From Code to Cyber: Mark Christian’s Unique Path in Security

“Why is our industry the way it is?”

That was the question that set Mark Christian on a path from Air Force programmer to cybersecurity advocate, contractor, and entrepreneur. His journey—shaped by logic, adaptability, and an insatiable curiosity—highlights the unexpected turns that can lead to success in cybersecurity.

From Military Programmer to Cybersecurity Expert

Mark’s story begins in the Air Force, where he trained as a computer programmer. His military career not only gave him technical expertise but also a problem-solving mindset. However, the military had other plans. “Six years in, they told us, ‘We’re ending that program and going to contractors. You can switch to security forces or get out.’” Mark took his experience and education and decided to transition out.

His first stop? The financial sector. But what seemed like a logical move proved uninspiring. “Trying to be a programmer in finance was ugly. It wasn’t going to escalate me.” That’s when he met Kayne McGladrey and discovered Centrify, a company focused on authentication security.

The Cybersecurity Pivot: Training, Identity, and Consulting

Mark found his niche in cybersecurity by combining his technical knowledge with a passion for training. At Centrify, he designed programs ensuring customers fully understood and implemented security solutions. “If they don’t use the product correctly, they won’t renew. My job was to make sure they did.”

That principle—ensuring people understand and properly implement security—became a career-defining approach. Through roles in customer success and professional services at companies like SecureAuth and Silverfort, he honed his expertise in authentication, identity management, and enterprise security.

However, corporate loyalty wasn't always reciprocated. Despite saving companies from major breaches, Mark found himself repeatedly undervalued. “I give 110%. But when it’s for a company and not for me, I’m left with nothing.” That realization led him to his next chapter.

Building a Future on His Own Terms

Mark is now leveraging his cybersecurity knowledge in a way that aligns with his strengths, passions, and neurodivergence. He’s consulting, building his personal brand under Living Divergent, and exploring creative outlets like woodworking (Mythic Masterpieces) and home inspections (Inspector Call Dad).

But it’s not just about business. His long-term goal is to create a safe haven for neurodivergent individuals, a space where people can find support and purpose. “I want to build a place where no one feels alone, where people help each other, and where coming back isn’t failure—it’s community.”

Lessons from Mark’s Journey

1. Your skills are transferable. Military, finance, IT, cybersecurity—Mark’s success shows that knowledge and adaptability matter more than industry silos.

2. Advocate for yourself. Whether it’s demanding fair pay or creating opportunities that align with your strengths, knowing your worth is key.

3. Cybersecurity isn’t just about tools—it’s about people. Whether training customers, securing identities, or educating others, human understanding is just as critical as technical knowledge.

4. Your career path doesn’t have to be traditional. Mark's multifaceted approach, which includes contracting, content creation, and community building, serves as a reminder that success is not universally applicable.

As cybersecurity evolves, people like Mark remind us that innovation happens at the intersections—between disciplines, between logic and creativity, and between technical skill and human empathy.

If you're seeking inspiration for your cybersecurity journey, learn from Mark's approach: identify what inspires you and build upon it.

Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more episodes of The Other Side of the Firewall podcast on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, as well as the Ask A CISSP podcast every Thursday. Please like, share, and subscribe.

Stay safe, stay secure!

Ryan is a retired Air Force veteran who brings over 20 years of experience in network infrastructure, project management, and cybersecurity consulting to his current role as CEO of RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC. RAM Cyber is a premier governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) consultancy dedicated to supporting the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), federal agencies, and corporate entities. We specialize in delivering expert guidance to ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance cybersecurity postures.

Shannon, also a retired Air Force veteran, has more than two decades of expertise in network security and vulnerability management. He now serves as an Information System Security Officer (ISSO), where he continues to enhance national security protocols.

Chris is a Navy veteran with over 13 years in IT, information assurance, and risk management. His current role as a Senior Security Consultant focuses on vCISO and Cyber Assessments services enhancing data security and privacy for various organizations.

Daniel is an Air Force veteran with over 15 years of combined experience in IT, cybersecurity, information assurance, and government risk compliance. He has held various roles, including IT administrator, cybersecurity engineer, and senior information system security manager, and currently serves as a senior security consultant. In this latest role, Daniel leverages his expertise to address unique and complex challenges in the cyber and IT domains, enhancing his customers’ capabilities.

**The Other Side of the Firewall podcast is a product of RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC. RAM Cyber Consulting & Assessments, LLC is a premier governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) consultancy dedicated to supporting the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), federal agencies, and corporate entities. We specialize in delivering expert guidance to ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance cybersecurity postures. RAM Cyber is pending SDVOSB, VOSB, and 8(a) certification by the SBA, underscoring our commitment to excellence and service.