Cybersecurity has evolved tremendously over the past few decades, but one thing remains constant, the need for education, awareness, and leadership. My journey in this field began over 25 years ago when I graduated with a Management Information Systems (MIS) degree. Like many, I wasn’t entirely sure which direction to take, but through hands-on experience on Lockheed Martin’s Information Assurance team, I found my passion.
Today, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a CISO at multiple organizations and founding my own firm that provides advisory and MSSP services to small businesses. Beyond that, I’ve committed myself to educating future generations on online safety through the non-profit I founded, Savvy Cyber Kids. In this article, I want to share how cybersecurity professionals can gain thought leadership and contribute meaningfully to the industry.
The Evolution of Cybersecurity & The Role of Thought Leaders
Back when I started, the term "cybersecurity" wasn’t even widely used, we called it information assurance. Over time, the threats have grown exponentially, and with them, so has the demand for expertise. As practitioners, our responsibility goes beyond securing corporate assets; we need to raise awareness, educate stakeholders, and inspire the next generation.
Thought leadership in cybersecurity isn’t just about publishing articles or speaking at conferences, it’s about providing real value. This means:
- Understanding Emerging Threats: Staying ahead of trends and threats allows you to offer relevant insights.
- Educating the Public: Most people don’t fully grasp the risks they expose themselves to daily. A true leader makes complex topics accessible.
- Mentoring & Volunteering: Sharing knowledge with younger professionals and students ensures a more secure future.
Giving Back: Why I Founded Savvy Cyber Kids
In 2002, while working on federal security projects post-9/11, I realized that most people outside of the industry had little awareness of cybersecurity risks. Doctors, lawyers, marketers, accountants, none of my friends and associates at the time understood the threats lurking online, particularly for children. This inspired me to start creating educational content aimed at parents and kids in 2002. By 2007, I had officially launched Savvy Cyber Kids, a nonprofit dedicated to helping children stay safe online.
Through school visits, volunteer programs, children’s books, and lesson plans, we’ve been able to equip kids as young as three years old with the knowledge to protect themselves. One of our core programs involves cybersecurity professionals reading Savvy Cyber Kids at Home books in schools, introducing children to basic online safety principles in a fun and engaging way.
How Cybersecurity Professionals Can Get Involved
Many CISOs I speak with express a desire to give back but aren’t sure where to start. The good news is that there are simple, impactful ways to contribute:
- Volunteer with Savvy Cyber Kids: We offer structured programs that allow professionals to educate children in their local communities. Volunteers can read books to young students and lead interactive discussions.
- Advocate for Cyber Education: Encourage your company to support cybersecurity education initiatives. Many corporations now sponsor programs that promote online safety.
- Mentor Young Professionals: Whether through formal programs or one-on-one guidance, sharing your expertise with newcomers strengthens the industry as a whole.
- Share Knowledge Publicly: Write articles, participate in webinars, or speak at events to help demystify cybersecurity topics for non-technical audiences.
Corporate Sponsorships & Community Engagement
Another way companies can support cybersecurity education is through corporate sponsorships. At Savvy Cyber Kids, we partner with organizations that believe in our mission and want to make a tangible difference. Sponsors enable us to develop new resources, expand our outreach, and provide books to schools at no cost.
For businesses, this isn’t just a philanthropic opportunity—it’s also a powerful way to demonstrate corporate social responsibility. Supporting cybersecurity education enhances a company’s brand reputation and shows a commitment to a safer digital world.
The Power of Collective Action
As cybersecurity professionals, we have the knowledge and tools to make a lasting impact. Whether through education, mentorship, or corporate involvement, we can change the trajectory of cybersecurity awareness for future generations.
My hope is that more professionals will step up, volunteer, and embrace thought leadership, not just within their organizations, but in their communities as well. Together, we can build a more cyber-savvy society and ensure that our children grow up with the skills they need to navigate the digital world safely.
For those interested in volunteering or learning more about corporate sponsorships, visit savvycyberkids.org and take the first step in making a difference.
