About Ridgeback InfoSec
Ridgeback InfoSec was founded in 2023 to train cybersecurity professionals in real tools, real techniques, and real tradecraft.
We teach:
- Operators how to break in
- Analysts how to detect
- Leaders how to respond
We bring years of field experience from both building and attacking IT systems.
Our Story
Founded in 2023 by Chris Traynor, Ridgeback InfoSec emerged from a clear need in the cybersecurity training landscape: bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world practice.
After years conducting penetration tests at Black Hills Information Security and witnessing firsthand the disconnect between what practitioners learn in training and what they actually need in the field, Chris set out to build something different. Ridgeback InfoSec focuses on hands-on tool mastery using the same techniques and workflows that professional operators use every day.
We've trained hundreds of students worldwide through conferences like Wild West Hackin' Fest, BSides Charleston, and KernelCon, as well as through the Antisyphon Training platform. Our approach is straightforward: if you're going to learn offensive security, you should learn it from someone who does it every day.
Our Impact
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500+
Students trained worldwide
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20 years
Combined dev & security experience
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4 GIAC
Certifications held by instructor
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15+
Conferences taught at across the World
What Makes Us Different
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Practical Tool Mastery
We focus on hands-on tool usage that operators actually use in the field. No sanitized demos or theory-only exercises—you'll work with real offensive tools in realistic scenarios.
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Live-Fire Labs
Our students don't just read about attacks—they execute them. Every course includes extensive lab time in safe, controlled environments.
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Clarity & Structure
Chris brings nearly 20 years of teaching, development, and security experience to create courses with clear learning paths and logical progression from fundamentals to operational techniques.
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Real-World Operator Experience
Training designed by a practicing pentester who actively conducts assessments at Black Hills Information Security. You're learning current techniques, not outdated methods.
Whether you're just starting or sharpening your edge, Ridgeback InfoSec is here to help.
Meet Chris Traynor - Founder & Lead Instructor
Chris Traynor is a Penetration Tester at Black Hills Information Security (BHIS), where he conducts security assessments of web applications, mobile apps, APIs, and networks for clients across multiple industries.
As the founder of Ridgeback InfoSec, Chris has authored two comprehensive offensive security courses—Offensive Tooling Foundations and Offensive Tooling for Operators—which he teaches through Antisyphon Training and at security conferences nationwide.
With nearly two decades of experience spanning web/mobile development, QA automation, and penetration testing, Chris brings a unique perspective to offensive security training. His development background allows him to explain not just what attackers do, but why systems fail and how to think like both builder and breaker.
Certifications
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GPEN
GIAC Penetration Tester
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GWAPT
GIAC Web App Pen Tester
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GCIH
GIAC Incident Handler
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GSEC
GIAC Security Essentials
Teaching Philosophy
Chris believes the best way to learn offensive security is through doing, not just watching. His courses emphasize hands-on lab work, live demonstrations, and real-world scenarios over slide-heavy lectures. Students leave with practical skills they can apply immediately.
Beyond Security
When not pentesting or teaching, Chris enjoys adventuring with his wife and daughters, exercising, and walking with his dog. He's also a passionate advocate for stroke awareness, having shared his personal story at PancakesCon2.
Industry Recognition
Chris Traynor and Ridgeback InfoSec have been featured at leading security conferences and media outlets:
Featured At:
- Wild West Hackin' Fest (Training & Workshops)
- BSides Charleston (Talks & Training)
- BSides Harrisburg (Conference Presentations)
- BSides Greenville (Conference Talks)
- KernelCon (Training Programs)
- PancakesCon (Virtual Presentations)
- Antisyphon Training (Course Platform Partner)
Media & Podcasts:
- The Phillip Wylie Show
- Exploring Information Security Podcast
- Ethical Hacking, Guests and Wholesomeness Podcast
- Paladin Security Interview
Ready to Learn More?
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Ridgeback InfoSec, LLC