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Meet Kirk Tramble,

your trusted advisor.

Over 30 years of experience in cybersecurity, IT strategy, and infrastructure management.

Founder & Chief Strategist

Career Summary

Experienced IT professional with over 30 years of extensive experience in cybersecurity, IT strategy, and infrastructure management. Founder and Chief Strategist of Kizata LLC, specializing in virtual CISO and CIO services, cybersecurity advisory, and strategic IT consulting. Proven track record in managing large-scale IT projects, leading cross-cultural teams, and developing robust security frameworks. Holder of an MBA from Dartmouth College and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from UC Berkeley.

Professional Experience

Nor-Cal Financial Development Corporation | Contractor, Virtual CISO and CIO

September 2023 – Present

  • Provided strategic IT leadership and formulated strategic IT goals.
  • Managed IT strategy to align with organizational goals.
  • Conducted regular technology renovation meetings and provided ongoing IT support and planning.
  • Assisted clients with cybersecurity program development and regulatory compliance.
  • Evaluated and selected cybersecurity technologies for client implementations.

Nitro Software Inc. | Senior Director IT

April 2020 – March 2023, San Francisco, CA

  • Led all corporate IT functions including applications, networks, remote access, governance, compliance, audit, and vendor management.
  • Led IT compliance for ISO 27001/2 standard.
  • Established NIST Cyber Security framework and managed full lifecycle API integration points for enterprise applications.
  • Managed a global team with members in Ireland, Canada, Belgium, and the United States.

San Mateo Community College District | Adjunct Professor

2016 – Present, San Mateo, CA

  • Developed and designed the Cloud Computing Certificate curriculum focused on AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platforms.
  • Teach courses in software engineering and Internet of Things (IoT), alongside cloud computing.
  • Recognized as a 2019 Cloud Ambassador by AWS Educate.

Courses Taught:

  • Introduction to Cloud Computing: 7 semesters
  • Database Essentials in the Cloud: 4 semesters
  • Introduction to Computer Information Systems: 7 semesters
  • The Internet of Things: 2 semesters
  • iOS Programming: 3 semesters
  • Introduction to Business Information Systems: 4 semesters
  • Introduction to Object Oriented Programming: C++: 3 semesters
  • Introduction to Computer Science: 3 semesters
  • Computer Architecture and Assembly Language: 1 semester
  • Computer Systems in Business: 3 semesters
  • Business Information Systems: 3 semesters
  • Introduction to Data Structures: C++: 2 semesters
  • Introduction to Object Oriented Programming: Java: 1 semester
  • Introduction to Business: 1 semester
  • Introduction to HTML5 and CSS: 1 semester
  • Introduction to Business Information Systems (Honors): 1 semester
  • Business Communications: 1 semester

Kizata LLC | Founder & Principal

January 2010 – Present, Castro Valley, CA

  • Offered virtual CISO consulting and launched Blockchain Education Association.
  • Hosted the Talking Tokens podcast and participated in web3 and cryptocurrency-related seminars.

Innovative Interfaces Inc. | Business Transformation Manager

June 2013 – May 2014, Emeryville, CA

Apple Inc. | Business Analyst (Contractor)

March 2013 – May 2013, Cupertino, CA

Fireman’s Fund | Project Manager

2012 – February 2013, Novato, CA

Chevron Corp | Various Roles

January 1994 – December 2010, San Ramon, CA

  • Held multiple leadership positions, managed IT strategy, risk management, and large-scale technology deployments.

Education

Dartmouth College | Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Class of 2002, Hanover, NH

University of California, Berkeley | B.S. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Class of 1993, Berkeley, CA

Additional Training

  • Prepare to develop AI solutions on Azure, Microsoft Learning June 2024
  • Create and consume Azure AI services, Microsoft Learning June 2024
  • Defense day 2024: Cybersecurity Virtual Summit, SentinelOne June 2024

Conferences and Workshops

  • National Society of Black Engineers Region XI Regional Conference, Las Vegas, NV March 2018
  • National Black MBA Association Annual Conference, Houston, TX 2019
  • CAA Alumni Chapters Leadership Conference 2019, Berkeley, CA 2019
  • CSUN Blockchain Summit 2017, Northridge, CA December 2017
  • Tuck Diversity Conference 2020, Virtual October, 2020
  • Crypto Economics Security Conference (CESC) Berkeley, CA, 2022
  • Consensus by CoinDesk Conference, Austin, Tx June 2022
    • Also attended in May 2017, New York, NY
  • Summit on Responsible Innovation in Crypto & Web3 UC Berkeley, 2022
  • RSA Conference, San Francisco May 2024
  • National Society of Black Engineers National Conference, Atlanta, GA March 2024
    • Also attended in March 2023
    • Also attended in Anaheim, CA March 2022
  • Scheduled Presenter: National Society of Black Engineers Professionals Conference, Washington, DC August 2024
    • “Harnessing AI Copilots: Safely Integrating Smart Technology in Your Business”

Volunteer Experience

California Alumni Association | President and Member of Board

Founded by UC Berkeley alumni in 1872, CAA is an independent 501(c)(3) with a global network of over half a million graduates.

2018 – Present, Berkeley, CA

  • Lead the organization’s strategy and policy development, ensuring alignment with its mission and goals.
  • 2023/24 Active member of the 14th Chancellor Selection Team
  • Oversee strategic initiatives, guide governance matters, and represent CAA in interactions with UC Berkeley and the alumni community.
  • Duties include leading board meetings, facilitating strategic planning sessions, and fostering relationships with key stakeholders to enhance the association’s impact and reach.
  • AAI (African-American Initiative) Scholarship Planning Team

UC Berkeley Black Engineering and Science Alumni Club (BESAC) | Co-Founder and President-Emeritus

2018 – Present, Berkeley, CA

  • Co-hosted Celebration in Engineering Diversity at UC Berkeley 2018
  • Co-founded the alumni club, established digital communications March 2018
  • BESAC awarded UC Berkeley 2021 Loyal Company Outstanding Volunteer Group Award Aug, 2021

Castro Valley Unified School District | Various Volunteer Leadership Roles

2017 – 2023, Castro Valley, CA

Greene Scholars Program | Parent Volunteer

2016 – 2023, San Jose, CA

Certifications and Skills

Certifications:

  • ITIL Practitioner
  • Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)
  • Novell Certified Network Engineer (CNE)
  • Competent Toastmaster (CTM) (Club founder)

Skills:

  • Leadership: IT Governance, Infrastructure Security, Cloud Security, Systems Migrations, Team Management, Cryptocurrency and Blockchain, Risk Management, Stakeholder Communication, Technical Teaching, IT Strategy Planning
  • Development: C++, Java, PHP and Swift
Kirk Tramble

Managing Consultant

Transform and Protect Your Business with Kizata

Transform and Protect Your Business with Kizata

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Strategic Marketing Workshop & Plan

Starting at

$4950

  • Quick wins to increase customer acquisition, lead an sales
  • We wont ask you to spend more
  • We drive more traffic, customers and sales to your business
  • We provide real, practical marketing advice
  • We report to you on a monthly basis what we have done
  • Watch as your business grows and expands from all the new leads
  • Processes are time-tested and field proven

We’ll be in touch soon!

What problem are you trying to solve?

What kind of reporting structure will be in place?2024-08-06T21:00:21-07:00

Regular reports will be provided, detailing progress on IT projects, budgeting, compliance status, and strategic recommendations.

How do we measure the success of a Fractional CIO’s engagement?2024-08-06T20:58:17-07:00

Success is measured through specific KPIs aligned with your business objectives, such as improved system performance, cost savings, and project milestones.

Will the Fractional CIO assist in long-term planning and not just immediate issues?2024-08-06T20:55:15-07:00

Absolutely. While addressing immediate IT needs, the focus is also on long-term strategic planning to ensure sustainable growth and technology alignment with business goals.

How can a Fractional CIO help in developing and executing IT strategies?2024-08-06T20:53:29-07:00

A Fractional CIO assesses your current IT capabilities and business goals to develop a comprehensive IT strategy that includes technology upgrades, cybersecurity enhancements, and innovation initiatives.

