Tom Carlson
Principal and ISMS Practice Lead

Tom Carlson brings more than 30 years of information technology and operational security experience to his role as Principal and Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) Practice Lead for Orange Parachute. He also contributes to global industry standards through publications, seminars and speaking engagements, earning him international recognition as an ISMS expert.

Carlson has a deep understanding of both infrastructure and management that is critical to implementing an effective ISMS. Applying his diverse skills in research and development; system design and architecture; programming and administration; strategy; and response, Carlson ensures cross-functional and synergistic security programs. Carlson has successfully implemented certifiable ISMS across a breadth of industries: government, intelligence, retail, health care, financial services, higher education, telecommunications and research.

Carlson is a graduate Electrical Engineer (BSEE), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), ISMS Auditor certified by both BSI and BVQi, itSMF ITIL certified, SME in ISO 27001/ISO27002, and holds various other industry and educational certifications.

While a native to the upper Midwest, Carlson values the cross-cultural and international perspectives he has gained through his information security work on seven continents and in 126 countries. Tom speaks several languages, is a champion old-time fiddler, and is the real-life "Comms Tom" immortalized in the New York Times best-selling book Ice Bound.