Steve Orrin — From Biology to the Edge: Building Trust at Intel and the Poker Table Steve Orrin, Federal Chief Technologist at Intel Corporation, has forged a career that bridges biology, cybersecurity startups, and large-scale technology leadership. In this episode, hosts Jack Clabby of Carlton Fields, P.A., and Kayley Melton of the Cognitive Security Institute explore Steve’s journey—from early hacking and biochemistry research to founding startups and shaping the future of secure innovation at Intel. Steve explains how “the Edge” has evolved from basic IoT devices into a powerful ecosystem driving everything from aircraft to MRI machines. He shares hard-won lessons on building high-performing teams, nurturing talent, and embedding security from the very start—never as an afterthought. In the Lifestyle Polygraph, Steve reveals the ambitious “counter-AI” project he’d launch with an unlimited Intel budget and shares the best poker tell he’s ever spotted at the World Series of Poker. Follow Steve on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorrin/
Keywords
cybersecurity, technology, AI, IoT, Intel, startups, security culture, talent development, career advice
Summary
In this episode of No Password Required, host Jack Clabby and Kayleigh Melton engage with Steve Orrin, the federal CTO at Intel, discussing the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the importance of diverse teams, and the intersection of technology and security. Steve shares insights from his extensive career, including his experiences in the startup scene, the significance of AI and IoT, and the critical blind spots in cybersecurity practices. The conversation also touches on nurturing talent in technology and offers valuable advice for young professionals entering the field.
Takeaways
IoT is now referred to as the Edge in technology.
Diverse teams bring unique perspectives and solutions.
Experience in cybersecurity is crucial for effective team building.
The startup scene in the 90s was vibrant and innovative.
Understanding both biology and technology can lead to unique career paths.
AI and IoT are integral to modern cybersecurity solutions.
Organizations often overlook the importance of security in early project stages.
Nurturing talent involves giving them interesting projects and autonomy.
Young professionals should understand the hacker mentality to succeed in cybersecurity.
Customer feedback is essential for developing effective security solutions.
Titles
The Edge of Cybersecurity: Insights from Steve Orrin
Navigating the Intersection of Technology and Security
Sound bites
"IoT is officially called the Edge."
"We’re making mainframe sexy again."
"Surround yourself with people smarter than you."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and the Edge
01:48 Steve Orrin's Role at Intel
04:51 The Evolution of Security Technology
09:07 The Startup Scene in the 90s
13:00 The Intersection of Biology and Technology
15:52 The Importance of AI and IoT
20:30 Blind Spots in Cybersecurity
25:38 Nurturing Talent in Technology
28:57 Advice for Young Cybersecurity Professionals
32:10 Lifestyle Polygraph: Fun Questions with Steve