Cy Says Blog & Podcast

Starting a career in cybersecurity is similar to the excitement and anticipation of starting a new school year. As students prepare for new academic challenges and experiences, aspiring cybersecurity professionals immerse themselves in the world of digital security and data protection. In this blog we will explore the parallels between transitioning to cybersecurity and starting school, highlighting steps needed to navigate this dynamic career and succeed in cyberspace.

1. A Scary First Day: Acquiring Basic Knowledge

When a student walks into a classroom on the first day of school, they encounter a realm of unfamiliar subjects. Similarly, entering the cybersecurity world can be overwhelming in terms of technical jargon, tools, and concepts. Embrace the initial jitters and focus on acquiring foundational knowledge. Enroll in cybersecurity classes, read industry blogs, and become familiar with cybersecurity frameworks.

2. Building Relationships: Networking in the Cyber Community

Just as school is an opportunity to make friends, getting into cybersecurity gives you the opportunity to network with industry professionals. Join cybersecurity forums, attend conferences, and connect with mentors who can guide you on your journey. Networking opens doors to new opportunities and valuable insights.

3. Problem-solving Skills: Embracing Challenges

School presents students with various challenges and encourages them to develop their problem-solving skills. Cybersecurity professionals face similar scenarios when dealing with constant threats. Embrace challenges with an inquisitive mind and determination to find solutions.

4. Learning from Mistakes: Embracing Continuous Improvement

Mistakes are a natural part of any learning process. In school, students learn from mistakes to improve their academic performance. Similarly, cybersecurity professionals must have a continuous improvement mindset that will help them investigate security breaches, understand root causes, and implement strategies to prevent future occurrences.

5. Teamwork and Cooperation: Playing Nice in the Sandbox

Group projects and teamwork take place in schools, teaching students the value of collaboration. In cybersecurity, collaboration between teams such as threat analysts, IT professionals, and management is critical to effectively defend against cyber threats. Learning to play nice in the Sandbox (pun intended) is a transferable skill that applies to everything. 

6. Being Curious: Embracing Lifelong Learning

Successful students have a curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. It’s important to stay on top of the latest trends, threats, and technologies in cybersecurity.  Engage in continuous learning, pursue certifications, and explore new aspects of cybersecurity to stay ahead in the field.

7. Graduation Day: Achieving Cybersecurity Milestones

Just as graduation is a milestone for students, cybersecurity professionals celebrate milestones as they advance in their careers. Whether earning certifications, leading security projects, or getting a promotion, every step is worth celebrating.

The transition to cybersecurity is similar to the excitement and challenges of starting a new school year. Embrace the journey with a thirst for knowledge, a commitment to collaboration, and a passion for problem-solving. As you navigate the cybersecurity field, remember that, like school, it’s a lifelong learning process. Embrace each challenge, learn from mistakes, and celebrate your achievements as you embark on a rewarding career in cybersecurity. 

Sterling's journey into the world of cybersecurity has been one of passion, hard work, and dedication. His love for technology dates back to the early days of personal computing, and he has spent over a decade working in the semiconductor industry, keeping up with the latest advancements in the field through tech publications like Byte magazine.

As a cybersecurity professional, Sterling has a broad interest in various methodologies, but his passion lies in counterintelligence. His time in the Army working in electronic warfare tactical systems repair fueled his interest in technology, and he has since become an expert in his field.

In addition to his professional work, Sterling is a tech enthusiast who enjoys building PCs, configuring microcomputers like raspberry pi's, and tinkering with home automation devices. His office is a veritable tech wonderland, filled with gadgets and computer equipment that he loves to experiment with.

Sterling's journey into the cybersecurity industry was not without its challenges. As a newcomer, he faced a barrage of new learning objectives and had to quickly adapt to a new and fast-paced industry. Fortunately, Sterling had the support of CyberUp, which provided him with invaluable resources and a network of fellow apprentices to connect with.

With CyberUp's help, Sterling was able to stay focused and make significant strides in his career. He completed CompTIA Security+ training and embarked on an apprenticeship with Centene, where he was able to apply his skills and knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Today, Sterling is a highly skilled and sought-after cybersecurity professional, with a deep understanding of counterintelligence and a passion for keeping up with the latest advancements in his field. He is an inspiration to others in the industry, and his dedication and hard work are a testament to the incredible opportunities available in the cybersecurity field.

Sterling's journey into the world of cybersecurity is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a passion for technology. His love for the field has driven him to become an expert in the field, and his journey is a testament to the incredible opportunities available in the cybersecurity industry.

                                                                                                                                                                   

In an ever-evolving job market, apprenticeships have emerged as a powerful pathway for individuals to gain practical skills, hands-on experience, and valuable industry connections. Apprenticeships are an alternative form of education that allows participants to learn while they work, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. For those looking to secure a successful career, apprenticeships offer a promising route.

