Eric Trexler
SVP of Public Sector, Palo Alto Networks
Helping the Defense Department secure its network infrastructure by developing a zero-trust platform was no small feat for Eric Trexler and his team.
They created a consistent architecture across appliance, software and secure access form factors to provide a modern and cloud-delivered platform that aligns with the department’s Thunderdome initiative goals of enhanced security, improved performance and simplified network architecture.
Why Watch
In 2025, his team is focused on the future. Classic encryption methods are predicted to become vulnerable to quantum-powered adversaries within the next 10 years, making it imperative for public sector agencies relying on public key infrastructure cryptography to start applying these standards now. In 2025, Trexler is heavily focused on helping customers integrate post-quantum cryptography standards and cryptographic agility into their cybersecurity systems through tools like Palo Alto Networks’ Next-Generation Firewall.
As a proud partner of the National Institute of Standards and Technology and member of the Institute’s National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence Migration to Post-Quantum Cryptography, his team is focused on advising customers through proactive transitions to these new encryption protocols to prevent quantum-powered threat actors.
“In cybersecurity, you cannot succeed without a great team working with you,” Trexler said. “I’ve never worked for a company with a team or products of the caliber that we have at Palo Alto Networks. Our teamwork has helped change the way agencies secure themselves and I’m excited to continue this forward momentum in 2025.”
Fun fact: “I love to fly and am actively obtaining my pilot’s license,” Trexler said. “I’ve found that stepping away from my desk to enjoy my passions has helped me avoid burnout, especially in an action-packed field like cybersecurity.”