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About Michael Cyger

Michael Cyger is a recognized authority in the domain name industry, known for over two decades of leadership, innovation, and education. He has shaped the digital asset landscape through in-depth media, structured training, software development, and direct contributions to the community.

Education

  • BS in Nuclear Engineering from UC Santa Barbara
  • MS in Nuclear Engineering (with an emphasis in environmental engineering) from UC Berkeley

Corporate Leadership

Before launching his entrepreneurial career, Michael held key roles at GE Power Systems, GE Capital, and Citigroup.

There, he specialized in industrial operations, Six Sigma process improvement, and global web strategy, working alongside senior executives and managing large-scale business initiatives.

Entrepreneurial Journey: iSixSigma

Identifying a need for operational excellence resources, Michael founded iSixSigma, transforming it into a media conglomerate spanning online content, print magazine, job board, recruiting, e-commerce, and live events.

iSixSigma served hundreds of thousands of people worldwide and was acquired twice, with Michael retained as a consultant to ensure successful transitions and the launch of new conferences.

Domain Industry Impact

After exiting iSixSigma and semi-retiring, Michael turned his attention to domain names.

He founded DomainSherpa, an acclaimed interview and educational series, and Domain Academy (formerly DNAcademy), an online educational platform and software provider.

These ventures demystified the domain industry, providing essential knowledge to investors, entrepreneurs, and organizations.

Both projects were successfully sold ‒ DomainSherpa to Media Options, and Domain Academy to GoDaddy, where Michael served as Director of Education for the domain division.

His deep industry expertise led to world-class instructional programs adopted by major corporations, and he unified the community through events like the weekly Domain Industry Quarantine Social during the 2020 worldwide pandemic) on Zoom.

Selected Awards & Recognition

  • 2021 Lonnie Borck Memorial Award presented by the Internet Commerce Association for exceptional contribution to domain industry community
  • 2016 The Domain Conference Developer of the Year
  • 2016 The Domain Conference Blogger of the Year, Nominee
  • 2016 The Domain Conference Goodwill Ambassador of the Year, Nominee
  • 2015 The Domain Conference Blogger of the Year
  • 2015 The Domain Conference Goodwill Ambassador of the Year
  • 2014 Hall of Fame Inductee
  • 2014 T.R.A.F.F.I.C. Best Domain Blog, Winner
  • 2014 Domainer’s Choice Awards Most Helpful Resource for Domain Industry Newcomers, Winner
  • 2013 T.R.A.F.F.I.C. Developer of the Year
  • 2013 T.R.A.F.F.I.C. Best Domain Blog, Nominee
  • 2012 T.R.A.F.F.I.C. Best Domain Blog, Winner

Ongoing Commitment

A seasoned domain investor, Michael champions domain security and education. He believes domains should be protected like financial assets and continues to contribute through consulting, mentoring, and thought leadership, helping others make smarter investments in the digital age.

Selected Podcast Appearances