CyberUp has been working alongside industry-leading cybersecurity organizations for the past 6 years. In fact, we were one of the first organizations in the country to launch an apprenticeship program in this field. Since 2017, over 400 new cybersecurity-specific apprenticeship programs have been created across the nation. With over 600,000 unfilled cyber roles, there is an opportunity for anyone interested, although the abundance of programs has caused some confusion in defining the model. As more programs launch, the challenge is conveying the basics clearly while getting employers excited about the benefits.

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a structured training program that enables individuals to learn and develop essential skills while actively participating in the workplace. It combines on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced mentors with classroom-based instruction on relevant topics. Apprenticeships provide a form of "earning while learning," allowing participants to gain practical experience and knowledge in their chosen field. Programs typically range from 1-6 years and are offered in hundreds of occupations.

Key Components of an Apprenticeship

1. On-the-Job Training: This hands-on training is the hallmark of apprenticeships. By working directly with seasoned professionals, apprentices gain invaluable real-world skills and insights they wouldn't get solely from a classroom. For example, a computer programming apprentice may shadow senior coders, assist on projects, and be guided in coding applications themselves.
2. Mentorship: Apprentices are paired with mentor(s) who provide guidance throughout their learning journey. These mentors serve as supervisors, coaches, and role models - offering support, sharing expertise, and giving constructive feedback to help apprentices improve. The ongoing mentor relationships create a nurturing yet challenging environment.
3. Classroom Instruction: In addition to on-the-job learning, apprentices take classroom courses to supplement their practical training. These may be at a college, vocational program, or within the hiring company. Coursework covers industry fundamentals, regulations, technology use, and more. The combination of hands-on and academic learning builds comprehensive understanding.
4. Certifications and Credentials: The successful completion of an apprenticeship program results in industry-recognized certifications and credentials. This validates an apprentice's skills and enhances their career prospects. For example, a machinist apprentice may earn Journeyman status, while a dental assistant would become a Certified Dental Assistant.

Benefits of Apprenticeships

1. Gain Valuable Skills: Apprenticeships provide intensive training and practice in all facets of a profession. The skills gained are transferable and highly useful across one's career. For instance, an accountant apprentice will learn complex regulatory standards as well as client management abilities.
2. Increased Employability: Apprentices gain qualifications and credentials that make them extremely employable. Many earn certifications that set them apart. Additionally, they prove themselves on the job. Over 90% of apprentice program graduates immediately find employment.
3. Earn While You Learn: Apprentices earn wages from day one, allowing them to make money while learning. This removes the financial burden of full-time education. They also gain real workplace experience - a huge advantage over solely classroom-based learning.
4. Set Up for Success: The intensive training and acculturation into a profession sets apprentices up for future success. They build skills gradually and are guided by experts in navigating career pathways. The transition from apprentice to professional role is smooth and natural.

Apprenticeships offer incredible opportunities to launch meaningful, rewarding careers. The earn-while-you-learn model provides a superior education compared to sole classroom learning. Upon completion, apprentices emerge fully prepared and qualified to excel in their chosen profession. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a mid-career professional, an apprenticeship is worth strong consideration.

In our upcoming blog series, we will explore apprenticeship intermediaries - organizations that help facilitate these programs. Stay tuned to learn about the value they provide both apprentices and employers!

David's story is a testament to the fact that old dogs can indeed learn new tricks. With his business background and three degrees - a bachelor's in economics, a master's in business administration, and a master's in accounting - he worked in intelligence analysis for the Army for seven years until he was medically discharged. He then found work as a bookkeeper and accountant for a construction company but was eventually laid off when the company ran into financial difficulties.

Determined to find a recession-proof occupation, David began attending job fairs to explore his options. At one such event, he met our LevelUp coordinator, who introduced him to the CyberUp apprenticeship program. This proved to be a turning point for David, as he had been struggling to find work on his own.

David's hobbies were weightlifting and learning. He spent a lot of his free time studying on Udemy and keeping up with cybersecurity news on YouTube and LinkedIn groups. He soon discovered that online resources could be valuable assets in his quest to learn new skills.

Partnering with CyberUp led to David being hired as a cybersecurity analyst with Centene, but he quickly pivoted to become a cloud engineer. He found his work environment to be supportive and inspiring, with regular check-ins from our apprenticeship coordinator. Although working remotely was a new experience for David, it gave him more time to spend with his wife and to cook during his lunch breaks.

When asked for advice for future apprentices, David emphasized the importance of hitting the ground running and using downtime to learn new skills. He also stressed the value of lifelong learning and expressed his goal of furthering his cybersecurity education and becoming a cloud security architect.

Overall, David's story is a reminder that it's never too late to start over and learn new things. With determination and the right resources, anyone can achieve their goals.