Men To Watch 2025 honoree Dr. Ian Wilkinson

Dr. Ian Wilkinson is a dynamic leader and visionary in the fields of information technology and cybersecurity. Hailing from Claymont, Delaware and raised by a Jamaican single mother, Ian's journey began with his enlistment in the U.S. Army in 1997. During his distinguished military career, he undertook pivotal roles in key operations such as the Joint

Task Force Counter Drug Trafficking Operations along the U.S.-Mexico border and conflict deterrence during Operation Desert Spring in Kuwait. His service took him not only across the United States but also to numerous countries throughout the Middle East and the Pacific. Promoted to Signal Warrant Officer in 2006, he expertly managed extensive network, cybersecurity, and other IT operations around the world. Ian's deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom further demonstrate his strategic impact during his nearly 3 decades of dedicated military service.

As the founder and CEO of Cyber Ballet LLC, Ian has established a thriving business renowned for its flexible and innovative IT solutions. Under his leadership, the company has successfully delivered multiple multi-million-dollar projects, fostering transformative changes for various clients, including local and state governments as well as small and medium-sized businesses. By blending traditional corporate models with independent contracting and strategic industry partnerships, Cyber Ballet LLC has set new standards in IT training and consultancy. The company boasts a rapidly expanding clientele and has launched several groundbreaking platforms that have advanced clients' capabilities in competitive and highly regulated environments. The company is now exploring strategic partnerships with non-profit organizations to provide IT training opportunities to underserved communities, exemplifying its commitment to social impact and accessibility.

Dr. Wilkinson's academic credentials are equally impressive, including a bachelor’s degree in computer studies from the University of Maryland Global Campus, a Master's in IT Management from Webster University, and a Doctorate in Information Technology from Walden University. His professional influence extends to corporate governance, education, and mentorship; he led as the Director of Corporate Outreach for the Project Management Institute and is honored as a fellow at both the Harvard Kennedy School and the Wharton School of Business.

Beyond his professional and academic endeavors, Ian enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, immersing himself in singing and songwriting, and engaging in various sports. His extracurricular interests offer a refreshing balance to his multifaceted career. Ian's dedication to leadership and service includes mentoring through the National Society of Leadership and Success and contributing his expertise to the peer-review panel for the Cybersecurity Skills Journal. As an active member of Iota Phi Theta Incorporated, he has a deep-rooted dedication to lasting positive change. His commitment to professional development is reflected in his multiple certifications from esteemed industry bodies like ISC2, ISACA, PMI Institute, AXELOS, GIAC, Cisco, and CompTIA. Whether spearheading strategic initiatives or fostering community partnerships, Dr. Wilkinson's career exemplifies a profound commitment to empowering others and advancing the IT industry.