Bsides San Diego 2026

Attended BSides San Diego 2026. It was great seeing familiar faces from the Cybersecurity Summit and members of the SDSU Cyber Defense Team. One of the things I enjoy most about these events is seeing people show up, participate, and contribute. There is a strong sense of community that continues to draw me back.

I attended talks, learned some new soldering techniques, and participated in a CTF. I didn’t capture a flag this time, but I learned something just as valuable: endurance. Learning to sit with a problem, stay comfortable with uncertainty, and keep working through it is a skill in itself.

Looking back, I can see a slow transition taking place. Less spectator, more participant. Less of an outsider looking in, and more of someone becoming part of the community.

The opening talks left a strong impression on me. They reframed the purpose behind what we do. Cybersecurity is not just about technology, exploits, or certifications. At its core, it is about protecting the people we care about, the organizations we serve, and the communities we belong to.

I think that perspective is important. The things we pursue over the long term are often sustained by something deeper than curiosity alone. They are fueled by things worth protecting and things worth living for.

-Ron1n01