Etienne de Bruin
Etienne de Bruin brings more than two decades of global technology leadership and entrepreneurial experience to the PsychArmor Board of Directors. A native of South Africa, Etienne earned his degree in Computer Science from Stellenbosch University before launching his international career in Germany, where he worked on early internet data encryption technologies. He relocated to San Diego in 2000, where he founded and led a technology startup in the nonprofit space, which was successfully acquired in 2015.
Currently, Etienne is the Founder and CEO of 7CTOs, an organization dedicated to developing world-class Chief Technology Officers through peer groups, specialized leadership training, and strategic coaching. He is also the creator of the widely recognized CTO Levels framework, which helps companies align technical leadership with organizational growth.
Etienne’s influence extends beyond coaching and community-building—he is a prolific thought leader and author of the book CTO Excellence in 100 Days, host of The CTO Podcast, and writer of the “CTO Substack.” His commentary on innovation, leadership, and AI continues to shape the future of technology in business. He also serves as CTO of SynkedUP, helping to scale its operations, and co-founded EXE, a coaching practice that supports breakthrough leadership for executive teams.
A naturalized U.S. citizen, Etienne is deeply committed to giving back to the country that has offered him so many opportunities. His passion for PsychArmor stems from a desire to support Veterans and military families, contribute to innovative education systems, and help lead ethical and forward-thinking applications of AI. He has previously collaborated with PsychArmor's leadership and brings a collaborative spirit and a genuine enthusiasm for the organization’s mission.
Etienne also founded the New Technical Fund, a nonprofit that supports inclusive and equitable access to technical education and is eager to contribute his expertise while learning from fellow board members about the operations of high-impact nonprofit organizations.
Etienne’s appointment signals PsychArmor’s commitment to integrating strategic technology and innovation into its mission of serving Veterans, military families, and caregivers through education and community connection.