Leesville, Louisiana, Feb. 10, 2026 – Renowned cybersecurity thought leader Jim West, Founder and CEO of TopCyberPro.com, and globally recognized expert in cyber governance, cryptography, and emerging technologies, spoke with after-school robotics club students at Vernon Middle School as part of the company’s community outreach program.
The hour-long talk focused on emerging technologies, AI, quantum computing, and what the future holds for careers in Cybersecurity. Surprise guest Katanya B. Kuntz, PhD, Quantum Physicist, also spoke to the students about her role as a researcher and scientist, her experiments in quantum physics, her work with the Canadian Space Agency, the QEYSat Project, and what she sees coming for the future of quantum computing.
During the session, students had the opportunity to ask questions, learn about future programming needs, and explore possible applications of big data.
“My goal is to always use real-world examples and effective training to help every student who participates gain a deeper understanding of not just what cybersecurity is, but the opportunities that are readily available and within their reach,” said West. “We cannot hope to accomplish our mission of ‘Closing the Cybersecurity Skills Gap’ by pursuing the same traditional routes that continue to create a workforce shortage.”
With more than 30 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity, West brings unmatched depth and expertise, with a background spanning government, military, space, and commercial cybersecurity programs. He holds elite credentials, including CISSP-ISSEP, ISSMP, ISSAP, GCIH, GPEN, GSLC, PMP, C-CISO, and S-CISO, and is widely recognized for translating complex topics like cryptography and risk management into actionable guidance for professionals across all domains.
Beyond his role as a speaker, West is a globally sought-after mentor and educator, having helped more than 150,000 individuals pass cybersecurity certification exams through his platform, TopCyberPro.com. His eBook, Cybersecurity and Test Tips, is ranked among the Top 100 Cybersecurity Books by BookAuthority.org.
About Jim West
Jim West is an award-winning cybersecurity professional, educator, and CEO of TopCyberPro.com. With more than three decades of experience, he is a global thought leader on secure architecture, cryptography, and quantum risk. He has presented at leading forums, including Hacker Halted, CSfC Tech Day, Global CISO Forum, and ISACA conferences worldwide.
About TopCyberPro.com
Founded in 2020 by cybersecurity expert and author Jim West, TopCyberPro.com, based in Houston, Texas, was created to affordably train, coach, and mentor promising individuals seeking to change their career trajectory and help close the global cybersecurity skills gap. Many students from TopCyberPro.com have shared success stories of entering the cybersecurity field for the first time or advancing their existing careers.
Our Mission
At TopCyberPro.com, our mission is to bridge the cybersecurity skills gap and build a more secure digital world. We are committed to empowering individuals and organizations with the knowledge and expertise needed to defend against ever-evolving cyber threats. Through innovative training, coaching, and mentorship, we strive to cultivate a community of top-tier cybersecurity professionals who are well-equipped to protect data, networks, and systems.
For more information, visit: https://www.TopCyberPro.com.
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