CyberWire Daily: Andrew Maloney – Never-ending Thirst for Knowledge

Host: N2K Networks
Guest: Andrew Maloney, COO & Co-founder of Query.AI
Release Date: September 7, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode features Andrew Maloney, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Query.AI, sharing his journey from a blue-collar upbringing and military service to executive leadership in cybersecurity. Maloney discusses the value of hands-on learning, lessons from the military, the evolution of cybersecurity careers, and the importance of transparency and drive in professional growth.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Upbringing and Early Influences

• Blue-collar Family Roots:
  • Grew up surrounded by trade professions (farming, air conditioning, electrician work).
  • Early exposure to “tinkering,” but found the trades physically demanding.
  • “I was quick to learn that those were hard professions.” (01:45)
• Interest in Technology & Military Service:
  • Attracted to computers and had an early desire to serve in the military.
  • Enlisted in the Air Force at age 17 with a parental waiver.

2. Military Career and Entry Into Cybersecurity

• Initial Tech Experience:
  • Considered Navy cryptography but opted for Air Force computer operations after strong math/science scores on the ASVAB.
  • Describes Air Force tech training as a “crash course and a deep dive directly into what it takes to really do the job, frankly.” (03:00)
• Deployment and Practical Experience:
  • Forward deployed to Oman (2003, post–Iraq War), where necessity and willingness to volunteer led him into security roles.
  • “That's actually where I got my break into security.” (05:12)
• Hands-On Foundation:
  • Military roles provided deep, practical understanding of computer systems—processing, memory, operations—which helped in later civilian success.
  • “All of these different components really have to fit together in order to effectively secure an environment.” (06:00)
• Thirst for Knowledge:
  • Continuous learning is essential; “The more I learned, the more I realized I had to learn. It was like this never ending thirst for knowledge.” (06:24)

3. Civilian Transition and Career Development

• Contracting and FBI Work:
  • Entered government contracting, supporting FBI Enterprise Security Operations Center after Robert Hansen spy case.
  • Chose roles aligned with sense of mission and service.
• Evolving Professional Responsibilities:
  • Moved from hands-on technical work to business operations, strategy, and team leadership.
  • Stresses the shift from direct technical work to higher-level problem-solving and resource management.
  • “I still wear the tech hat... but I'm by no means hands on keyboard anymore.” (07:05)

4. Leadership Philosophy

• Seeking Team Input and Accountability:
  • Asks in interviews: “What do I need to be able to do for you to make you successful?” (07:33)
  • Values collective insight: “It does take the village to really understand.” (08:00)
  • Balances decision-making and inclusiveness—“There’s aspects of dictatorship in there, frankly, because ultimately someone has to make a decision and be accountable... but I always want input and everyone does have a seat at the table.” (07:45)
• Transparency as a Core Value:
  • Emphasizes transparent communication up and down the organization.
  • Claims transparency is key, even though “people often shy away from being direct and transparent... what I find really brings people together... is that everyone is on the same page.” (08:15)
  • “Something that we've instilled in the culture of Query.AI from the very earliest inception is transparency.” (08:38)

5. Career Advice & Mentorship

• Drive and Persistence:
  • Success starts with inner drive and a willingness to work for achievements.
    • “There are no handouts... you have to be willing to put in the work.” (08:55)
    • “If I'm persistent, I will ultimately get there. And that's the mindset you gotta be willing to put in the work.” (09:05)
• Self-Advocacy:
  • Encourages professionals not to sell themselves short or be limited by previous roles.
    • “The day that I stopped being a director and started becoming a VP is the day that I stopped selling myself as a director. You've got to keep pushing and you've got to believe in yourself and never sell yourself short.” (09:15)

Memorable Quotes

• On humility and learning:

  • “The more I learned, the more I realized I had to learn. It was like this never ending thirst for knowledge.” (06:24)

• On leadership and teamwork:

  • “I always want input and everyone does have a seat at the table. I collectively get as much insights as I can from the team. I think it does take the village to really understand.” (08:00)

• On company culture:

  • “Something that we've instilled in the culture of Query.AI from the very earliest inception is transparency.” (08:38)

• On perseverance:

  • “There are no handouts. Right. And sometimes it's easy to forget...it's going to take work, it's going to take effort, but if I'm persistent, I will ultimately get there.” (08:55)

• On self-promotion:

  • “The day that I stopped being a director and started becoming a VP is the day that I stopped selling myself as a director.” (09:15)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 01:33: Andrew Maloney’s background and blue-collar roots
• 02:30: Decision to join the military and interest in technology
• 03:08: Air Force training and foundation in computer operations
• 05:12: First experiences in cybersecurity during deployment
• 06:00: Importance of understanding the building blocks of security
• 06:24: Ongoing learning and curiosity
• 07:05: Transitioning from hands-on to business leadership in cyber
• 07:33: Leadership questions and team empowerment
• 08:00: Emphasis on collaboration and transparency
• 08:55: Advice on professional persistence and self-advocacy
• 09:15: The importance of believing in and pushing yourself

Conclusion

Andrew Maloney’s story illustrates the power of curiosity, service, and drive in the cybersecurity industry. From hands-on military beginnings to shaping the culture and strategy of a growing tech company, Maloney’s journey is filled with lessons on learning, leadership, and self-belief. His advice on transparency, persistence, and never underestimating oneself provides valuable guidance for anyone aiming to excel in cybersecurity or leadership.