Security BSides Las Vegas 2025

Matt Torbin

Matt Torbin has been a driving force in secure software development for over 20 years, influencing all aspects of the software development lifecycle. He began his career as a full-stack engineer with a focus on UI/UX, creating user experiences for renowned brands including the Philadelphia Inquirer, Anthropologie, and VEVO, engaging millions of users.

In the last several years, Matt has shifted his focus to information security. In his current role as the Manager of Application Security at Quanata, he collaborates closely with product and engineering teams to advance product security best practices and deliver comprehensive security training. His industry contributions span public speaking, authorship, and community involvement. He has presented at conferences such as DEF CON and Day of Shecurity (DoS), authored privacy articles for 2600 Magazine: The Hacker Quarterly, and held key volunteer roles in initiatives including the Packet Hacking Village, Day of Shecurity, and BSidesSF. Among his achievements, he co-founded the DoS conference, realizing his vision for a more inclusive event.

Outside of work, Matt mentors emerging professionals in the DoS community. A passionate skateboarder and longboarder, he often spends time with his son at skate parks throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.


Session

08-05
14:00
45min
Your Interview Game is Weak: Gamifying Technical Interviews through Role-Playing
Matt Torbin

The conventional approach to conducting technical engineering interviews is outdated and fundamentally flawed. These practices, which rely heavily on computer science challenges or rote memorization, often contribute to a high rate of false positives and false negatives. Furthermore, these interviews frequently fail to assess the skills necessary for the actual role. As a result, organizations tend to hire candidates who excel at navigating the interview process but may not be the best fit for the position or the organizational culture. Conversely, highly qualified candidates who would otherwise be well-suited for the role are frequently overlooked. Such experiences can leave candidates with a negative perception of the organization, regardless of their final interview outcome. A more effective approach is needed.

Join Matt Torbin to discuss the data surrounding technical interviewing and learn about an interactive interviewing experience that has been tested, leaving candidates and team members with a positive experience. It is designed to assess candidates' skills in direct relation to the work they will perform within the hiring organization. This refined interview process focuses on the critical competencies required for the role and aims to be engaging and approachable, ensuring that candidates, regardless of outcome, perceive the experience positively.

Hire Ground
Florentine B