Welcome
Dr. Ryan McNeal
Author • Speaker • Mentor
Investing knowledge where it matters most—helping motivated individuals navigate transitions, develop skills, and achieve breakthrough success.
Author • Speaker • Mentor
Investing knowledge where it matters most—helping motivated individuals navigate transitions, develop skills, and achieve breakthrough success.
With over a decade of hands-on experience in cybersecurity and information technology, Ryan brings a mission-driven, people-focused perspective to every engagement. Since entering the field in 2014, he has built a reputation for technical excellence, mentorship, and a passion for empowering others to grow.
A U.S. Air Force veteran, he served on active duty in cybersecurity, deploying twice in support of communication security operations. These experiences shaped his commitment to service, education, and leadership. He later earned his Doctorate in Information Technology from Capella University, further strengthening his expertise in complex systems, organizational resilience, and the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Beyond his professional work, he is deeply invested in mentorship and community impact. He mentors high school seniors as they transition to college and supports college students preparing to enter the workforce. Through his volunteer work with TnAchieves, he has successfully secured grants that expand opportunities for students across Tennessee. His passion for networking, education, and sharing knowledge drives everything he does.
While cybersecurity is his profession, his purpose extends far beyond the technical domain. He has entrepreneurial aspirations, a growing dedication to empowering veterans and service members, and a long-term vision of becoming a motivational speaker, author, and professor. Whether teaching, writing, or speaking at conferences, he aims to inspire others to pursue personal growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
Grounded in service, driven by curiosity, and committed to helping others succeed, Ryan brings authenticity and insight to every stage of his professional and personal journey.
A Lesson in Turning Failures into Success
A book of reflection, sharing the experiences we often hide. Breaking the mold, normalizing sharing failures and difficulties that ultimately lead to growth and future success.
Learn More →A Servicemember's Guide to Preparing For Life Post-Service
As a U.S. Air Force veteran, I've written this guide to ensure our servicemembers have the financial planning tools, transition strategies, and practical resources they need to build successful futures beyond their military service.
Learn More →Transform networking into meaningful mentorship. Learn to identify hungry learners, invest knowledge strategically, and create cycles of support that multiply success across careers and generations.
Addresses the critical need for cybersecurity professionals, leveraging military experience, and providing a roadmap for career success in this vital field.
Exploring the narrative around failure, showing how setbacks become catalysts for breakthrough success and innovation.
View my professional background, experience, and education on LinkedIn
Thoughts on cybersecurity, mentorship, and career growth — follow the conversation on LinkedIn
After months of qualitative research and defending my dissertation, here are the five themes that emerged on how organizations actually integrate security into Agile workflows — and why it's a people problem, not a tools problem.
Mentoring high school seniors through TnAchieves taught me that the biggest impact doesn't come from reaching thousands — it comes from showing one person that someone believes in their potential.
The transition from military service to a civilian cybersecurity career isn't just about translating your MOS. It's about recognizing that the discipline, mission focus, and adaptability you built in uniform are exactly what this industry needs.
Whether you're seeking mentorship, exploring speaking opportunities, or building meaningful professional connections, let's discuss how we can support each other's journey and pay it forward.