Ben Gillenwater

Gillenwater
Founder & Chief Technologist
Family IT Guy

Ben Gillenwater, founder of Family IT Guy, served as Chief Technologist for Northrop Grumman's $10 billion IT business, supporting customers including the NSA and Department of Defense. With 30 years of experience, he brings deep technical knowledge to the conversation about youth safety online.

Recognizing that most adults did not grow up in the digital world children now navigate daily, Ben bridges the gap between technology, mental health, and youth safety. His work supports educators, law enforcement, school administrators, counselors, and community organizations by connecting online behavior to real-world outcomes, including exploitation, addiction, and emotional distress.

Rather than technical jargon or fear-based messaging, Ben delivers clear, actionable guidance designed to help professionals intervene earlier, communicate more effectively with families, and strengthen digital safety in their communities.