Justin Vermillion

Creating at the intersection of AI and security


About Me

I’ve always been fascinated by how systems work and how they can be protected (or broken). My journey started with a Tandy TRS-80 and a Macintosh II gifted by elderly neighbors in the late 80s/early 90s. That curiosity led me from phone phreaking with a lineman’s handset to running a computer repair business in high school, and eventually to my current research in AI security.

When I’m not exploring the intersections of AI and cybersecurity, I own and manage a tattoo parlor and enjoy spending time in nature with my family - hiking and camping whenever possible.

Current Projects

I’m currently researching LLM guardrails and exploring methods for creating more secure code with LLMs. In the fall, I’ll be developing curriculum to teach Applied Cybersecurity to high school students, aiming to prepare them for Security+ certification.

What I Care About

  • Transparency - Clear communication and open sharing of knowledge
  • Humanity - Recognizing the human impact of technology
  • Respect - Valuing diverse perspectives and experiences

Background & Education

My path has been unconventional - from military service to a BA in Cultural Anthropology, an MBA with a minor in information security, and now pursuing a PhD in cybersecurity with a focus on generative AI. I believe in learning through multiple approaches, including teaching others.

“From such crooked wood as that which man is made of, nothing straight can be fashioned.” — Immanuel Kant

Feel free to reach out at vermillion@cs.nmt.edu if you want to chat about any of these topics!