Profile
Zac Staples is the Founder and CEO of Fathom5, an Austin, Texas-based technology company dedicated to designing secure infrastructure for AI-powered machines that transform industrial resilience and drive defense innovation. Since founding Fathom5 in 2018, Zac has championed cyber-resilient designs and innovative solutions for the most complex operational technology challenges. Under his leadership, Fathom5 has reached significant milestones, including deploying AI aboard U.S. Navy warships – a pioneering achievement in defense technology – and holds 17 patents for advanced actuators and cybersecurity. His commitment to blending next-generation technology with legacy systems has positioned Fathom5 as a trusted partner in national defense and industrial innovation.
Zac’s distinguished career began with over two decades of service in the U.S. Navy, where he held key roles across various assignments and ultimately served as the Director of the Center for Cyber Warfare at the Naval Postgraduate School. He led a team of PhDs, graduate students and technical staff in this role, focusing on cutting-edge research and development to bolster the Navy’s cyberspace capabilities. His team also established the Engineering Enclave for Maritime Security – a first-of-its-kind lab focused on electronic reliability and cybersecurity for shipboard navigation and control systems. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored with the Secretary of the Navy’s ""Innovation Catalyst"" award in 2017, a testament to his pioneering work in digital and cyber defense.
Zac’s experience in the Navy is foundational to Fathom5’s mission and strategic direction. He brings a rare combination of tactical knowledge and a forward-looking approach, blending high reliability with advanced technology to protect critical infrastructure and support national security. At Fathom5, Zac and his team specialize in secure infrastructure, operational technology and AI-based solutions that empower organizations to operate safely and effectively in high-stakes environments. Their flagship platform, TempestOS, is at the forefront of AI enablement at the tactical edge, safeguarding mission-critical operations for the U.S. Navy and other industrial leaders. By merging agile prototyping, rigorous cybersecurity measures and expertise in operational systems, Fathom5 enables clients to outpace emerging threats and set new standards for innovation delivery in highly regulated environments.
Zac’s vision for Fathom5 extends beyond individual projects. He believes in a future where secure, intelligent technology underpins industrial resilience, and his work emphasizes bridging traditional infrastructure with cutting-edge cyber defense to ensure security and operational excellence. His leadership values are rooted in integrity, mission-focused innovation and the pursuit of excellence, driving Fathom5 to create meaningful advancements that support both industry and national security.
Beyond his work with Fathom5, Zac actively contributes to the defense and technology communities, sharing insights and offering his expertise in AI enablement for critical infrastructure. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a B.S. in Engineering and holds an M.A. in International Relations from the Naval Postgraduate School.
In his personal life, Zac enjoys carefully tending his vegetable garden and wonders why his pastures grow new rocks without any help.
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