Who We Are
The Sonoran Desert Security User Group (SDSUG) is the longest‑standing security community in Arizona. It is based in “The Valley of the Sun,” Phoenix, Arizona.
Since 2001, SDSUG has brought together security professionals, researchers, engineers, and curious learners for open, vendor‑neutral knowledge sharing.
Our purpose has always been simple: create a space where real practitioners can learn from one another, stay current, and build meaningful connections in the Southwest security community.
What We Do
SDSUG hosts monthly meetings featuring:
- technical presentations
- hands‑on demonstrations
- community discussions
- emerging security topics
- opportunities to connect with peers
Our meetings are informal, approachable, and grounded in real‑world experience. No sales pitches. No pressure. Just a community of people who care about security and want to learn together.
Our History
SDSUG was founded by Leo J. Hauguel, who stewarded the group for more than two decades. Under his leadership, SDSUG became a trusted, consistent presence in the Phoenix security landscape — a place where practitioners could show up, learn something useful, and feel part of a community.
The group’s long‑running website and meeting structure reflect that history. As SDSUG enters its next chapter, we continue to honor the culture Leo built: accessible, grounded, and community‑driven.
Leadership
SDSUG is currently led by Hunter Storm, who continues the group’s legacy of practitioner‑first stewardship while modernizing the infrastructure that supports it. The goal is simple: keep what works, improve what helps, and ensure SDSUG remains a stable, welcoming home for the Phoenix security community.
Modernization and Continuity
In 2026, SDSUG began refreshing its digital infrastructure to improve clarity, accessibility, and long‑term sustainability. These updates include:
- a streamlined website
- clearer information architecture
- improved navigation and mobile accessibility
- refreshed content standards
These changes are simply a light polish — a way to make it easier for members to stay connected and informed. SDSUG’s culture, values, and community spirit remain exactly the same. We’re presenting the group with a bit more clarity and structure, while keeping the familiar, practitioner‑first environment that has defined SDSUG since the beginning.
Our Sponsors
We appreciate the partnership of our esteemed sponsors in helping SDSUG remain an active part of the Phoenix security landscape.
ISARA
SDSUG is proudly supported by ISARA, whose integrity, professionalism, and practitioner‑aligned values make them an ideal partner. Their support strengthens the group without influencing its content, culture, or independence.
University of Advancing Technology (UAT)
SDSUG is grateful to the University of Advancing Technology (UAT) for providing the space that hosts our events. Their support gives the group a consistent, accessible location to gather, learn, and connect as a community.
Historical Website Archive
For those who want to explore SDSUG’s visual history, we’ve preserved screenshots of the previous long‑running website as a historical reference. View the SDSUG Website Archive.