--- title: Cy Says Blog (14) description: Cy Says Blog is a place where industry professionals, STEM enthusiasts, and career seekers can find relevant and timely news and content about cybersecurity. (14) --- [![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Cyberup%20Logo_no_tagline-1.png?width=1966&height=881&name=Cyberup%20Logo_no_tagline-1.png)](https://wecyberup.org/) Open main menu Close main menu # Cy Says Blog & Podcast Select Category apprenticeship Blog board members certification college cost management CTF cybersecurity diversity Graduate hacking Hiring Interviewing Latest News Leadership Networking Podcast Skill-gap Skills-Based Hiring skillsbasedhiring social engineering STEM training veterans youth program This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/_LevelUp%20Podcast%2054%20(1280%20%C3%97%20720%20px).png) [cybersecurity,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cybersecurity) [STEM,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/stem) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 54: Online Safety for Kids with Amber Lowry](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-54-online-safety-for-kids-with-amber-lowry) Apr 10, 2023, 2:57:01 PM Online safety is paramount for Amber as a mom of two small children. Parents and guardians of elementary students especially need to exercise parental controls like cutting off in-app purchases and chat features. Amber also discussed limiting physical access to devices by having blackout times and requiring devices to be used in common space areas. Offline activities for devices are preferential and maintaining open communication with your child is a must. Knowing that your child is properly equipped with online knowledge and prepared to tell you if anything concerning happens is the goal.   [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-54-online-safety-for-kids-with-amber-lowry) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/LevelUp%20Podcast%2053%20(1280%20%C3%97%20720%20px)%20(1).png) [cybersecurity,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cybersecurity) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 53: Hiring and Retention Trends for Cyber with Jon Brandt](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-53-hiring-and-retention-trends-for-cyber-with-jon-brandt) Apr 4, 2023, 4:45:33 PM We all know the catch-22; I can't gain experience without a job, but the job requires experience. According to Brandt experience is the number one qualifier for a career and the proverbial silver bullet approach is networking. Given the large reset of the global economy due to the pandemic, layoffs have plagued every occupation. Brandt predicts tech jobs will be more layoff resistant but not completely immune. The idea of remote work also continues to be a way of lowering costs in terms of labor and office space.   [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-53-hiring-and-retention-trends-for-cyber-with-jon-brandt) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/Copy%20of%20Malik%20Levelup%20Success%20Story%20(1280%20%C3%97%20720%20px)%20(2)-1.png) [cybersecurity,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cybersecurity) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [training,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/training) [Blog](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) ### [Apprentice Success Story: Malik Barnett](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-malik-barnett) Apr 4, 2023, 4:40:29 PM   "Be a leader, not a follower" were the words that echoed Malik's passion. Armed with that motivational phrase, Malik constantly looked for ways to better himself. Knowing cybersecurity would always be an in-demand field was the impetus for Malik's journey. And, having a knack for problem-solving and analytical thinking made him a great candidate for cyber. Malik's original aspiration was in the world of professional sports. As a college athlete, he channeled his passion for basketball into a position as a shoe store manager. Due to unforeseeable circumstances, he had to abandon his path toward playing professional sports. During this time, Malik considered engineering and information technology as potential majors at Maryville University. Ultimately, he opted for cybersecurity due to its parallels with team-building, an integral part of his basketball experience. Malik discovered CyberUp through a trusted source - a colleague who recognized his potential for a career in cybersecurity. Upon meeting with CyberUp's executive director, Tony Bryan, Malik's interest in the field was piqued.  Through his pursuit of a master's degree at Maryville University, Malik found CyberUp was a valuable resource in supplementing his cybersecurity education. CyberUp provided him with a seamless transition into a career in cybersecurity, fortified by strong professional relationships to turn to for assistance. Malik notes that the opportunity to learn something new every day, a hallmark of the cybersecurity field, is one of his favorite aspects of the job. Malik's apprenticeship with Centene through CyberUp paved the way for a full-time role as a systems engineer at the company. From his starting position as a security analyst to his current role, CyberUp played a pivotal role in guiding Malik toward a successful cybersecurity career. In Malik's own words, CyberUp positioned him for an auspicious entry into the cybersecurity field.   [Amber Lowry](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/amber-lowry) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-malik-barnett) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/LevelUp%20Podcast%2052%20(1280%20%C3%97%20720%20px)%20(1).png) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [training,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/training) [college,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/college) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 52: ACC's Impact on Apprenticeships with Eric Dunker](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-52-accs-impact-on-apprenticeships-with-eric-dunker) Mar 27, 2023, 4:18:02 PM The eco-system for cyber needs to be revamped for the future according to Eric Dunker Ph.D., Vice President of Workforce and Economic Development at Arapahoe Community College. Partnerships and pathways must be the new school approach. Colorado's bipartisan support of apprenticeship has propelled partnerships in the tech space with region-wide incentives. It's not a notion of either apprenticeship or college but how both can work in tandem. [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-52-accs-impact-on-apprenticeships-with-eric-dunker) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/LevelUp%20Podcast%2051%20(1280%20%C3%97%20720%20px)%20(1).png) [cybersecurity,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cybersecurity) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [Hiring,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/hiring) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 51: Bulldogs vs. Brain Surgeons with Eddie Williams](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-51-bulldogs-vs.-brain-surgeons-with-eddie-williams) Mar 20, 2023, 2:49:39 PM When deciding on a new hire your HR has to be realistic about qualifications for the role. They also have to find the best ratio of no pedigree but experienced workers (Bulldogs) to hyper-specialized professionals (Brain surgeons). Shorten that fantasy laundry list of qualifications to essential skills because those that meet the fantasy requirement (Unicorns) have jobs already. Don't forget bulldogs often become brain surgeons.    [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-51-bulldogs-vs.-brain-surgeons-with-eddie-williams) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/LevelUp%20Podcast%2050.png) [cybersecurity,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cybersecurity) [Leadership,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/leadership) [cost management,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cost-management) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 50: Security is more than a cost center with Dave Stapleton](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-50-security-is-more-than-a-cost-center-with-dave-stapleton) Mar 13, 2023, 2:48:09 PM Dave Stapelton Chief Information Security Officer at Cyber GRX (Global Risk Exchange) details his journey from accounting to cybersecurity. He discusses how the role of CISO has evolved, why security programs are stigmatized as cost centers, and ways the cost center narrative can be changed.   [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-50-security-is-more-than-a-cost-center-with-dave-stapleton) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/Copy%20of%20LevelUp%20Podcast%2048.png) [cybersecurity,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cybersecurity) [training,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/training) [veterans,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/veterans) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 49: Free Cybersecurity Training Resources with Paul Cummings](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-49-free-cybersecurity-training-resources-with-paul-cummings) Mar 6, 2023, 4:28:36 PM Paul Cummings shares all the free training options for getting into cybersecurity. He names SANS Cyber Aces, Try Hack Me, Range Force, Evolve Security, Cyber Skills 2 Work, and his organization Whole Cyber Human Initiative as go-to training programs. Tony adds IT Pro TV To the list and urges users to treat these opportunities with the same discipline as paid training.   [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-49-free-cybersecurity-training-resources-with-paul-cummings) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/LevelUp%20Podcast%2048.png) [cybersecurity,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cybersecurity) [Leadership,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/leadership) [Networking,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/networking) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 48: Pathways into Cybersecurity with Erica Wilson](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-48-pathways-into-cybersecurity-with-erica-wilson) Feb 27, 2023, 2:12:45 PM Erica Wilson current VP, Global Cybersecurity and Privacy Risk Management at RGA gives us a glimpse of her career journey and then explains fundamental things she has learned along the way. For instance, the importance of building a network prior to looking for a career and how to best reposition yourself with interdisciplinary skills. Erica urges those looking to get into cyber to study the companies they wish to work for and consider peripheral roles that may set them in desired roles later.     [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-48-pathways-into-cybersecurity-with-erica-wilson) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/LevelUp%20Podcast%2047.png) [Hiring,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/hiring) [Networking,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/networking) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 47: Keys to Hiring Entry Level Talent with Alan Berry](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-47-keys-to-hiring-entry-level-talent-with-alan-berry) Feb 21, 2023, 2:01:18 PM   [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-47-keys-to-hiring-entry-level-talent-with-alan-berry) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/LevelUp%20Podcast%2046.png) [cybersecurity,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/cybersecurity) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [Skill-gap,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/skill-gap) [Podcast](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/podcast) ### [Ep 46: Driving Apprenticeships in America with Ryan Craig](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-46-driving-apprenticeships-in-america-with-ryan-craig) Feb 13, 2023, 1:50:38 PM   [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/ep-46-driving-apprenticeships-in-america-with-ryan-craig) [12](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/page/12) [13](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/page/13) [14](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/page/14) [15](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/page/15) [16](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/page/16) #### About - As a national nonprofit organization, we are committed to cultivating the cybersecurity talent pipeline for today and tomorrow. #### Services - Training - Apprenticeship [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/wecyberup/?mibextid=LQQJ4d) [Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/school/wecyberup/) [Follow us on Twitter](https://twitter.com/wecyberup?s=11&t=vJaSJPcwTIam8d0-5JtJ6Q) [Follow us on Instagram](https://instagram.com/wecyberup?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=)