What is the process for onboarding a Fractional CIO?2024-08-06T20:50:58-07:00

Onboarding involves an initial assessment of your IT landscape, strategic meetings with key stakeholders, and a detailed plan outlining key objectives and timelines.

How will the Fractional CIO integrate with our existing team?2024-08-06T20:48:45-07:00

The Fractional CIO will work closely with your existing IT team and management, ensuring seamless integration through regular meetings, strategic sessions, and hands-on guidance.

What specific expertise and experience does the Fractional CIO bring?2024-08-06T20:46:40-07:00

Our Fractional CIOs bring a wealth of experience, typically having worked across multiple industries on IT strategy development, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and compliance.

What is the typical duration of engagement with a Fractional CIO?2024-08-06T20:44:42-07:00

Engagements can vary from a few months to several years, depending on the project scope and business objectives.

How many hours per week or month will the Fractional CIO be available?2024-08-06T20:42:08-07:00

Availability is flexible and based on your needs—it can range from a few hours a week to several days a month. We tailor this based on the strategic requirements of your business.

How is the payment structure for a Fractional CIO?2024-08-06T20:39:25-07:00

Payment structures are flexible; including: monthly retainers and project-based fees, depending on your organization’s needs and the scope of work.

How much does a Fractional CIO cost compared to a full-time CIO?2024-08-06T20:36:20-07:00

A Fractional CIO is significantly more cost-effective than a full-time CIO, as you pay for services only when needed. This avoids the full-time salaries, benefits, and other overhead costs associated with a full-time executive.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Fractional CIO?2024-08-06T20:31:43-07:00

A Fractional CIO oversees IT strategy, technology roadmaps, IT budgeting, cybersecurity, compliance, and IT team leadership. They ensure that IT systems and strategies align with the overarching business goals.

How does a Fractional CIO differ from a full-time CIO or a consultant?2024-08-06T20:24:40-07:00

Unlike a full-time CIO, a Fractional CIO works on a flexible schedule, typically part-time, which reduces costs while still providing strategic guidance. Unlike a consultant, a Fractional CIO takes on ongoing responsibility for your IT strategy and execution, rather than focusing on specific projects or temporary fixes.

What is a Fractional CIO?2024-08-06T20:18:04-07:00

A Fractional CIO (Chief Information Officer) provides strategic leadership and guidance on IT initiatives on a part-time or contract basis. This role is designed for organizations that need executive-level IT leadership without the commitment to a full-time position.

Transitioning to a Full-Time CISO2024-08-06T19:53:57-07:00

  • Transition Assistance: Supports in the hiring and training of a full-time CISO.
  • Offboarding: Streamlined process to ensure a smooth transition without loss of knowledge or security integrity.
Cost Structure2024-08-06T19:45:28-07:00

  • Billing Models: Flexible billing options, including monthly retainers.
  • Additional Costs: Transparent about any costs related to extraordinary projects or incident responses.
Compliance Support2024-08-06T19:06:26-07:00

  • Regulatory Assistance: Helps ensure compliance with laws like GDPR and HIPAA.
  • Staying Updated: Continuously monitors evolving cybersecurity regulations to keep your practices compliant.
Handling Security Incidents2024-08-06T19:03:22-07:00

  • Incident Response: Immediate and effective actions to manage and mitigate security incidents.
  • Communication: Maintains clear lines of communication throughout the incident resolution process.
How is a Fractional CISO Integrated into Our Team?2024-08-06T18:58:45-07:00

  • Onboarding Process: Customized integration plans that align with your existing business and security frameworks.
  • Collaboration: Works closely with IT and security teams to fortify defenses and strategies.
  • System Access: Secured and controlled access to necessary systems for effective management
The Benefits of Hiring a Fractional CISO2024-08-06T18:59:54-07:00

  • Value to Your Organization: Enhances your cybersecurity strategy without the full-time executive cost.
  • Cost Advantages: More economical, reducing payroll and related expenses.
  • Industry Best Practices: Brings fresh perspectives and the latest security practices to your team.
What is a Fractional CISO?2024-08-06T18:46:27-07:00

A Fractional CISO is a part-time security executive who provides the same expertise and strategic oversight as a full-time CISO, but tailored to the scale and needs of smaller organizations or those not requiring full-time support.

