Clayton IT Professionals Protect Town Systems from Everyday Cyber Risks
One email. That is all it can take to put an entire organization at risk. Chief Information Officer John Mack says a single click on the wrong link can lead to stolen credentials, shut down systems, or even spark a ransomware attack. For towns and cities, those consequences do not just affect employees. They can disrupt the everyday services that residents rely on.
It is why the Town of Clayton is recognizing National IT Professionals Day on September 16 by highlighting its seven-member Information Technology Department. This small but mighty team works quietly behind the scenes to maintain Town systems, prevent cyberattacks, and support staff across every department. In today’s digital world, their work keeps Clayton safe and connected.
Part of that protection comes down to people, not just technology. Mack shared the department spends as much time training staff as it does monitoring networks because one of the greatest risks is not a hacker breaking in. It is a distracted employee clicking the wrong link.
“It only takes one second of being off guard,” said Mack. “That is why education and awareness are so important.”
To support this, the department recently implemented Arctic Wolf, a cybersecurity program that provides short, three-to-five-minute lessons to help employees recognize and respond to potential threats, including suspicious emails, texts, or phone calls. By delivering frequent, bite-sized training, the program keeps cybersecurity top of mind. The lessons staff learn from Arctic Wolf also offer guidance for staying safe online at home.
“Education is our first line of defense. The more we learn, the safer we all are,” said Mack.
The IT Department suggests residents follow the same safety practices at home:
- Be cautious of unexpected messages. Do not click on unknown links.
- Use strong, unique passwords and change them often.
- Turn on two-factor authentication when possible.
Mack emphasizes staying ahead of digital threats requires more than technology. It requires understanding how people interact with it.
“Technology changes so fast, and it can be confusing,” he said. “Helping people understand how to stay safe is just as important as securing Town systems.”
The department’s training and protective measures extend beyond individual employees. While much of their work happens quietly out of view, the IT team supports nearly every part of Town operations.
“Technology touches everything we do,” said Mack. “From network security to staff training, we are safeguarding more than computers. We are protecting people and the services they depend on.”
Leading a team responsible for so much requires experience and a deep understanding of technology. Mack brings years of knowledge from both local government and the private sector, giving him a unique perspective on how to keep systems running and staff supported.
“I was exposed to computers as a kid. My dad worked for IBM and General Electric, and that gave me a head start,” he said. “Honestly, I once wanted to be a rock star, but instead I found my way into IT. I guess this is my stage now.”
Mack relayed his early experiences with problem-solving and technology continue to shape the way he leads the department today. He develops practical guides, quick reference tips, and real-world scenarios for staff, helping make complex concepts easier to understand.
