From Military to Cybersecurity: How Alex Beat Built a Career with Curiosity, Grit, and CyberUp

Breaking into a new industry is never easy—especially one as complex and fast-paced as cybersecurity. But for Alex Beat, a recent graduate of CyberUp’s apprenticeship program, the journey has been one of growth, determination, and transformation.

Alex didn’t come from a traditional cybersecurity background. In fact, before he joined CyberUp’s LevelUp Training program, his professional path looked very different. But he brought something far more valuable than technical experience: a strong work ethic, a passion for problem-solving, and a willingness to learn from the ground up.

Through CyberUp’s training and apprenticeship, Alex found the structure, support, and real-world experience he needed to make a lasting pivot. Today, he’s proudly serving as an Infrastructure Security Engineer One at Centene Corporation. It's a role that didn’t just fall into his lap but was built step-by-step through consistent effort and a clear vision for his future.

Learning by Doing

Alex’s apprenticeship experience wasn’t without challenges. He described the early days as a “massive learning curve,” especially navigating the scale and complexity of Centene’s networks and systems. But instead of being discouraged, he leaned in. He credits his ability to adapt to two key strategies: focusing on the fundamentals and staying meticulously organized.

“I took a lot of notes using OneNote,” he shared. “Then I’d go back, reorganize them, and build on what I learned. It helped me track tasks and avoid getting lost in the complexity.”

It’s this type of discipline—paired with a mindset focused on continuous learning—that helped Alex stand out. Managers praised his ability to pick things up quickly and valued his contributions to team research and project support.

Growth Beyond the Keyboard

While gaining technical knowledge was a core part of Alex’s journey, the personal and professional growth he experienced went beyond hard skills. He became more confident in his communication, more strategic in how he approached problems, and more comfortable with not knowing all the answers right away.

He also found meaning in the work itself. “Helping protect the company feels like I’m doing something important,” he said. “It’s been rewarding to see how all of my training is coming together.”

When asked about future goals, Alex is clear: he’s aiming to advance to an Engineer II role and is already taking on new responsibilities like production scans and participating in the on-call rotation. It’s all part of a broader plan to keep growing in a career he’s passionate about.

Paying It Forward

As he begins the next phase of his career, Alex remains committed to the community that helped him get here. He’s open to staying involved with CyberUp as an alumni mentor or speaker, and wants to help others who are just starting their journey.

His advice for new apprentices? “Be okay with not knowing everything right away. Take good notes. Stay curious. And don’t be afraid to ask questions—just make sure you think them through first.”

At CyberUp, we believe the cybersecurity industry should reflect the world we live in—diverse, driven, and filled with people like Alex who bring new perspectives and a hunger to learn. His story is a powerful reminder that with the right guidance and opportunity, breaking into cybersecurity isn’t just possible—it’s transformative.

Congratulations, Alex. We're proud to have you in our alumni community and can’t wait to see where your path leads next.

Ready to Build a Stronger Cybersecurity Workforce?

If you're an employer looking for driven, hands-on cybersecurity talent like Jermaine, CyberUp’s Apprenticeship Program can connect you with candidates who are trained, motivated, and ready to contribute on day one.

Thinking About a Career in Cybersecurity?

If you’re curious about cybersecurity but don’t yet have your CompTIA Security+ certification, CyberUp’s LevelUp Training program might be the perfect place to start. We provide accessible, self-paced training to help you earn your certification and prepare for apprenticeship opportunities.

When I think back to ten years ago, I remember the early days of CyberUp — the long hours, the brainstorming sessions in coffee shops, and the excitement of seeing our first students begin their cybersecurity journeys. I remember one student, a veteran, who had never considered a career in tech. After completing our program, he landed his first role as a cyber analyst and later told me that it completely changed the trajectory of his life. It’s moments like these, when someone recognizes their own potential, that have driven the heart of my journey with CyberUp.

Another story that has stayed with me is about a student we first met when he was in middle school through one of our programs. Even then, he showed curiosity, dedication, and a spark for technology. Over the years, we’ve watched him grow, participate in workshops, take on mentorship opportunities, and eventually launch a career in cybersecurity. Seeing that journey — from middle school classroom to industry professional — illustrates why our work matters and the long-term impact of early engagement in cybersecurity.

On October 15th, we celebrated ten years of CyberUp. I was reminded of how far we’ve come. Ten years of creating opportunities, building careers, and strengthening communities through cybersecurity. Looking around at our partners, mentors, funders, and supporters, it was clear that none of this would be possible without the people who believed in our mission from the very beginning.

