Founded in 2024, Paragon Cyber emerged from a simple belief: cybersecurity talent should come from everywhere, and quality services shouldn’t be out of reach.
In 2024, Michael Bass and Leon Dupree founded Paragon Cyber as an incubator within Intergenerational Computer Education (IgCE). They saw two problems that demanded one solution:
The answer? A supervised residency model where certified students deliver client work under the guidance of experienced professionals. Organizations get affordable, high-quality security services. Students get career-launching experience. Everyone wins.
We never compromise on security or honesty
Mission-first organizations deserve protection
Every engagement is reviewed and quality-assured
Plain language, clear deliverables, no jargon
We never compromise on security or honesty
Mission-first organizations deserve protection
Every engagement is reviewed and quality-assured
Plain language, clear deliverables, no jargon
The cybersecurity industry has a diversity problem and an accessibility problem. Traditional firms charge rates that small organizations can’t afford. Meanwhile, talented students from underrepresented communities can’t break into the field without experience.
Paragon Cyber solves both. We create a pathway for diverse talent to enter cybersecurity through real, supervised client work. We make professional-grade security services accessible to nonprofits, small businesses, and mission-driven organizations. And we maintain quality through mentor oversight at every step.
Co-Founder
Visionary leader committed to building pathways for underrepresented talent in technology.
Co-Founder
Passionate about bridging the gap between education and real-world cybersecurity practice.
Our mentor network is composed of seasoned cybersecurity professionals who review student work, provide guidance, and ensure quality. Mentors participate through:
Quality review: Every deliverable is reviewed before it reaches the client
Technical guidance: Students consult mentors on complex scenarios
Professional development: Mentors coach students on communication and client management
Emergency escalation: If a critical issue arises, mentors step in directly
