Interview With François Guay - Founder of the Canadian Cybersecurity Network

SafetyDetectives recently interviewed François Guay, founder of the Canadian Cybersecurity Network (CCN), to learn more about his mission to unify and strengthen Canada’s cybersecurity ecosystem. With more than 45,000 members spanning business, education, and government, CCN has become the country’s largest independent cybersecurity community. In this conversation, Guay shares what drove him to launch CCN, the urgent challenges facing Canada’s digital defenses, and how CCN is helping organizations of all sizes build a stronger, more resilient cyber future. 

Can you share your journey into cybersecurity and what led you to establish the Canadian Cybersecurity Network?

After years in the tech industry I had the opportunity to do a contract at a very well-known cybersecurity company and it became clear that Canada lacked a unified, independent platform to connect cybersecurity professionals, students, businesses, and educators. CCN was born to fill that gap bringing the community together to build talent, share knowledge, and strengthen the national ecosystem.

What is the core mission of CCN, and how does it serve Canada’s cybersecurity community—from students to seasoned professionals?

CCN exists to grow cybersecurity talent, support businesses, and raise awareness. We do this through mentorships, job connections, training access, events, and national reports serving everyone from students seeking their first role to CISOs shaping strategy.

Canada has seen a rise in cyber threats across both public and private sectors. In your view, what are the most pressing challenges the country currently faces?

Canada’s biggest challenge is fragmented leadership. While threats rise, we still lack a national cybersecurity strategy with clear accountability. Small businesses are especially vulnerable due to limited resources and inconsistent access to affordable protection.

One of CCN’s goals is to bridge knowledge gaps in the industry. What strategies have proven most effective for professional development and information sharing?

Hands-on learning, real-world mentoring, and open collaboration. We’ve seen success with spotlight sessions, community-driven webinars, our job platform, and content that demystifies complex topics in practical terms for all levels.

How is the Canadian cybersecurity landscape evolving in response to emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing, and zero-trust frameworks?

The adoption is uneven. Larger enterprises are moving toward zero-trust and AI-driven defense, while smaller players struggle to keep up. Canada has world-class talent, but we must invest faster in upskilling and innovation to remain competitive.

What advice would you offer to organizations—particularly small and mid-sized businesses—that struggle to find or afford the right cybersecurity talent?

Leverage communities like CCN. Tap into student co-op programs, fractional experts, and free job platforms. Focus on building a security-minded culture, not just hiring experts. Cybersecurity isn’t a luxury; it’s a business enabler.

François Guay is the founder of the Canadian Cybersecurity Network (CCN), Canada’s largest cybersecurity community, uniting over 45,000 members across business, education, and government. A recognized thought leader, he has launched national initiatives like Canadian Cybersecurity Jobs and CyberVoices, State of Cybersecurity and other leading national reports that are shaping how Canada builds, connects, and grows its cyber talent and resilience.