Building Community and Making Cybersecurity Accessible

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I recently sat down with my long-time friend and cybersecurity expert, Michael Farnum, to discuss his journey in the industry, his role as an advisory CISO at Trace3, and the evolution of the Houston Security Conference—more commonly referred to as HOU.SEC.CON.

Farnum has a deep-rooted passion for cybersecurity and his commitment to community-building shines through as he shares the story behind the creation of HOU.SEC.CON—a regional event that has grown into something much larger.

We delve into how HOU.SEC.CON started as a local cybersecurity conference but quickly gained traction with a unique twist: a strong community focus and a deep commitment to providing valuable, non-vendor-centric content. As the conference expanded, so did its scope, with specialized tracks like OT.SEC.CON EXEC.SEC.CON, and recently YOUTH.SEC.CON catering to niche segments like operational technology, executive-level discussions, and providing guidance and education for students.

One of the standout themes in our conversation is how HOU.SEC.CON has managed to create an environment that’s distinct from the larger industry conferences like RSAC and Black Hat. Farnum reflected on the importance of keeping the event accessible and affordable, with tickets priced around $100 to ensure broad participation. It’s all about fostering a community of cybersecurity practitioners, not just showcasing the latest vendor offerings.

In addition to talking about the event itself, we explore broader trends in cybersecurity, including the potential for AI to disrupt the job market. Farnum offers a candid perspective on how generative AI could affect entry-level cybersecurity roles and the skills required for the next generation of security professionals. While the conversation touches on some of the challenges ahead, it’s clear that Farnum is excited about the future of cybersecurity and the opportunities to pivot into new areas within the field.

Whether you’re a seasoned cybersecurity professional or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights into the changing landscape of the industry and the importance of community-driven events like HOU.SEC.CON. Tune in to hear more about Farnum’s experiences and his vision for the future of cybersecurity conferences. You’ll also hear about some exciting updates for HOU.SEC.CON in 2025, so check it out.

Also, make sure you take a look at the upcoming events and register to attend:

• OT.SEC.CON – April 17
• EXEC.SEC.CON – April 22
• YOUTH.SEC.CON – September 30
• HOU.SEC.CON – September 30 – October 1