Another day comes to a close, but the great content and conversations haven’t slowed down at all. 

Espionage & Astrophysics

Not often do we get to say words like countersubversion, counterespionage and counterterrorism with excitement in our voice. However, today former MI5 Director Dame Stella Rimington took to our keynote stage to present on the topics of leadership and teamwork. Dame Stella addressed a variety of topics from her personal journey to becoming the Director General. An eye opener for some of our younger attendees was a throwback to a day when intercepting communications was the physical possession of paper messages between human beings and not email or dropped USBs. The modern day attacks may now be more tech-based, but these life lessons from a global icon have no expiration.

This afternoon our audience was able to a unique keynote experience: “An Astrophysicist Reads the Newspaper: Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson Explores Our World.” Attendees were able to explore with Dr. Tyson all that is funny, illuminating and alarming about what appears in the world’s current events as seen through the lens of the world’s most famous astrophysicist.

College Day

As the world becomes more and more reliant on digital information, the need to protect that data increases. By 2020, cybersecurity jobs will number 1.5 million worldwide. RSA Conference created College Day to help students find their ideal career options through meeting both industry veterans and companies that are looking for young, talented students to join their ranks. This year, 60 students had access to over 50 sessions, a day in the life of a security expert panel, and met with sponsors during an open house.

Party on Wayne, Party on Garth

We are mixing things up. The Codebreakers’ bash of the 90s is no more, and the new RSAC Bash on Thursday night allows you to choose the party (or parties) that fits your style: Enjoy live blues at The Jam at City View at the Metreon. Test your skills at The Game, featuring billiards and video games at Jillian’s. The Taste offers a beer and wine tasting under the stars in the Mint Plaza. And finally, head to The Groove to listen to two DJs (including DJ Arty) at the Mezzanine Club. Go to one, go to them all – we hope to see you later tonight!

Looking ahead

• Closing Entertainment by Seth Meyers: The Emmy Award-winning writer and current Late Night host will bring his brand of humor and intellect to the RSA Conference stage tomorrow afternoon!

Heard in the Press Room

• Bank Info Security:  RSA Conference update: Talking Phishing
• Help Net Security: Insider threat solution for rapid response to in-progress attacks
• Info Security: #RSAC: Hacking Blockchain
• ZDNet: Eric Schmidt: AI research needs to be done in the open, not in military labs