When we started CyberUp a decade ago, the world of cybersecurity looked very different. Most companies were only beginning to realize that cyber threats weren’t just an IT problem — they were a business problem, a people problem, and, ultimately, a community problem. We knew that the solution wasn’t just about technology; it was about people.

CyberUp was created to build a skilled workforce that supports people, companies, and communities. We provide students, veterans, and career changers with the training and opportunities they need to launch meaningful careers in cybersecurity. Over the past ten years, this mission has grown into something that has changed lives and strengthened communities.

The impact we’ve seen is remarkable:

• We’ve trained and upskilled more than 800 individuals for cybersecurity careers.
  
  
• We’ve partnered with over 125 employers nationwide to create apprenticeship opportunities that turn potential into professions.
  
  
• We’ve inspired more than 4,000 students through youth programs that make cybersecurity hands-on, exciting, and accessible.
  
  

Along the way, we’ve seen people from every background discover that they belong in this field. From a single mom transitioning from a call center into a cyber analyst role, to veterans bringing their discipline and service mindset into protecting digital frontlines, these are the stories that define CyberUp’s success.

As we celebrate these accomplishments, we’re also looking ahead. The world of cybersecurity continues to evolve rapidly, and we know that the work of building strong people, strong companies, and strong communities is never finished. Over the next decade, we’re excited to continue expanding our impact, exploring new opportunities, and preparing for the future.

Looking back on ten years of growth, impact, and partnerships fills me with pride and gratitude. Looking forward, we’re more committed than ever to empowering individuals, supporting employers, and strengthening communities across the country.

CyberUp’s story is a story of people, partnerships, and potential — and it’s only just beginning. Together, we’ll continue building careers, fostering opportunity, and shaping a stronger, more resilient future for all.

Here’s to the next ten years of growth and impact.

Jermaine Buckels: A Journey of Growth, Grit, and Giving Back

For Jermaine Buckels, stepping into the world of cybersecurity was more than a career move—it was a bold leap into a future full of possibilities. After completing a 12-month apprenticeship with Washington University in St. Louis through CyberUp, Jermaine leaves the program with hands-on experience, industry-recognized certifications, and a strong desire to give back.

A Nontraditional Path, A Focused Future

Jermaine didn’t come from a traditional tech background. His journey into cybersecurity began through Per Scholas, a nonprofit that provides IT training, and was accelerated by CyberUp’s apprenticeship program. At WashU, Jermaine joined the Enterprise Applications team, where his responsibilities grew from coding tasks to high-impact projects in service and asset management.

From Learning to Leading

Early in the apprenticeship, Jermaine balanced coding in C# with gaining an understanding of ITIL practices and hardware/software asset management. He worked on real-world challenges, like organizing infrastructure spending and streamlining processes using tools like Power BI, ServiceNow, and Splunk.

“I went from learning to code to managing multi-layered projects that impacted the organization’s operations,” Jermaine shared. “It pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect.”

He also earned his Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification and continues to study for additional credentials, including ITIL, to deepen his cloud and operations knowledge.

Collaboration and Confidence

Jermaine’s projects often involved working across teams of 8–15 people. He learned the value of collaborative thinking, communication, and navigating the nuances of meetings and workflows. Despite the volume of work, he consistently brought structure and energy to every challenge.

“Collaboration helped me think more broadly—about how security, service management, and user experience all connect.”

Real Talk: Career Advice from Jermaine

Throughout his apprenticeship, Jermaine became passionate about demystifying cybersecurity for newcomers. He encourages future apprentices to focus on the basics—reading the book, completing labs, and asking questions.

“You don’t need to know everything. Focus on awareness. Emails, USB drives—those small things can create big threats. Simplicity matters.”

He also recommends free learning platforms like Try Hack Me, Hack The Box, and LinkedIn Learning for anyone looking to expand their knowledge outside of the classroom.

Giving Back and Moving Forward

Jermaine is still exploring his next professional step after completing the program but remains active in job interviews and conversations within the industry. He’s interested in roles that blend cloud computing, security, and service management—and he’s open to mentorship, too.

“This experience changed how I see work and purpose. I want to stay connected to CyberUp and help others find their path.”

More Than a Program—A Community

Jermaine’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and heart. Through structure, support, and determination, he built a new foundation for his career and opened the door to future growth. As a proud CyberUp alum, Jermaine is already looking for ways to support the next wave of cybersecurity talent.

“The apprenticeship was a breath of fresh air. It made me feel like I belonged in this field—and now I’m ready to build on that.”

Ready to Build a Stronger Cybersecurity Workforce?

If you're an employer looking for driven, hands-on cybersecurity talent like Jermaine, CyberUp’s Apprenticeship Program can connect you with candidates who are trained, motivated, and ready to contribute on day one.

Thinking About a Career in Cybersecurity?

If you’re curious about cybersecurity but don’t yet have your CompTIA Security+ certification, CyberUp’s LevelUp Training program might be the perfect place to start. We provide accessible, self-paced training to help you earn your certification and prepare for apprenticeship opportunities.

Miguel Hurtado: From Apprentice to Infrastructure Security Engineer

When Miguel Hurtado began his cybersecurity apprenticeship with CyberUp, he brought curiosity, motivation, and a willingness to learn. Twelve months later, he’s stepped confidently into a full-time role as an Infrastructure Security Engineer at Centene, equipped with real-world experience and a clearer sense of his future in cybersecurity.

Building Technical Confidence

Throughout his apprenticeship, Miguel strengthened both his technical and professional skills. He sharpened his attention to detail, learned to follow structured procedures, and became more confident navigating Linux systems. He also gained experience troubleshooting connectivity issues and using industry-standard tools like Nessus for vulnerability scans.

“I’ve learned how important it is to follow steps, rely on reference materials, and ask questions,” Miguel shared.

Discovering the Power of Automation

One of Miguel’s most impactful projects involved writing batch files and supporting automation tasks. This experience sparked his interest in scalable, efficient security practices—and showed him just how vital automation is in the cybersecurity field.

“It really opened my eyes to the role of automation in making cybersecurity stronger and more streamlined,” he said.

Overcoming Challenges with Support

Like many apprentices, Miguel encountered challenges—especially when interpreting complex vulnerability tickets. But he leaned into his team for guidance, learning to problem-solve with support from more experienced colleagues. This willingness to seek help became one of his greatest strengths.

Looking Ahead: Continuous Growth

With encouragement from his mentors and CyberUp, Miguel began exploring cloud certifications. He’s currently working toward the AWS Solutions Architect certification and using CyberUp’s alumni resources to stay focused. Though still early in this journey, Miguel is eager to keep learning and expanding his knowledge.

What the Apprenticeship Meant to Miguel

Miguel describes the apprenticeship as an experience that gave him access to tools, language, and environments he wouldn’t have encountered elsewhere. Getting paid to learn, being surrounded by knowledgeable teammates, and having a clear path forward made the experience invaluable.

Paying It Forward

Now in a full-time engineering role, Miguel is continuing to grow while also looking for ways to give back. He’s expressed interest in becoming a mentor through CyberUp’s youth programs and staying active in the alumni network.

“This apprenticeship gave me a foundation I couldn’t have built on my own,” Miguel said. “It showed me what’s possible—and now I’m ready to keep going.”

Are You Ready to Start Your Cybersecurity Journey?

If you're inspired by Miguel'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.

A Decade of Cybersecurity Impact

Celebrating 10 Years of CyberUp

In October 2015, CyberUp was founded with a clear and ambitious vision: to develop and support a highly skilled cybersecurity workforce. Over the past ten years, CyberUp has grown from a regional initiative into a nationally recognized leader in cybersecurity workforce development, helping professionals gain the skills and training needed to enter and excel in the cybersecurity industry. This journey has not only focused on career transition and workforce development but has also emphasized early-stage engagement through PowerUp, CyberUp’s K-12 cybersecurity education program, ensuring the next generation is prepared for the challenges of the digital world. 

As we embark on our 10th-anniversary celebration, we take this opportunity to reflect on the milestones that have shaped our journey, recognize the individuals and organizations that have contributed to our success, and outline our vision for the next few years of impact. 

Addressing a Critical Workforce Challenge

A decade ago, the cybersecurity industry faced a pressing challenge: a rapidly expanding threat landscape combined with a significant workforce shortage. Employers struggled to fill cybersecurity positions due to the lack of qualified professionals, and traditional hiring models often left capable candidates without a clear path into the industry. 

CyberUp was founded to address this challenge with a K-career approach, which emphasizes early exposure, structured training, and direct career entry points at every stage of an individual’s development. Through PowerUp, CyberUp introduces cybersecurity education to K-12 students, equipping them with foundational awareness of cybersecurity. For professionals looking to transition into cybersecurity, LevelUp provides structured training and CompTIA Security+ certification preparation, while the Cybersecurity Analyst Registered Apprenticeship Program offers a direct transition into the cybersecurity workforce. The apprenticeship program also helps employers attract and retain qualified talent to their cybersecurity team(s). 

Over the past ten years, CyberUp has transformed this vision into reality, pioneering workforce development strategies that have led to long-term success for many transitioning professionals and employers. 

2015-2017: Establishing a Strong Foundation

One of the most significant milestones in CyberUp’s history came in 2017, when the organization became the first in the region to establish a Cybersecurity Analyst Registered Apprenticeship Program. 

This initiative introduced a hands-on, work-based learning model that provided candidates with structured CompTIA Security+ certification training and real-world experience. Unlike traditional education models, apprenticeship programs offer immediate career entry, employer-driven training, and mentorship, making them an effective solution for cybersecurity workforce development. 

At the same time, CyberUp was actively working to build early-stage awareness and engagement through the organization’s youth education program.. By the end of 2017, CyberUp had: 

• Launched its apprenticeship program, helping 33 professionals successfully transition into cybersecurity careers. 
• Delivered 45 national and regional speaking engagements to advocate for cybersecurity workforce development. 
• Engaged 500+ K-12 students in cybersecurity awareness and education through PowerUp. 

These achievements reinforce CyberUp’s approach, demonstrating that early exposure, structured training, and apprenticeships are critical components of a successful cybersecurity career pathway. 

2019: Rebranding and Expanding Impact

In 2019, CyberUp underwent a strategic rebranding, evolving from the Midwest Cyber Center of Excellence into a national organization with a broader mission. The name CyberUp better reflected the organization’s expanding reach and commitment to workforce development. 

That same year, CyberUp launched LevelUp, a structured training program designed to help professionals prepare for cybersecurity certifications and transition into the field. LevelUp provided: 

• Self-paced learning for working professionals. 
• Instructor-led courses for guided skill development. 
• Career support to help participants navigate job placement opportunities. 

In 2019, CyberUp’s LevelUp program demonstrated significant impact: 

• 85 professionals gained CompTIA Security+ certification training. 
• 46 corporate partnerships provided apprenticeship opportunities. 
• 277 volunteers offered mentorship and industry expertise. 

Additionally, CyberUp was honored with the FOCUS St. Louis “What’s Right with the Region” Award, recognizing the organization’s contributions to workforce development and economic growth. 

2020-2023: National Recognition and Program Expansion

CyberUp continued to scale its programs, gaining national recognition and expanding its initiatives to support individuals pursuing cybersecurity careers. 

PowerUp Cyber Games: Engaging the Next Generation

In 2020, CyberUp introduced PowerUp Cyber Games, a competitive learning experience designed to build foundational cybersecurity skills among K-12 students. This initiative provided hands-on challenges that introduced participants to real-world cybersecurity scenarios, preparing them for future careers in the industry. 

Becoming a Department of Defense SkillBridge Provider

In 2021, CyberUp was approved as a Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge provider, a designation that allowed the organization to support transitioning service members as they prepared for civilian cybersecurity careers. This initiative provided structured training and direct career placement opportunities for military personnel entering the cybersecurity workforce. 

Strengthening Apprenticeship Leadership

By 2022, CyberUp had been recognized as a Department of Labor (DoL) Apprenticeship Ambassador, reinforcing the organization’s leadership in the national apprenticeship movement. Additionally, CyberUp became a Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (ENPP) provider, expanding the organization’s ability to support military-affiliated individuals pursuing cybersecurity careers. 

Revamping CyberUp’s Youth Education Program

In 2023, CyberUp piloted a revamped youth education program program for K-12 students, now known as PowerUp, reinforcing the importance of early exposure to cybersecurity education. This introduced: 

• A new curriculum designed to build cybersecurity awareness and skills. 
• Expanded volunteer opportunities, allowing industry professionals to engage directly with students. 
• Stronger partnerships with schools and organizations such as the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri to broaden the reach of cybersecurity education. 

2024 and Beyond: Scaling Impact and Expanding Workforce Development

As CyberUp enters its 10th year, the organization remains committed to expanding its reach, refining its programs, and ensuring that cybersecurity careers remain accessible to individuals with the interest and motivation to succeed in the field. Several key initiatives in 2024 highlight this ongoing commitment: 

• Approval of National Program Standards for the Cybersecurity Analyst Apprenticeship Program, ensuring standardized, high-quality training across the country.
• Launch of the CyberUp Alumni Program, creating a long-term professional network for program graduates.
• Continued growth of PowerUp, expanding the program’s curriculum and partnerships to reach more K-12 students.
• Membership in Apprenticeships for America (AFA), strengthening CyberUp’s influence in shaping national apprenticeship policies and workforce development strategies.

The cybersecurity workforce shortage remains a pressing challenge, but CyberUp is positioned to create accessible cybersecurity career pathways - one person, employer, and community at a time. 

Introducing the CyberUp, Special Edition, 10th Anniversary Logo

To mark this milestone, CyberUp is unveiling its special edition 10th Anniversary Logo, a visual representation of ten years of innovation, workforce transformation, and commitment to cybersecurity workforce development. This emblem will be prominently featured throughout anniversary celebrations, at events, and in digital campaigns.

As CyberUp reflects on a decade of impact, we remain dedicated to supporting the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, from early education through career advancement. Whether through PowerUp, LevelUp, or our apprenticeship program, our mission remains the same: to elevate the cybersecurity workforce by igniting curiosity, developing talent, and transforming career pathways.

How Barry-Wehmiller Built a Skilled Cybersecurity Team with CyberUp Apprenticeships

An Inside Look at a Partnership that Addresses the Cybersecurity Talent Gap. 

Introduction: A Partnership for Growth

In 2018, Barry-Wehmiller, a global leader in manufacturing technology, faced a challenge that resonates with many organizations today: finding skilled cybersecurity professionals to safeguard their operations. The increasing demand for cybersecurity experts, coupled with a highly competitive job market, made it difficult for Barry-Wehmiller to attract top talent. 

Enter CyberUp, a nonprofit dedicated to creating accessible cybersecurity career pathways. After meeting CyberUp’s Executive Director, Tony Bryan, at an industry event, Barry-Wehmiller’s CISO, Roftiel Constantine, immediately saw the value in partnering with CyberUp to develop a resilient and skilled cybersecurity team. This collaboration marked the beginning of a transformative journey. 

The Challenge: Building a Talented Cybersecurity Team

Barry-Wehmiller’s commitment to innovation required a robust cybersecurity team to protect its IT infrastructure and sensitive data. However, like many organizations, they struggled with the widening cybersecurity talent gap. Traditional hiring methods were no longer sufficient, and the company needed a solution that would nurture talent from the ground up. 

CyberUp’s apprenticeship model presented a unique opportunity: develop motivated individuals with foundational knowledge and a drive to succeed in the cybersecurity industry, equipping them to grow into key roles within Barry-Wehmiller.

The Solution: CyberUp's Apprenticeship Program

The partnership began with a leap of faith for Barry-Wehmiller–during a layover in Reykjavik, Iceland, Roftiel interviewed two candidates recommended by CyberUp. Both had completed the CompTIA Security+ certification through CyberUp’s LevelUp Training program, showcasing their commitment to growth. 

Barry-Wehmiller hired Darren, their first apprentice, who quickly became an integral part of the team. Starting in email security, Darren leveraged CyberUp’s structured approach to continue building his expertise in areas like vulnerability management and incident response. 

In the years that followed, the success of their first apprentice inspired Barry-Wehmiller to hire four additional apprentices, one after another, each bringing unique strengths that bolstered the cybersecurity team’s capabilities. 

The Result: Tangible Benefits for Barry-Wehmiller

CyberUp apprentices have delivered value to Barry-Wehmiller. Darren, the first hire, spent three years with the team and consistently exceeded expectations. His collaborative energy inspired others and showcased the potential of apprenticeship programs to nurture talent. 

Key benefits include:

• Cost Efficiency: Hiring costs for apprentices were significantly lower than traditional methods, with CyberUp providing access to motivated, entry-level talent. 

• Improved Team Performance: Apprentices’ drive to learn and grow raised the bar for the entire team. 

• Talent Retention: Apprentices were not only skilled but also invested in the company’s mission, contributing to a positive workplace culture. 

Overcoming Common Objections

Some organizations hesitate to embrace apprenticeships due to concerns about cost, timing, and trust. Barry-Wehmiller addressed these concerns effectively: 

• Cost: The program’s affordability made it a smart investment, delivering top-tier talent with minimal financial risk. 

• Timing: Apprentices were onboarded quickly, filling gaps in a timely manner. 

• Trust: The first apprentice’s success built a confidence in the program’s value, paving the way for continued growth and collaboration. 

Looking Ahead: A Partnership for the Future

Barry-Wehmiller plans to maintain at least one apprentice on the cybersecurity team at all times, using the program to address entry-level gaps and meet evolving needs. The company’s commitment to continuous learning aligns perfectly with CyberUp’s mission, ensuring a bright future for both CyberUp and Barry-Wehmiller. 

Advice for Other Organizations

For companies looking to address their cybersecurity talent gaps, Barry-Wehmiller’s leadership offers this advice: 

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.