Her Story
About Kristi
I’ve always been passionate about technology, growing up in the 90s when computers and the internet were really beginning to transform the world around us. That passion led me to earn a degree in information systems before eventually making a career switch into education about 12–13 years ago. When Virginia began leading the way with a dedicated cybersecurity pathway, I was asked to teach cybersecurity, and what started as an opportunity quickly became a true passion and purpose. I realized how critical cybersecurity education is not only for Virginia, but for our nation’s future workforce and security.
In the classroom, I focus heavily on gamification, cyber competitions, and real-world, hands-on learning experiences rather than relying solely on traditional teaching methods. I want students actively solving problems, thinking critically, and experiencing cybersecurity in authentic ways that prepare them for the real world. What began as building a cybersecurity program at my school evolved into coaching student cyber competition teams, creating statewide opportunities for students, mentoring educators, and now serving as the Head Coach for the U.S. Women’s Cyber Team, an opportunity that is both humbling and incredibly meaningful to me.
I’m also passionate about supporting other educators because I remember what it was like when I first started teaching cybersecurity and there were very few resources or support systems available. I never want another educator to feel like they are building a program alone. Coming from a military family background, I’ve always had a strong drive to stay busy, lead with purpose, and continue growing. I’ve learned to focus on one challenge at a time, build it well, and then use that momentum to take on the next opportunity to make an impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kristi
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would say my success is from my mom. My mom was an amazing person who, no matter what, sacrificed a lot when I was a kid to get me out there doing things. She was the one that always told me, don't stop chasing your dreams. Her name is Diana, and she's been that support system that cheered me on along the way, even when I couldn't see how I was going to get to the solution or the goal.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mom, Diana, who always told me, “Never stop chasing your dreams.” No matter what obstacles came my way, she reminded me to keep moving forward and continue pursuing the things that inspired me. That advice has stayed with me throughout every stage of my career.
If I could give advice to my younger self, it would be the very same thing: keep chasing your goals and keep chasing your dreams. Over time, you’ll achieve some of those goals, but you’ll also realize that your dreams evolve and grow as you do. What once seemed impossible can become reality, and new opportunities you never imagined will begin to take shape. The key is to never stop believing in what’s possible for yourself.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to anyone entering cybersecurity education is to remember that you are not alone. Even if you are the only cybersecurity teacher in your school or division, there is an incredible community of educators, mentors, and industry professionals who are willing to support you, guide you, and help you every step of the way.
When I first started teaching cybersecurity, there were very few resources available, and I often felt like I was building everything on my own. I was that “silo” educator trying to figure it all out as I went. Today, the landscape is so different. There are strong support networks, communities, and collaborative opportunities designed to help educators succeed and grow their programs.
Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and connect with others in the field. Cybersecurity education is built on collaboration, and some of the most impactful opportunities come from the relationships and community you build along the way.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I’m incredibly passionate about cybersecurity because it is truly a national priority. At the heart of everything I do is the belief that we can help create a safer online world for future generations. If I can impact even one or two people by helping them become more aware, more cautious, and more informed about how they navigate the digital world, then I know I’m making a difference. That is my “why”: building a safer online community for our children, our families, and our seniors.
Outside of my professional life, family time is what helps me recharge and stay grounded. I’m a very active person and love fitness, working out, being outdoors, and sports. Whether it’s spending time on the lake, enjoying quiet moments with my husband, or making memories with my two boys, who are adults now, those moments are what fill my cup back up and remind me why balance and connection matter so much.
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