Which MacOS versions are supported?2023-12-27T18:12:17-08:00

OS Name OS Version
Ventura 13.2, 13.2.1, 13.1, 13.0
Monterey 12.6.1, 12.6.2, 12.6.3, 12.6, 12.5.1, 12.5, 12.4, 12.3.1, 12.3, 12.2, 12.2.1, 12.0, 12.1
Big Sur 11.7.4, 11.7.3, 11.7.2, 11.7.1, 11.7, 11.6.8, 11.6.7, 11.6.6, 11.6, 11.5.2, 11.5.1, 11.5, 11.4, 11.3.1, 11.3, 11.2, 11.1, 11.0

Minimum Hardware Requirements

Minimum Recommended
1 GHz dual-core CPU or better
1 GB RAM or more, according to the operating system requirements 2 GB RAM or more
2 GB free disk space
Which Microsoft Windows operating systems are supported?2023-12-27T18:12:42-08:00

Windows OS Details
Windows Server Core 2022, 2019, 2016, 2012
Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016, 2012 R2, 2012, 2008 R2 SP1

Note: Windows Server 2012 R2 on an AWS T3 instance requires a workaround for agent not showing in console:

  • Upgrade the OS.
  • If you cannot upgrade the OS, apply this policy override:
    • Put all AWS instances of Windows Server 2012 R2 in one endpoint group.
    • Create this policy override for that group:{ "blockUnsignedDriverLoad": false }
  • If you cannot group the endpoints (they are not in the same Site or there are other restrictions), create an exclusion for the problematic Windows driver:C:windowssystem32driversena.sys
  • If none of these steps are relevant, open a support case directly with Microsoft to fix the issue.
Windows Storage Server 2016, 2012 R2, 2012
Windows 7 SP1, 8, 8.1, 10, 11 32/64-bit

All Windows Agents, starting from version 21.5.2, fully support Windows 11.

All versions of Agents that are supported according to the lifecycle are tested for compatibility for each Windows 10 release.

Some Deep Visibility functionality is not fully supported on Windows 10 Redstone 5 (October 2018 Update) with 2.5, 2.6, and 2.7 Agents. If you upgrade a Windows 10 endpoint to RS5, TCP connection events are reported for Windows Agents of version 2.8+.

Important: For Agents installed on Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2:  To update the OS with Microsoft Updates, click this link. These updates are required for the endpoints to connect to the Management. If you do not download these updates, the endpoints will be rejected by the Management due to weak SSL.

Download the updates in this order:

  1. clearcompressionflag.exe
  2. KB2919442 (Windows Server 2012 R2 only)
  3. KB2919355
  4. KB2932046
  5. KB2959977
  6. KB2937592
  7. KB2938439
  8. KB2934018

Microsoft ended support for Windows 7, January 2020. SentinelOne continues to support Agents on Windows 7 for up to three years after the Microsoft End Of Life declaration. Windows 10 offers a much better security architecture than Windows 7, and the Agent on Windows 10 supports these enhanced security features. Therefore, we strongly advise that you migrate your endpoints to Windows 10.
Editions Supported editions:  Home, Pro, Pro for Workstations, Enterprise, Education, Pro Education, Enterprise LTSC, Embedded (UI issue fixed in Agent version 3.4.1.7), Windows 10 IoT Enterprise

Not supported:  Mobile, Windows 10 IoT Core
Minimum Recommended
1 GHz CPU or better

Single-core (can install but there are performance issues)

 Dual-core
1 GB RAM 2 GB RAM or more
2 GB free disk space on the Windows partition

10% of disk for VSS snapshots

 3 GB recommended

10% of disk for VSS snapshots
Minimum Recommended
Windows Defender On Windows Servers, Microsoft Defender Antivirus do not enter passive or disabled mode if you have SentinelOne installed. We recommend that you uninstall Microsoft Defender Antivirus on Windows Servers to prevent interoperability issues.

