Company Overview
Black Hills Information Security (BHIS), founded in 2008, is a leading entity in the computer and network security industry with headquarters in Sturgis, SD. BHIS specializes in penetration testing, red teaming, threat hunting, and Active SOC services. The company provides tailored security solutions to a wide array of clients, including small community banks, Fortune 100 companies, and governmental organizations such as the Department of Defense (DOD) and various civilian agencies. Known for its active role in cybersecurity education, BHIS offers webcasts, podcasts, and training services, including developing open-source tools and educational games like Backdoors & Breaches.
Key Personnel
- John Strand: Owner and Security Analyst, notable for his background in regulatory compliance and penetration testing, as well as his role as a distinguished SANS instructor.
- Christopher (CJ) Cox: Chief Operating Officer, overseeing daily operations and strategic initiatives since 2016.
- Melisa Wachs: Director, handling administrative functions since the company's inception.
- Laura Seumanutafa: Logistics Director, known for her multilingual skills and logistics expertise.
- Marita Johnson: Director of Accounting, a certified CPA managing financial operations.
- Kassie Kimball: Content Manager, responsible for content strategy.
- Terry Reece: Security Analyst, contributing to security assessments.
- Sally Vandeven: Penetration Tester, part of the testing team.
- Corey Ham: Red Team member, focused on adversarial simulation.
- Kent Ickler & Derek Banks: Information and Security Analysts, enhancing cybersecurity measures.
- Melissa Bruno: Software Engineer and Security Analyst, supporting software development and security initiatives.
Financials and Performance
BHIS estimates an annual revenue of $24.9 million, with its success attributed to strategic risk assessments and major contracts, such as the Department of Justice purchase order. The company employs approximately 122 individuals, a figure reflecting a 16% increase in employee growth over the past year.
Training and Events
A significant part of BHIS's mission is fostering education and community involvement through initiatives like Antisyphon Training. They host the annual Wild West Hackin' Fest in Deadwood, SD, underscoring their dedication to advancing cybersecurity education.
Online Presence and Community Engagement
BHIS is active on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube, where they reach both novice and advanced professionals in the security sector. Their content includes a wide range of topics from basic cybersecurity education to advanced security strategies.
Competitor Analysis
BHIS operates in a competitive market with rivals such as:
1. SBS CyberSecurity: With a $19 million revenue, this company offers consulting and penetration testing services, focusing on risk management.
2. Query.AI: Known for its federated search platform for security data management, generating $7.3 million in revenue with significant employee growth.
3. Secure Banking Solutions: A smaller firm with a $1.7 million revenue, noted for penetration testing and IT security consulting.
Additional competitors include Check Point Software Technologies Ltd, CrowdStrike, DivvyCloud, and PortSwigger, with specialties across software and cloud security services.
Market Position and Strategic Insights
BHIS maintains a strong market position due to its innovative security solutions and educational initiatives. Their ongoing employee growth and established reputation fortify their competitive edge in the cybersecurity domain. Their comprehensive approach toward enhancing clients' defensive capabilities and commitment to professional education positions BHIS as both a leader and a thought influencer in the cybersecurity industry.
