Pax8's Matt Lee Honored as GTIA 2024-25 Member of the Year for Cybersecurity Advocacy

Matt Lee Achieves GTIA Member of the Year 2024-25

In a remarkable acknowledgment of his unwavering commitment to the field of cybersecurity, Matt Lee, Senior Director of Security and Compliance at Pax8, has been awarded the GTIA 2024-25 Member of the Year by the Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA). This nonprofit community plays a pivotal role in connecting and representing the global IT channel, and Lee's selection highlights his extensive contributions in empowering IT service providers (ITSPs) and enhancing cybersecurity resilience worldwide.

Lee's journey in cybersecurity education spans several years, during which he has emerged as a prominent figure in the industry. His credentials are impressive—Lee actively participates on the GTIA Cybersecurity Executive Council as well as the Cybersecurity Trustmark Working Group. His leadership within these forums has significantly influenced the standardization and improvement of cybersecurity measures among ITSPs, promoting a clearer understanding of compliance and best practices.

One of Lee's key accomplishments is the refinement of the GTIA Cybersecurity Trustmark program. This initiative allows ITSPs to distinguish themselves based on adherence to industry standards, thereby building trust with clients by assuring them that their service providers are committed to maintaining high levels of cybersecurity maturity. Lee’s efforts have provided a structured pathway for ITSPs to enhance their cybersecurity practices and strategies, ensuring they are equipped to tackle evolving cyber threats.

Furthermore, Lee has distinguished himself as a mentor and educator in the IT ecosystem, enabling ITSPs to better understand and respond to the latest cyber threats. Through engaging mediums such as podcasts, including the popular “Beard Banter,” “TECHnically Unraveled,” and “MSP1337,” he shares invaluable insights that break down complex cybersecurity topics into accessible concepts. His dynamic approach facilitates meaningful discussions and knowledge sharing, fostering a community of engaged and informed professionals.

In addition to his podcasting efforts, Lee dedicates extensive time to speaking engagements across the globe, presenting at various conferences and educational forums. This year alone, he has completed over 100 presentations, effectively reaching and educating scores of ITSPs and enhancing their cybersecurity readiness.

Expressing his gratitude upon receiving this prestigious honor, Lee stated, “There’s nothing I am more passionate about than helping ITSPs to elevate their capabilities and create a safer future around cybersecurity. I’m truly honored to be named the GTIA Member of the Year and look forward to building on the work I’ve already done.”

MJ Shoer, Chief Community Officer of GTIA, reflected on Lee’s impact, emphasizing, “Matt Lee embodies the core values of GTIA. His leadership in cybersecurity and his dedication to nurturing the community have made a significant difference for our members and the greater IT channel ecosystem.” The acknowledgment of Lee’s work culminated in a celebratory awards ceremony during ChannelCon, the IT channel's premier annual conference, held in Nashville from July 29 to 31, 2025.

The GTIA Member of the Year Award stands as the highest honor awarded by the GTIA annually, recognizing a member’s contributions to the community. Those selected must have maintained good standing within the organization for at least one year and are chosen based on the recommendations of a selection committee made up of past award recipients.

The Global Technology Industry Association continues to thrive in providing resources, networking opportunities, and setting industry standards that empower members within the rapidly evolving technology landscape. Through its initiatives and community engagement, the GTIA represents a diverse group of professionals, including more than 2,000 MSPs, solution providers, vendors, and distributors in the IT channel.

To learn more about GTIA and their inspired community work, visit gtia.org.