Romeo Gardner
TOPIC
Ctrl + Alt + Teach: Why Cybersecurity Should Be Mandatory In Schools
In a world where smartphones are ubiquitous, cybersecurity education is no longer a luxury—it’s a critical life skill. Romeo Gardner reveals the alarming truth: we are sending students into the digital realm with virtually no training on how to protect themselves. From phishing scams to oversharing, the lack of cyber literacy is a growing crisis. This talk makes a compelling case for why digital self-defense, encompassing everything from password security to social media risks and cyber threats, should be a mandatory subject in schools. It’s time to build a future where individuals are empowered, not easy prey for digital exploitation.
ABOUT
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.