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Ctrl + Alt + Teach: Why Cybersecurity Should Be Mandatory In Schools | Romeo Gardner

Romeo Gardner is a cybersecurity expert who is passionate about ensuring the next generation is prepared to address the cybersecurity threats of the future. 

Relentlessly Curious. Empathetic.

Join us at TEDxLogan Circle 2025 to hear Romeo Gardner's inspiring message and be part of the movement towards a more inclusive future.
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Could you give us a sneak preview of your 2025 TEDxLogan Circle talk?

In my talk, Ctrl + Alt + Teach: Why Cybersecurity Should Be a Mandatory Subject in Schools, I make the case that we’re failing the next generation by not preparing them for the digital threats they face every day. Teaching cybersecurity is no longer optional, it’s a life skill every student deserves to learn.

How do you define courage?

For a while, I thought courage was about big moves, and taking risks. To some degree this still holds true, however the older I get, the more I see courage in the quiet stuff. Speaking up when it’s uncomfortable. Starting from scratch when nobody’s watching and when everyone is watching (because people are watching). Admitting you don’t have it all figured out. I’ve realized one of the hardest parts is the middle. You’re not new anymore, but you’re not “there” yet either. It’s messy, unclear, and full of doubt. That’s where the real courage kicks in, choosing to keep going when the hype fades, the vision gets blurry, and progress feels slow, like almost nonexistent. That’s where most people quit, but it’s also where growth and courage lives.

What is one element of developing your talk that has been the biggest challenge?

Making sure I land the talk for a balance of impact and humor.

What is your “Why" in life?

My “why” in life is to serve and improve others lives in the digital landscape. I can't help everyone, but I can help someone. My mantra is to be a conduit over a container.

What is your favorite way to rest and unwind?

My favorite way to unwind is either listening to music or going to the gym for a great workout session followed by mediation and prayer. One practice that I use every day to unwind and relax is to be grateful and let that feeling wash over me. It's relaxing.

What experiences helped you hone your voice of courage?

Leaving Microsoft to start my own business when everyone told me not to, only to have my very first contract fall through. I felt like they were right. I was embarrassed. Heck my own mother said "I'm not sure if this a good idea", however I stuck to one north star, this is just a point in time, a (pit) if you will. I don't know how long this point in time will last, but I have to go through it to grow through it, understanding it was about who I was becoming versus what I was doing.
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Romeo Gardner

Romeo Gardner III is the President and CEO of Nehlos, a cybersecurity firm focused on enabling government agencies and contractors to achieve RMF and CMMC compliance. His foundational experience in national security began at the White House Communication Agency (WHCA), providing critical secure communication support to Presidents Bush and Obama. Transitioning to Microsoft, he made a substantial impact as an Engineer, Program Manager, and Learning and Education Manager, driving advancements in security and talent development. Gardner's leadership at Nehlos is fueled by a mission to equip the defense industrial base with the necessary expertise to navigate evolving cyber threats. Additionally, he serves as an Instructor at the University of Mary Washington, passionately contributing to cybersecurity education and workforce upskilling.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Join us at TEDxLogan Circle 2025 to be part of the movement towards a more inclusive future.
GET YOUR TICKETS