCES AS BARRIERS."

I carry this lesson into leadership and business, knowing that success isn’t about changing people but about meeting them where they are. Just like an accent is only a matter of perspective, cultural differences are opportunities, not obstacles. The world thrives when we embrace, not judge, our differences.