Take 5 with Steve Cobb with One Source

Steve Cobb
Chief Information Security Officer, OneSource

Alma Mater: UNC Chapel Hill + East Carolina University

Twitter Handle: @prot3ctd3f3nd

About One Source: One Source is a managed services company focused on streamlining and optimizing the three mission-critical pillars of complex enterprise technology: communications lifecycle management (CLM), IT infrastructure and right-sized cybersecurity. 

What is one of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career, thus far, that others could benefit from?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to always surround yourself with people who are like-minded in passion and purpose.

If you met someone that was not familiar with your company and you could only tell them three things to sum up your business what would they be?

One Source helps businesses simplify a complex technology world. We are the leading provider of fully managed Communications Lifecycle Management and Managed Security Services for mid-market enterprises. Today, we manage more than 1,000 customers, 20,000 business locations, and over one million assets throughout the U.S. In addition to traditional Telecom / Wireless Expense Management services, we provide 24 / 7 local helpdesk, procure and provision telecom/IT, and handle all service requests.

If you could describe your corporate culture in three words, what would you say?

Focused servant leadership

What do you do for professional development?

When you work in cybersecurity, the nature of threats and strategies to protect against them are always evolving. Because of this, I make it a point to never stop learning and always take part in opportunities to improve my education. I follow multiple cybersecurity-related twitter accounts and do a good amount of continuous, self-taught work in the lab. Additionally, I frequently attend industry events and hacker conferences, including Black Hat, Def Con, RSA, ISSA, SANS and others.

What advice would you give to students interested in pursuing careers in STEM?

The best advice I can give students interested in STEM is this: don’t chase the money. Just because the salary is high doesn’t mean it’s the right fit or that you’ll be happy doing the work. Try to find something that suits your passion and won’t make you dread going to work. You want to find something you don’t consider a job but more of a purpose.

What is your personal mantra?

There is no education from the second kick of a mule.

What are your hobbies?

In the spirit of my career advice, my career (technology) is my hobby and my passion. But I also try to find room for fun on the side, so I play a lot of video games in my spare time as well.

What is your favorite movie and/or tv show?

The Office

What books are you currently (or have just finished) reading?

I’m currently reading and enjoying Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win, by Jocko Willink.

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New in 2022, The Take 5 series features brief 5 question interviews with leaders who are making an impact within their organization and in the community. The interviews are shared in the monthly e-newsletter, blog and through social media.