Curtis O’Neal takes his role as chair of the CompTIA Community Blockchain and Web3 Advisory Council very seriously—especially when it comes to breaking down the opportunities and challenges for MSPs.
He’s also been a sponge for learning about other CompTIA Community members’ businesses and how working together can help solve both individual and industry-wide problems.
For all his efforts and contributions, O’Neal received the 2024 CompTIA Community 2024 North America Industry Advisory Councils Leadership Award for his engagement, outstanding impact, leadership and passion to advance the technology industry.
O’Neal recently discussed how engagement in CompTIA Community has helped his business and career and what advice he has for MSPs. Here’s what he had to say.
What does it mean to you to be a leader on the CompTIA Industry Advisory Councils?
Being a leader on the CompTIA Industry Advisory Councils is a privilege and a significant responsibility. It's about driving the conversation on leveraging technology to solve real-world problems and improve our industry. For me, it's an opportunity to bring fresh ideas to the table, influence industry standards and collaborate with other experts to push the boundaries of what's possible. It’s not just about having a seat at the table; it’s about making a tangible impact on communities and councils.
How has the CompTIA Community helped your business and/or career?
The CompTIA Community has been a cornerstone in both my career and the growth of Cybernetics Global. It’s a hub of knowledge and networking that has connected me with some of the brightest minds in tech. The insights and resources available have helped us stay ahead of the curve, innovate our offerings and continuously improve our business practices. The community fosters an environment where collaboration and learning are at the forefront, which has been invaluable for our growth and success.
What is the best advice you ever got and how did it help you?
The best advice I ever received was to "listen more than you speak." This principle has shaped my leadership style and approach to business. By truly listening, I’ve been able to understand the needs and perspectives of our clients, team members and industry peers. It’s allowed me to make more informed decisions and build stronger collaborative relationships. Listening is a powerful tool that has enabled me to lead more effectively and drive our company’s success. My mantra is “I make the best decisions with the best information!” So listening to hear has always been an advantage for me.
What advice do you have for MSPs and other tech businesses trying to be more successful in 2024?
For MSPs and tech businesses aiming to succeed in 2024, my advice is to double down on cybersecurity, scalability and AI adoption. As the digital landscape evolves, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and the ability to scale efficiently cannot be overstated. Invest in these areas to protect your clients and ensure your solutions can grow with their needs. Additionally, integrating AI into your business models can provide significant advantages in terms of automation, predictive analytics and enhanced customer experiences. Focus on building strong, trust-based relationships with your clients, and stay ahead by understanding and anticipating their needs. This approach will help you deliver exceptional value and stand out in a competitive market.
How is your council helping CompTIA Community members better understand these technologies and how to use them?
Our council is dedicated to helping CompTIA Community members gain a deeper understanding of blockchain and Web3 technologies by providing educational resources, organizing events and fostering collaboration among industry experts. We host webinars that provide guidance and cover the fundamentals of these technologies, as well as their practical applications in various industries. Additionally, we create and distribute blogs and look to release white papers and best practice guides to help members stay informed about the latest developments and use cases. By facilitating networking opportunities and discussions, we also encourage members to share their experiences and insights, further enhancing their knowledge and ability to consider leveraging blockchain and Web3 in their respective verticals.Ready to grow professionally and personally?
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