Cy Says Blog & Podcast

From Help Desk to Security Engineer: A Journey of Growth and Purpose

Maduabuchi Nwankwo's journey into cybersecurity was anything but traditional. With a background in biology and business, his early career saw him troubleshooting mobile and computer devices at the national help desk. However, his passion for problem-solving and protecting digital assets led him to CyberUp’s apprenticeship program—an opportunity that would transform his career trajectory.

Finding the Right Path with CyberUp

Despite earning a four-year degree, Maduabuchi found CyberUp’s training to be far more effective in preparing him for a career in cybersecurity. The structured curriculum, hands-on experience, and unwavering support from program coordinators gave him the confidence and skills to succeed. His decision to enter the field was fueled by his desire to protect his family, his fascination with security policies, and the endless opportunities cybersecurity offers.

Building Skills and Gaining Visibility

Within just six months, Maduabuchi had already made a significant impact at his company, Edward Jones. His role as a security administrator allowed him to take on organization-wide security initiatives, troubleshooting certificate issues, and ensuring compliance with enterprise policies. His ability to integrate technical knowledge with strategic thinking positioned him as a valuable asset, leading him to advocate for career growth and increased responsibilities.

He also emphasized the importance of soft skills—communication, adaptability, and a willingness to learn—stating that while technical skills can be taught, strong soft skills set professionals apart in the workplace.

Reaching New Heights: Promotion to Security Engineer

A year into his apprenticeship, Maduabuchi achieved a major milestone—his promotion to Security Engineer, accompanied by an 11% salary increase. His favorite project? An enterprise-wide remediation of a vulnerability in a protocol analyzer, which solidified his expertise and impact within the organization.

His success wasn’t just about technical knowledge; it was about persistence, preparation, and humility. "The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, and once you start, don't stop," a quote from his father, became his guiding principle.

Looking Ahead: Continuous Learning and Giving Back

With his career on an upward trajectory, Maduabuchi is setting his sights on additional certifications in Azure and plans to take advantage of company-sponsored discounts to further his expertise. But he’s not just focused on his own growth—he’s also committed to mentoring future apprentices, offering guidance to those who are willing to put in the effort.

For those considering a cybersecurity apprenticeship, Maduabuchi offers this advice:

• Follow instructions, stay humble, and stay hungry. 
• Have a strong "why"—knowing your purpose will keep you motivated.
• Ask questions, take notes, and actively engage in learning.

The Best Part of the Journey

Beyond career advancement, Maduabuchi values the freedom and financial stability that come with his role. He appreciates the supportive culture at Edward Jones, where employees are valued and work-life balance is a priority. Most importantly, he cherishes the ability to provide for his family while doing work that challenges and fulfills him.

Maduabuchi’s story is a testament to what’s possible with dedication, the right training, and a strong support system. His journey—from help desk technician to security engineer—proves that with the right mindset and opportunities, a career in cybersecurity is within reach for anyone willing to put in the work.

Are You Ready to Start Your Cybersecurity Journey?

If you're inspired by Maduabuchi’s story, CyberUp’s apprenticeship program can help you take that first step. Let’s build a more diverse, skilled cybersecurity workforce—one apprentice at a time.

Finding a New Path

Elliott Thompson had already spent years working in logistics management in the United States Air Force. His background was one of precision, coordination, and efficiency—traits crucial for the work he did daily. After his service, Elliott found himself facing a familiar question that many veterans experience: what's next? He held a Bachelor's degree in Management, which was certainly valuable, but he yearned for a new direction. He wanted something challenging, dynamic, and relevant to the evolving needs of today’s world. When Elliott discovered CyberUp, a program that provides accessible cybersecurity career pathways for veterans, he saw an opportunity to pivot toward a promising career in cybersecurity.

Elliott chose CyberUp not only because he was curious about cybersecurity but also because he needed a new career path—one that catered to his experience and the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life. He valued that CyberUp’s programs specifically supported veterans, offering them a chance to not just retrain but to thrive through apprenticeships and hands-on opportunities.

Navigating the Transition

Elliott began his journey with CyberUp through their LevelUp Training program, immersing himself in the world of cybersecurity over the course of several months. The training helped him build foundational knowledge, and Elliott appreciated the structured approach it provided. He did, however, see room for more hands-on learning, suggesting that additional labs could be an excellent addition to the curriculum. His feedback was a testament to his desire to actively engage with every learning opportunity, eager to apply his skills practically, and make the most of his training.

Elliott’s determination paid off when he landed an apprenticeship at Centene Corporation as a reporting analyst. His new role focused on analyzing portfolio management processes and supporting budgeting decisions. For Elliott, it wasn’t just a new job—it was a place to bring together all the skills he’d developed: problem-solving from his Air Force days, data analysis from his training, and a desire to be a part of something bigger.

