CyberChampions

In the rapidly shifting landscape of cybersecurity, few companies can claim the longevity, adaptability, and deep Canadian roots of ISA Cyber Security. Founded in 1992 by Rick Uhrich, the company began as Information Systems Architects, a name it would officially retire in 2019 to become what it is today: a national leader in cyber defense services. Behind this transformation stands Kevin Dawson, who joined ISA in 1998, took the helm in 2014, and has since guided its evolution from a traditional value-added reseller to a nimble, AI-forward cyber services company.

“We started as a reseller that did some services. Now, we’re a cyber services firm that can offer products, a 180-degree shift,” Kevin recalls.

From Tragedy to Transformation

After Rick’s untimely passing in 2014, Kevin assumed leadership during a pivotal time. The organization was already sensing that its legacy model, selling products and reselling solutions was becoming insufficient in an era that demanded constant vigilance, managed services, and strategic insight.

The shift wasn’t without growing pains. Overextending into IT processes that weren't ISA’s core strength, and overhiring ahead of forecasted revenue post-COVID, taught valuable lessons about focusing on what matters most.

“Eyes on glass, triage, and contextualization, that’s where we found our real value to clients,” said Kevin.

Building the Right Way: From Partnerships to Ownership

By 2014, ISA made a bold move: it would build its own in-house Security Operations Center (SOC), repatriating services it had previously partnered out. Today, it operates using best-of-breed technologies from vendors like Trellix, SentinelOne, and Microsoft, not to compete with platform creators, but to serve as the connective tissue that helps clients manage and optimize those tools.

This approach, blending strategic partnerships with operational ownership, has become a hallmark of ISA’s trusted service delivery.

People First, Always

ISA’s long-standing relationships, some spanning over 20 years, speak volumes about its people-first culture. Kevin shares the story of one of ISA’s first customers, David Reid, who eventually joined the company after retiring. It's a testament to the company's approach to lasting partnerships, built on honesty and shared responsibility.

This client-centric philosophy became even more clear when a customer once said, “That sounds like a you problem, not a me problem.” It was a turning point that reframed ISA’s mission: to help customers solve problems collaboratively, not just as vendors but as true partners.

A Canadian Identity in a Global Industry

In a world where cybersecurity is often outsourced to global service hubs, ISA's proudly Canadian identity stands out. With over 70 employees based in Canada, the company prioritizes local hiring, understands Canadian regulations and cultural context, and provides swift response times unmatched by offshore alternatives.

“Especially in today’s geopolitical climate, prioritizing Canadian cybersecurity has never been more important,” Kevin emphasizes.

This focus also translates into economic resilience, by reinvesting in Canadian talent and organizations, ISA supports national innovation, cyber preparedness, and job creation.

Embracing AI the Right Way

While many companies are racing to bolt on AI features, ISA is taking a measured, intentional approach. Its “AI Plus” strategy means leading with AI capabilities, not as afterthoughts, but as core components of its service design.

“There’s ‘plus AI,’ where AI is tacked onto an existing product. But we believe in ‘AI Plus’, AI first, with services designed around it,” Kevin explains.

Still, Kevin is cautious. AI isn’t just a business enabler,  it’s also a risk vector if implemented carelessly. Organizations must consider data exposure, regulatory compliance, and ethical use as they race to integrate AI into their cybersecurity frameworks.

Looking Forward

ISA sees significant opportunity in the healthcare and public sectors, which face increasing digital threats and regulatory pressure. But regardless of sector, the company is laser-focused on one thing: remaining a trusted, client-first cybersecurity partner.

The ISA story is one of resilience, reinvention, and real-world leadership. With a strong foundation in Canadian values, a commitment to listening to clients, and a forward-thinking approach to AI, ISA Cyber Security is not just surviving the evolution of cybersecurity, it’s helping define it.

More information on ISA Cybersecurity and Kevin can be found here.