DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Chester County Intermediate Unit cybersecurity engineer Joe Stillions was named the 2026 Tech Ed Pro of the Year at the Tech Talk Live Conference, recognition that comes as K-12 school systems face growing cybersecurity threats and increasing pressure to strengthen network security infrastructure.
Stillions received the award during the conference on May 5. Organizers cited his leadership in education cybersecurity, technical expertise, and work supporting cybersecurity standards and training across the education sector.
The award recognizes achievement and innovation in education technology.
Stillions also led a conference session focused on Zero Trust cybersecurity architecture in K-12 environments, outlining how one school district moved from a traditional open network structure to a segmented system designed to limit unauthorized access and reduce security vulnerabilities.
The presentation addressed implementation of identity-based access controls for students, staff, and connected devices, along with broader cybersecurity practices for schools managing increasingly connected classroom environments.
Bryan Ruzenski, director of strategic partnerships and services in the CCIU Technology Services division, described Stillions’ recognition as reflective of his impact within the organization and education technology field.
“We are proud to have Joe as part of the CCIU team and commend his continued impact on the field,” Ruzenski said.
Tech Talk Live is an annual conference focused on operational and technology challenges facing K-12 information technology professionals.
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