Challenges and Perseverance

The journey wasn’t always easy. Elliott faced a number of personal challenges while working to complete his required certification, an important milestone in his career progression. He experienced delays in taking the exam, both due to technical issues and personal circumstances. Despite these setbacks, Elliott remained focused, rescheduling his exam multiple times and even adjusting his plans to take the test closer to where his mother lived so he could balance his professional responsibilities with personal commitments. The process tested his patience, but it also underscored Elliott's resilience—a trait he had cultivated in the Air Force and now brought to his burgeoning cybersecurity career.

Throughout the apprenticeship, Elliott also had to navigate the challenge of proving his technical skills and establishing his place within his team. Initially, he encountered technical issues and struggled with integration, but he didn't let these challenges deter him. Instead, Elliott demonstrated his capabilities through consistent effort, engaging in all aspects of his role, and showing that he could adapt and grow.

Elliott's manager and team lead noticed his determination. Midway through the apprenticeship, discussions about extending his contract started to surface, and the possibility of being hired full-time became a realistic goal. Elliott worked hard to balance these expectations, his ongoing certification process, and the personal hurdles life threw his way. He learned that effective communication with his team was key—keeping them informed about the delays he was experiencing and managing expectations regarding his progress.

A Milestone Achievement

At the end of his apprenticeship, Elliott's persistence paid off when he was offered a full-time position with Centene. Reflecting on his journey, Elliott recognized the importance of not underestimating his own qualifications. He came to realize that the skills he had developed in the Air Force and during his apprenticeship were highly valuable, even if they weren't all purely technical. He learned that showcasing a wide range of skills—problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork—was just as critical as the technical knowledge he had worked so hard to build.

Paying It Forward

Elliott’s experience at CyberUp had a profound impact on his view of mentorship and community. He credits much of his success to the supportive network he built—mentors who offered guidance, teammates who provided encouragement, and a community that understood the unique challenges of transitioning to cybersecurity. Elliott decided that once his apprenticeship was over, he wanted to stay involved with CyberUp, offering mentorship to new apprentices. He believed that sharing his story, along with the lessons learned about perseverance, adaptability, and communication, could help others navigate their own paths.

He advises future apprentices to embrace every opportunity that comes their way, to stay involved, and to not give up when faced with difficulties. Building connections, Elliott says, is crucial—not just for professional opportunities but also for personal growth and support. He encourages apprentices to highlight the diversity of their experiences, understanding that technical skills are just part of what makes a great cybersecurity professional.

A New Future

Today, Elliott Thompson stands as a testament to the transformative power of CyberUp’s mission to create accessible career pathways. From his time in logistics management in the Air Force to becoming a full-time cybersecurity professional at Centene, Elliott’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and growth. He’s a reminder that career transitions, while challenging, are entirely possible with the right support, dedication, and willingness to learn. As he looks toward the future, Elliott is committed to continuing his professional development, mentoring others, and helping to make the cybersecurity industry a place where everyone, regardless of their background, can find their place and thrive.

Isaac Parle’s journey into cybersecurity began with a drive to serve others through his work. He saw cybersecurity as a field with opportunities for learning and growth, and CyberUp’s apprenticeship program provided an entryway. With little technical experience at the start, Isaac committed to improvement. He used YouTube tutorials, study groups, and online resources to prepare for his first certification exam, Network+. CyberUp’s support helped him secure an apprenticeship in a company that encouraged both interaction and learning, even in a mostly remote environment. Between virtual trivia nights and Slack channels where coworkers connected, Isaac found himself part of a community that kept him engaged.

The company’s flexible approach allowed him to work remotely while also going into the office a few days each week, which helped him ease into his new role. This experience gave Isaac insights into how remote companies operate, and he learned early on the importance of work-life balance. To maintain a boundary between work and personal life, he adopted the habit of closing the door to his home office at the end of each day. To deepen his industry knowledge, he also followed cybersecurity news through newsletters, Reddit, and a cybersecurity Discord server.

Growing as an Apprentice

The first half of the apprenticeship came with personal challenges, including moments of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Like many new to cybersecurity, Isaac sometimes questioned his place in the field. But his commitment to improvement and mentorship from CyberUp helped him push through. Reflecting on these moments, Isaac found that people skills and approachability helped him build relationships and gain insights from others on his team.

As Isaac progressed through his apprenticeship, his role expanded. Initially, he focused on help desk tasks, but as he gained skills, he began to support projects, configuring systems and handling integrations. Each assignment provided a chance to understand the field more deeply, and he gained confidence as he learned. By his sixth month, he had started working on system configurations, getting hands-on with cybersecurity operations.

Reaching a Milestone in the 12th Month

At the end of his apprenticeship, Isaac achieved a significant milestone: he was offered a full-time role as a junior systems administrator. This role brought more responsibilities, such as overseeing GitHub organizations and configuring systems. His path from help desk support to junior systems administrator reflects the growth he achieved during the apprenticeship and his commitment to learning at every stage.

