Welcome,

I’m Jacob Smith — a cybersecurity professional with three years of experience in network security and a passion for building secure, inclusive digital spaces. I've worked in IT for eight years, using my unique background to bridge skill gaps and improve communication across teams.

    My academic foundation is in linguistics: I double-majored in General Linguistics and Japanese as an undergrad, then earned my master’s in Applied Linguistics for TESOL. Language analysis and communication are at the core of how I think, solve problems, and design training. I enjoy learning, sharing knowledge, and refining materials using my background in pedagogy and assessment.

     Outside of work, I’m a curious and passionate learner who enjoys everything from TTRPGs and skateboarding to literature, anime, and personal homelab projects — some of which you’ll find featured on this site.

    Growing up in poverty with little guidance, I carved my own path into IT — and now, I’m driven to help others do the same. One of my biggest goals is to help skilled individuals — especially those facing economic hardship or language barriers — overcome obstacles and find their place in the IT and cybersecurity fields. 

    My experiences give me a unique lens, but my skillset fits seamlessly into any team. I learn quickly, bring curiosity and drive, and love helping others shine. 

Thanks for visiting — if you’re interested in connecting or collaborating, you’ll find my LinkedIn link below. Let’s build something better together.