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Based in Fairfield County, Connecticut, Matthew Brodacki is a highly experienced cybersecurity leader and law enforcement professional.
As captain of the Regional Technical Investigations Unit (TIU) for Southwest Connecticut, he leads a team responsible for handling more than 500 complex cyber cases per year. With a strong background in both the public and private sectors, Matthew has consulted with major healthcare institutions and played a critical role in establishing a nationally recognized cybercrime laboratory.
His expertise is backed by dual master’s degrees in public administration and digital forensics, and he is a federal deputy working closely with the U.S. Secret Service. In addition to his professional achievements, Matthew is deeply involved in community service, contributing to initiatives such as the Sandy Hook Playground Project and working with the Fairfield County NAACP Task Force. He is also a dedicated board member of the Rowan Center and advocates for victims of sexual assault.
What inspires you to stay at the forefront of law enforcement and cybersecurity?
I have always been driven by the idea that what we do has a tangible impact on people’s lives. In cybersecurity, the stakes are incredibly high: an attack could disrupt an entire community, cause financial devastation, or even jeopardize someone’s safety. The rapidly evolving nature of cyber threats keeps me motivated to stay ahead, because falling behind is not an option. On the law enforcement side, it’s the same principle. Every day I go to work protecting my community, using technology and strategy to outwit those who seek to do harm. It’s about making a real difference, whether that’s stopping a cybercriminal or ensuring our initiatives have a positive, lasting impact.
How do you approach problem solving in such a fast-paced, fast-paced environment?
My approach to problem solving is both strategic and adaptable. In our field, we cannot afford to be reactive; we have to be proactive. I start by understanding the full scope of the problem, whether it’s a major data breach or a complex criminal case. I then work with my team to map out a methodical plan that incorporates both proven tactics and innovative approaches. Communication and collaboration are the key words. The best solutions come from leveraging my team’s expertise and the resources we have at our disposal. Technology plays a major role in this, especially when it comes to analyzing data and anticipating an opponent’s next move. But at its core, it’s about staying calm under pressure and staying committed to our mission to protect the community.
With your dual background in cybersecurity and law enforcement, how do you balance the needs of both areas?
It’s a delicate balance, but one that has become second nature to me over the years. In many ways the two fields complement each other. Cybersecurity is all about foresight and precision, while law enforcement requires quick thinking and adaptability. I have learned to draw from both disciplines, whether I am leading a cyber investigation or responding to an emergency. One of the keys to balancing these needs is understanding that technology is a tool, but it’s the people who use it who make the biggest difference. In law enforcement you have to think about the human impact, while in cybersecurity you have to anticipate the next technological challenge. Balancing these demands requires a clear vision and a commitment to continuous improvement.
How has your work on initiatives like the Sandy Hook Playground Project influenced your professional outlook?
Working on the Sandy Hook Playground Project was incredibly meaningful and has had a profound impact on the way I view my role in the community. After such a heartbreaking tragedy, being able to contribute to something that brought joy and healing reminded us why public service is important. It wasn’t about me; it was about creating something that families can enjoy for years to come. That experience reinforced the idea that our work, whether in law enforcement or cybersecurity, should always be focused on improving lives and building trust within the community. It has also taught me that even in the face of overwhelming challenges, we have the power to create positive change. It is this mentality that drives me every day.
What do you see as the biggest challenge for law enforcement and cybersecurity in the future?
The biggest challenge is to stay ahead in a world where technology is evolving faster than our ability to regulate and defend against it. Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using AI, machine learning and other advanced tools to exploit vulnerabilities. On the law enforcement side, the challenge is not only keeping up with this progress, but also integrating it in a way that is ethical and protects citizens’ privacy. Finding a balance between the need for security and the protection of individual rights is a complex and ongoing struggle. Furthermore, it is crucial to recruit and train the next generation of officers and analysts who can operate in this digital world. We need people who are not only technically savvy, but also deeply committed to upholding fairness and integrity.
What keeps you grounded amid the pressures of your career?
My family and my commitment to the community keep me grounded. When you work in high-stakes environments, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos. But knowing that I’m making a difference for the people I care about brings me back to what’s important. I also stay grounded by giving back to the community in ways not directly related to my work, such as serving on the Rowan Center board. Participating in community service reminds me that we are all connected and that our efforts matter on a human level. Finally, I take time for activities I enjoy, such as walking and working on carpentry projects. Those moments give me the balance I need to be effective in my professional life.
How do you stay informed about emerging technologies and trends in cybersecurity?
Continuous learning is a cornerstone of my career. In an area like cybersecurity, you can’t afford to be complacent. I make it a point to attend industry conferences, participate in specialized training sessions and stay in touch with experts around the world. It’s about having an insatiable curiosity and a willingness to adapt. Additionally, being a federal deputy and working with partners like the U.S. Secret Service gives me access to cutting-edge resources and insights. But it’s not just about absorbing information. I’m always thinking about how I can implement these improvements in ways that are practical and useful for my team and the community.
What’s next for you, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, I look forward to pushing the boundaries of cybersecurity and exploring how we can better use AI and machine learning to anticipate and counter threats. There is so much potential for innovation and I want to ensure that our strategies are not only effective, but also sustainable for the future. On a personal level, I want to deepen my involvement in community initiatives. Whether it is through the NAACP Task Force or through other projects that uplift the people of Fairfield County, I want to continue to make a positive impact. Ultimately, my goal is to build systems and relationships that will last long after my involvement, creating a legacy that reflects a career dedicated to service and innovation.