Advice for Future CyberUp Apprentices

Looking back, Isaac shared advice for future apprentices entering CyberUp’s program. He noted that imposter syndrome is common, especially for those new to cybersecurity. He reminded aspiring professionals that everyone starts from the beginning, and while the field may seem daunting, perseverance and openness to learning make all the difference. He emphasized the value of people skills, saying that kindness and approachability help build good working relationships and lead to new learning opportunities.

He also found that a growth-oriented mindset was essential for overcoming challenges. Starting with little technical knowledge, Isaac built his skills gradually, proving that each step forward matters. His journey highlights that resilience and a dedication to learning are vital in cybersecurity.

Staying Involved and Looking Forward

Now a CyberUp alumnus, Isaac plans to stay connected with the community by joining the alumni network on LinkedIn and subscribing to the alumni newsletter. He sees this as a way to keep up with industry trends and improve his skills. Looking ahead, Isaac is ready to keep learning and make cybersecurity his lifelong career.

Isaac Parle’s story reflects the impact of CyberUp’s apprenticeship program. From a newcomer to a junior systems administrator, his journey shows the support and growth CyberUp fosters. As he continues in cybersecurity, Isaac’s experience will inspire others entering the field, showing them that with commitment and guidance, a promising future awaits.

As we face rapid technological change and increasing job market demands, one thing has become clear: traditional hiring models are failing us. The workforce is shifting, industries are evolving, and yet, many companies continue to rely on outdated hiring practices that prioritize degrees over skills. The consequences of not embracing skills-based hiring are more frightening than we realize, with far-reaching impacts on businesses, employees, and the economy at large.

Here’s why ignoring this shift can create a real nightmare:

The Talent Shortage Will Worsen  

One of the scariest outcomes of sticking to degree-based hiring is the growing talent gap. The cybersecurity industry is already facing a shortage of skilled professionals, with hundreds of thousands of unfilled jobs. Stubbornly clinging to old hiring methods creates artificial barriers that prevent qualified candidates from entering the workforce. 

By excluding people who have the skills but not the degree, companies are shooting themselves in the foot. Ignoring these candidates means businesses will continue to struggle to fill key roles, leading to operational inefficiencies, vulnerabilities, and lost opportunities. The competition for top talent is fierce, and it’s not just about fighting over those with a traditional background—it’s about looking beyond that, or risk falling behind.

Missed Innovation and Agility  

In an era where adaptability is key, failing to embrace skills-based hiring means missing out on a diverse, innovative workforce. Companies that focus only on candidates with degrees from specific institutions miss the unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches that come from individuals with nontraditional backgrounds.

Skills-based hiring opens the door to a wide range of talent, including self-taught professionals, career changers, and those from marginalized communities who may not have had access to formal education but have gained skills through other means. When we ignore this talent, we stifle innovation, limit agility, and risk becoming irrelevant in a rapidly changing landscape.

Economic Disparity Will Widen  

Skills-based hiring can play a major role in addressing inequality by opening opportunities for individuals from underrepresented and marginalized communities. However, if businesses fail to adopt this approach, the economic divide will only continue to widen.

The reliance on degree-based hiring perpetuates systemic barriers that limit upward mobility for many individuals. Those who cannot afford traditional education are left behind, even if they possess the skills to do the job. By not shifting our focus to what people *can do* versus what paper they hold, we contribute to an economic system that benefits the few at the expense of the many.

Business Vulnerabilities Increase  

The reluctance to adopt a skills-based hiring model also increases the risk of hiring underqualified individuals. While a degree may suggest a certain level of knowledge, it doesn’t guarantee the skills needed to perform well in a specific role. When companies default to degree requirements without verifying hands-on abilities, they run the risk of employing people who are not fully prepared to meet the demands of the job.

On the flip side, there are countless individuals who possess the technical skills and real-world experience needed for a job, yet their lack of formal education keeps them from getting a foot in the door. The result? Businesses are left with critical skills gaps and higher turnover rates, all while passing over the very candidates who could have filled those gaps.

Future-Proofing Requires Adaptation  

Finally, ignoring skills-based hiring puts businesses in a dangerous position in the long term. The future of work is shifting towards automation, AI, and the digital transformation of industries. Companies that are unwilling to adapt their hiring practices to focus on the skills required to navigate this new landscape will find themselves outpaced by competitors who do.

The future belongs to those who can adapt, learn new skills, and keep up with the demands of the market. If we don’t embrace skills-based hiring, we are choosing to cling to an outdated model that will leave us woefully unprepared for the future.

A Call to Action  

The scary truth is that the consequences of ignoring skills-based hiring are already being felt. Companies struggling to find talent, growing economic inequality, and missed innovation opportunities are just the beginning. We must take this shift seriously and reevaluate how we approach talent acquisition. The world is changing, and our hiring practices must change with it, or we risk being left behind in an increasingly competitive and uncertain market.

Now is the time to embrace the model and unlock the potential of a broader, more diverse workforce—before it’s too late.