In this interview, we explore Harley’s experience at DEFCON, the world’s largest hacker convention, where he took his skills to new heights. His story goes beyond technical expertise; it’s about perseverance, community building, and a quest for knowledge.
The Journey Begins
Harley’s fascination with cybersecurity began at 14 when a phishing attempt in an online game sparked his curiosity. This early experience ignited a passion that would shape his career path. He began teaching himself about phishing websites and hacking tools despite being a self-described “script kiddie” at the time.
“I was immediately intrigued. I knew the site was not real because there were clear signs, but I couldn’t believe someone could clone a website. It felt like discovering a superpower.”
Harley’s determination to learn more led him to enroll in cybersecurity courses at a local community college. While there, a chance encounter with a YouTube video of Dave Kennedy at DEFCON solidified his desire to be part of the cybersecurity community.
“Watching him type so fast during live demonstrations made me realize how much I had to learn, but it also made me want to be there, at DEFCON, among people who shared my passion.”
Getting to DEFCON
Harley’s journey from imposter syndrome to validation began with small steps, including starting the first cybersecurity club at his college and working on various information technology (IT) projects focusing on security. Despite financial constraints, Harley was determined to attend DEFCON in 2019.
“I just scraped up money, asked a friend if I could crash with them, and made it happen. It wasn’t easy, but once I got there, it solidified that this is what I want to do.”
This newfound motivation led Harley to pursue various security certifications, launch a YouTube channel to share his knowledge, and eventually transition into a full-time cybersecurity role.
“When I went to DEFCON and saw thousands of people like me, it was like, ‘Sweet, I’m not alone.’ It gave me a sense of belonging and inspired me to pursue my goals more fiercely.”
Key Takeaways from DEFCON
Harley’s dedication to continuous learning and community involvement paid off when he landed a job that sponsored his second DEFCON trip.
“Convincing my company to sponsor my trip was a big deal. Returning to DEFCON, I realized it’s not just about the talks; it’s about the people you meet and the connections you make.”
In 2024, Harley took his involvement with DEFCON to the next level by organizing the inaugural Bug Bounty Village. This initiative reflects his commitment to innovation and fostering community, which are integral to HackerOne’s culture.
“The idea came from my deep involvement in the security community and discussions with colleagues who shared my passion for DEFCON. Bringing the Bug Bounty Village to life was a way to give back to the community and create a space where others could learn and grow, just as I have.”
Harley’s journey from a curious teenager to a leader in cybersecurity shows the impact of staying true to oneself and achieving dreams through hard work and determination. His story inspires anyone looking to make their mark in the field. Harley says, “It’s about pushing yourself, taking risks, and never losing sight of your passion.” At HackerOne, we’re proud to support individuals like Harley, who embody our core values and strive to make the digital world a safer place.