Co-Founders of Cyber Dive
Jeff Gottfurcht and Derek Jackson are the Co-Founders of Cyber Dive, a technology company revolutionizing how families and recovery programs experience the digital world—turning smartphones from a source of disconnection into a force for awareness, growth, and human connection.
As COO, Derek Jackson drives precision and purpose across Cyber Dive’s operations, ensuring that its Aqua smartphones deliver meaningful insight into digital behavior. A former U.S. Army Captain and military intelligence officer, Derek’s service across Kuwait, Jordan, and Syria shaped his understanding of how technology can both empower and endanger. His academic journey—spanning a B.S. in Criminology (ASU), MBA (Liberty University), and Ph.D. pursuit in Human Systems Engineering (ASU)—reflects his multidisciplinary expertise. Recognized in the Phoenix Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, Derek fuses behavioral science, data, and design to advance Cyber Dive’s vision of safer, more connected communities.
As CEO, Jeff Gottfurcht leads Cyber Dive with a mission to empower parents and recovery centers to understand and support those they care for in today’s hyper-connected world. A former Wall Street Senior Vice President with 14 years of experience, Jeff brings strategic acumen, resilience, and a passion for impact to his role. His historic ascent as the first person with Rheumatoid Arthritis to summit Mount Everest exemplifies his grit and refusal to accept limits, qualities that define his leadership. Named Man of the Year by the United Nations and their International School, Jeff earned his degree in Economics from the University of San Francisco.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dqjackso/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreygottfurcht/