Charles Long Jr. is a determined lifelong learner who wanted more in life. Charles started as a Janitor at a local casino however, he knew he wanted more for himself and his family and that is when he decided to pursue a new career in cybersecurity. With some assistance from CyberUp, he dove into the challenge and proved his determination. That's when his adventure with CyberUp kicked off, providing him not just with a roadmap but also with a boost of confidence throughout his apprenticeship program.
According to Charles, CyberUp wasn't just about learning technical skills – it played a crucial role in building up his self-confidence. In the world of cybersecurity, confidence is your secret weapon. For Charles, "Details Matter" is not just a saying – it's a way of life in the cybersecurity realm. It's about that meticulous mindset, the precision, and the undivided attention to detail that makes all the difference.
Of course, Charles didn't skate through his journey without facing challenges. Self-confidence was a bit of a struggle, and visualizing himself in a cybersecurity role was an uncomfortable feeling for him due to his lack of confidence. He constantly questioned himself and wondered if he could even do the job and do it well. But with CyberUp’s assistance offering constant support and assurance, Charles conquered those fears and came out on top.
So, what's the value Charles got from CyberUp? In his own words, "a career." It’s not just about learning the ropes; it's about CyberUp opening doors to a fulfilling career in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. Charles reflects on some of his favorite projects during his apprenticeship with Object Computing. He found joy in working on audits, getting that ISO certification stamp, and diving into various Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) initiatives. As an Associate IT Engineer, he's not just contributing; he's jumpstarting security programs and playing a key role in his company's success.
Moving forward, Charles has his eyes set on continuous learning and hints at potential roles like a forensic analyst or a cybersecurity pro testifying in court. Despite some initial hesitation, Charles is all in for becoming a mentor and contributing to CyberUp's youth program, PowerUp. Public speaking might not be his forte, but his willingness to volunteer and share his experiences shows a genuine commitment to giving back and helping others find their way in the world of cybersecurity.
In a nutshell, Charles Long's journey is more than a success story – it's an inspiration for anyone eyeing a career in cybersecurity. From janitor to Associate IT Engineer, his story is a testament to the transformative power of determination, continuous learning, and a bit of mentorship.
As CyberUp continues to empower individuals like Charles, it's not just changing lives; it's reshaping the entire landscape of cybersecurity.