The behavior when an Agent is installed on an endpoint with Windows Defender installed differs depending on the Windows OS version.
.NET Framework 4 and later on Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2 for the old EXE installer (earlier than Agent version 22.1). Not needed for the MSI installer or the new EXE installer (Agent version 22.1+).
On Windows 10 version 1607 and Windows Server 2016, install Microsoft KB4093119, to make sure old logs in ProgramDataSentinellogs are deleted. An endpoint should have only 16 log files, taking up no more than 1.6 GB.
On Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2, install update 2919355 to enable new TLS cipher suites.
On Windows 7, Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1), Windows Server 2012, and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1, install the Update to enable TLS 1.2 as default secure protocols in WinHTTP and add the Registry subkey, as shown in the article. Management-Agent communication uses TLS 1.2. This is not supported by default in Windows 7. You must install this update and add the registry subkey, as shown in the article.
KB3033929 (SHA2) – Security Update for Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2. This security update must be installed on Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 to meet minimum requirements for the installer.
KB2758857 for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 or KB4457144 – Security updates for Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 After you install the security updates, you must restart the endpoint and run the Agent installation again.
Microsoft Windows Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) Configure VSS before you install the Agent.
GPO Chrome Extensions The SentinelOne Chrome extension is part of the Agent installation. When you install or upgrade the Windows Agent with GPO, Chrome extensions must be enabled.
GPO Privileges The administrator who runs Agent installation through group policy must have RESTORE and TAKE OWNERSHIP privileges to prevent an installer crash.
DigiCert If the endpoint does not get Windows updates, you must manually install DigiCert for the Agent to communicate with the Management.
Windows Root Certificates Update Windows Root Certificates. If you do not, it could lead to invalid signature errors.
Windows Services set to Automatic Base Filtering Engine Service

Windows Update Service
What’s included in the 15 day free trial?2023-12-27T18:14:13-08:00

Kizata Business Protect AI-Powered Threat Detection/Antivirus and Monitoring, 24/7 Endpoint Prevention Detection and Response (EDR), Malware/Virus Response and Remediation, Advanced Endpoint Protection Controls for Business, Vulnerability Scanning for Business and more.

How much does Kizata cost?2023-10-29T21:18:58-07:00

A full time cybersecurity department can cost over $10000 per month, and even outside consultants can set your business back by over $5000 per month. Kizata is month to month membership starting at $29 per month that you can cancel anytime.

How Does Kizata Work?2023-10-29T21:17:50-07:00

How Does Kizata Ensure Your Digital Safety? At Kizata, we firmly believe that every entrepreneur should enjoy top-tier cybersecurity support without breaking the bank.

Here’s our approach:

  • When you team up with Kizata, we delve deep into understanding your digital ecosystem and current protective measures. No need for apprehensions – perfection isn’t a prerequisite here. Our mission is to pinpoint areas of improvement and align you with the latest best practices.
  • A dedicated Cybersecurity Specialist will be by your side. Together, we’ll spot the vulnerabilities in your security framework, and devise a tailor-made strategy to fortify your business. Priority will be given to immediate threats, followed by a structured plan to bolster overall defense.
  • Enter our ‘Cybersecurity Cruise Control’ – delivering essential protection protocols that every enterprise requires.
    For intricate challenges, lean on your Cybersecurity Specialist. They will navigate you through every scenario, addressing all queries to ensure you’re shielded. Face a security breach? We’re here to guide your response.

Remember, as a Kizata member, our cybersecurity expertise is always at your beck and call.
Share your worries with us and brace yourself for unparalleled cybersecurity peace of mind, exclusively from Kizata.

What is Kizata?2023-10-29T21:15:06-07:00

Kizata is an outsourced cybersecurity protection and compliance solution for small businesses. With your own dedicated Cybersecurity Specialist, Kizata helps your business with Cybersecurity Best Practices and procedures; Device Protection and Alerting; and Relief From Complex Cybersecurity Issues.

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