Robert Garbee

Deputy Chief Information Security Officer

Robert Garbee is the Deputy Chief Information Security Officer for Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA, where he leads a multidisciplinary team overseeing information security operations and information risk management. With more than 25 years of experience in IT and security, Garbee has held leadership roles across the health care, education, and defense sectors, driving strategic initiatives that strengthen enterprise security posture and regulatory compliance. In addition to his role at Virginia Tech, Garbee has served as an adjunct instructor at Virginia Western Community College, where he taught cybersecurity and information technology courses. He holds a Bachelor of Science in business management information systems from Liberty University and maintains CISSP, CCSP and CEH certifications. Garbee is also a founder of the Roanoke Information Security Exchange, or RISE, and BSides Roanoke. He is a recognized voice in the regional cybersecurity community, frequently presenting to local organizations and providing expert commentary to media outlets including The Roanoke Times and WSLS News 10.