Connect Vegas Episode 17 - Adam Lopez

In this episode of the Connect Vegas Podcast, host Ben Laifsky sits down with Adam Lopez, an experienced IT professional and the President of CMIT Solutions of Las Vegas. Adam shares insights into cybersecurity, small business tech needs, and his mission to make IT approachable for everyone—from large enterprises to everyday users. With a background in casino IT and a passion for community education, Adam is working to shape the future of cybersecurity and IT training in Las Vegas.

Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of modern cybersecurity threats, actionable ways to protect their business, and an appreciation for how local IT providers like CMIT Solutions are supporting Southern Nevada’s business landscape.

Key Topics Covered:

• CMIT Solutions Overview: Local managed service provider offering IT helpdesk, cybersecurity, and endpoint monitoring for SMBs and larger clients.
• Cybersecurity Challenges: Common threats like phishing, smishing, and QR scams; why people are the weakest link in security.
• Affordable Protection: Preventative tools like EDR and multi-factor authentication—even basic plans for as low as $19.99/month.
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Vision: Adam’s plan to build a nonprofit SOC/SIEM in Las Vegas focused on training and youth development.
• Background in Casino IT: 20+ years in major gaming companies like Caesars, Hard Rock, and Golden Entertainment.
• Education and Community Impact: Collaborations with Tech Impact, LVEP, and veterans’ organizations to train and place new IT talent.
• Proactive IT Philosophy: Moving from break/fix to preventative care, with a strong focus on local customer service.
• Business Ownership Journey: Transition from corporate roles to building his own CMIT franchise and lessons learned from entrepreneurship.
• Favorite Local Recommendations: Meals at Viva Zapatas and North Italia, city views from Foundation Room and Sunset Road, and appreciation for Las Vegas’s fast-paced growth.

Key Quotes:

• “Unfortunately, we’re always the pound of cure. People often call us after something has already gone wrong.”
• “Phishing is still the number one threat—but smishing and QR phishing are growing fast.”
• “Vegas is still a small town. We all know someone in every industry. It makes this city special.”
• “Customer service is number one. We’re not here for a dollar—we’re here to be your partner.”
• “Opportunities don’t just happen. You create them through hard work, perseverance, and lifting others as you rise.”
• “Training and education are the cheapest—and best—ways to prevent cyber attacks.”
• “It’s okay to ask questions. IT shouldn’t be intimidating. Questions are free.”
• “We’re trying to stop these SOCs from going offshore by building talent here in Las Vegas.”