A Vision Forged in Experience and
Purpose
Ben Crenshaw’s Journey to Cultivate Enlightened Digital Stewardship.
From Corporate Cybersecurity to National Education
Introduction to Ben’s dual calling – profound fascination with technology and deep commitment to empowering others, leading from corporate cybersecurity (Oracle) to education (CTEC) and a national platform (Work ED).
Explain the “Cyber Sensei” moniker as a deeply integrated personal and professional identity, fusing Eastern philosophical underpinnings (Buddhist lay minister, Zen, Japanese culture) with Western technical acumen.
Discuss the “Zen-infused cyber pedagogy” and its aim to produce “ethically grounded, capable of making calm, reasoned decisions under pressure,” viewing ethical reasoning as a crucial differentiator.
Bridging the Chasm: Learn Once, Apply Many Times
Detail the singular purpose: bridging the often formidable chasm between academic instruction and the practical, real-world exigencies of the cybersecurity and AI industries, observed at Oracle and CTEC.
Elaborate on the mantra “Learn once, apply many times” as an “epistemological conviction” that values transferable knowledge and adaptability, fostering “transformative understanding” and enabling clients to think and learn, not just do.
Scaling Enlightenment: National Impact and Advocacy
Detail current role at Work ED (Head of Cyber & AI Education) – ensuring curriculum relevance, advocating for student success pathways, and fostering industry partnerships. Highlight “Teacher Cybersecurity Externships” as a “strategic force multiplier”.
Mention authorship (“Teaching Cyber” via Chapterhouse Press LLC), mentorship (U.S. Cyber Games Mentor), and advocacy (TraceLabs Coach for social good, NICE Cybersecurity Ambassador, CLEAR AI Initiative, WiCyS, CSTA).
