My full name is Nick Schmitz, but growing up everyone called me “Schmitdy”. I am a Principal Microsoft Security Architect, hence the name SchmidySec. I’ve spent over six years deep in the Microsoft 365 world helping organizations secure their cloud environments before things go sideways.
I work at GuidePoint Security, which has been a great place to land. I get to work with talented people and help customers tackle real security challenges across identity, endpoints, and Microsoft cloud architecture. A lot of my job is taking security concepts and making them work in the real world with actual users, messy environments, and all the chaos that comes with it.
Most of my time goes into helping organizations design and mature their Microsoft security posture, moving toward practical Zero Trust implementations that people can actually live with. I’m also passionate about mentoring. I genuinely enjoy helping coworkers, customers, and folks breaking into the industry build their skills and confidence. Having a mentor when you’re getting into security makes a huge difference, and I try to be that for others when I can.
I also think work doesn’t have to be boring. I like keeping things fun whether that’s dropping a well-timed meme in chat, cracking jokes, or just keeping the mood light. You can take security seriously and still enjoy the work.
Before tech, I was a Sheriff’s Deputy and later a Police Officer. That background taught me how to communicate with just about anyone, lead under pressure, and make quick decisions when there’s no perfect answer. I was often the one bringing calm into tense or dangerous situations and working to deescalate them. That taught me empathy, patience, and how to read a room fast all skills that translate well to navigating high-pressure client situations and staying steady when consulting gets chaotic.
I do miss being a cop. Long term it wasn’t something I wanted to retire from, but I miss the chases, the adrenaline, the absolute randomness of every shift, and the “you can’t make this up” stories (I have a ton).
I live in Wisconsin with my wife and our 4 cats (see below). Outside of work, I normally spend my time either playing games (PC FTW), doing house projects, or nerding out about space and movies.
