Metro State University hosted an exclusive discussion with Ronald Gula, President of Gula Tech Adventures and co-founder/former CEO of Tenable (the company behind Nessus). The session had a good turnout of both undergraduate and graduate students who asked insightful questions about the future of cybersecurity and how to navigate careers in the field.
Gula shared invaluable advice on how students can stand out, emphasizing the need to gain hands-on experience with essential cybersecurity tools such as vulnerability management systems, endpoint detection, and cloud security solutions. He also stressed the importance of building skills in problem-solving, communication, and maintaining a mindset of continuous learning.
One standout topic was a discussion around the essential mindset shift required for success in both cybersecurity and entrepreneurship—focusing on resilience, curiosity, and adaptability.
Students were eager to hear Gula’s thoughts on attracting investors, and he advised focusing on innovation, clear problem-solving, and strong execution. He also spoke optimistically about the future of U.S. national security, underscoring how professionals and entrepreneurs can contribute to safeguarding the nation’s infrastructure.
A highlight of the session was Gula’s insight into the qualities he looks for in cybersecurity startups. He mentioned Minnesota-based Anno.ai as an example of a promising venture with potential for significant returns, reflecting his commitment to mentoring and investing in the next generation of innovators.