Chief technology evangelist from global leader in IT training and certifications serves as mentor to Hackathon participants
JOHANNESBURG – Participants in the upcoming ITWeb Security Summit 2026 Hackathon are getting an assist from the chief technology evangelist at CompTIA, the leading global provider of vendor-neutral information technology (IT) training and certifications.
Dr. James Stanger is advising and mentoring Hackathon teams who will take part in the ITWeb Security Summit Hackathon 2-3 June in Johannesburg.
“The Hackathon is a proving ground where aspiring cybersecurity and business professionals test their mettle,” Dr. Stanger said. “They are presented with real-world cyber threat scenarios and business problems and must use their individual talents and teamwork skills to create a compelling solution. The results are often amazing.”
This year’s Hackathon challenge calls on teams to unleash the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to fortify cyber resilience. They must do so by designing intelligent, adaptive solutions that can predict, detect and neutralise cyber threats in real time.
“Rapid advancement of AI-driven cybersecurity threats makes it incumbent on cybersecurity pros to have the ability to simultaneously defend against AI threats and leverage AI technologies to fortify cybersecurity environments,” Dr. Stanger explained. “The hackathon challenges them to create real-world cyber defence strategies in an environment where AI systems and AI-enabled tools are present.”
Now in its 10th year, the hackathon addresses the critical need to narrow the cybersecurity skills gap. It is a launchpad for young developers, “techpreneurs” and security enthusiasts who will soon be at the forefront of cyber defence strategies and practices.
On Wednesday, June 03, Dr. Stanger will also be participating in a roundtable session at the ITWeb Security Summit concerning cybersecurity upskilling initiatives in South Africa, and how to make training programs more accessible and affordable.
CompTIA is a Bronze Sponsor of the ITWeb Security Summit 2026, a top annual conference for the global cybersecurity community. Now in its 21st year, the summit features in-depth technical tracks, high-level CISO forums, live demonstrations and hands-on workshops.
About CompTIA
CompTIA, Inc. is the leading global provider of vendor-neutral training and certification products in the information technology (IT) space. Over four million CompTIA certifications have been awarded to current and aspiring technology workers, business professionals, government and military personnel, career changers, students and others. Working in partnership with thousands of academic institutions, governments, training providers and workforce development organizations, CompTIA uses best-in-class learning solutions, industry-recognized certifications and career resources to help job seekers reach their full potential and employers develop skilled technical talent. Learn more at https://www.comptia.org/.