--- title: Cy Says Blog | Blog description: Blog | Cy Says Blog is a place where industry professionals, STEM enthusiasts, and career seekers can find relevant and timely news and content about cybersecurity. --- [![](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 Featured Success Stories 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. Posts about: ## Blog ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/3-Oct-30-2026-06-51-06-4566-PM.png) [Blog,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) [Latest News,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/latest-news) [Skills-Based Hiring](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/skills-based-hiring) ### [Cyber-Ready Community Series: Part 2 – The Supply Gap: Why the Talent Pipeline Is About to Shrink](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/cyber-ready-community-part-2-supply-gap) Oct 30, 2026, 1:51:43 PM In Part 1 of this series, we addressed [**The Broken Handoff**](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/cyber-ready-community-part-1-broken-handoff)**,** the breakdown in communication between training programs and employers that leaves qualified candidates... [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/cyber-ready-community-part-2-supply-gap) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/2-Oct-28-2026-08-48-51-6550-PM.png) [Blog,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) [Latest News,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/latest-news) [Skills-Based Hiring](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/skills-based-hiring) ### [Cyber-Ready Community Series: Part 1 – The Broken Handoff: When "Job-Ready" Gets Lost in Translation](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/cyber-ready-community-part-1-broken-handoff) Oct 28, 2026, 4:00:23 PM Cybersecurity is a team sport, but education and employers are often working from different playbooks. Despite major investments in training and a deep pool of motivated candidates, the handoff between learning and hiring remains broken. Without a shared definition of what “job-ready” means, critical information gets lost in translation, and capable candidates struggle to cross the finish line. This post kicks off our four-part series dedicated to creating a shared connection point between these separate operational loops. Today, we explore how disconnected systems can limit even the most well-intentioned advisory boards, and how we can move beyond casual, spoken feedback toward a clear, standardized blueprint that connects training to hiring. ### The Scale of the Training Machine The sheer volume of our national training machinery is staggering. Today, the cybersecurity training ecosystem spans over 500 academic institutions, anchored by 470 elite NSA-designated centers. Running alongside higher education is a network of over 100 intensive tech bootcamps and more than 730 Registered Apprenticeship programs serving over 43,000 active apprentices nationwide. When you pull the levers on all of these entities combined, this machine pumps an estimated 60,000 to 75,000 fresh candidates into the market every single year. It’s driven by over 38,000 traditional university grads paired with tens of thousands of accelerated bootcamp and apprenticeship finishers. At the heart of almost every one of these 1,300+ diverse programs sits a localized, internal advisory board. Filled with dedicated CISOs, directors, and senior engineers who volunteer their time, these boards aim to ensure programs create the best possible local talent. This involvement is a beautiful thing. Without these professionals showing up, training providers would be operating completely in the dark. In fact, we see firsthand that organizations often find the most success within their own board circles. It is incredibly common for a board member's company to hire directly from the program they support. This is a massive win for those specific individuals, and it proves that close collaboration works. The systemic challenge, however, is expanding that traction beyond the board itself. Because these groups naturally focus on immediate, local relationships, they inadvertently build isolated pockets of readiness. A candidate might be perfectly aligned with one board member's unique environment, but find themselves speaking a different language when they apply to the employer next door. Without a broader standard, we accidentally trade market-wide scalability for highly localized success stories. ### Two Systems, Two Realities To understand why this disconnect is so systemic, we have to look at the vastly different realities shaping both sides of the table. They aren’t just miscommunicating; they are operating under entirely different, non-negotiable industry rules. For employers, cybersecurity is a continuous risk-management function. Every hiring decision is weighed against corporate liability, cyber insurance requirements, and strict regulatory compliance. Because of this high-stakes pressure, they naturally seek a "Day One" plug-and-play analyst who knows their specific tool stack to bypass the dangerous learning-curve window. Educators and training providers, on the other hand, are governed by rigid operational guardrails, whether that means strict academic accreditation mandates or specific workforce funding metrics. They cannot pivot course structures on a dime to match an individual employer's tool preference; updating a curriculum often requires navigating a complex web of bureaucratic or regulatory approvals. To scale and sustain their programs, they must focus on foundational concepts and standardized outcomes that meet their specific compliance and funding requirements. While every piece of advice from these security leaders is entirely accurate, trying to patch competing, localized feedback together dilutes the curriculum. It forces educators to chase a moving target, creating a frustrating loop: programs build exactly what they think was requested, candidates study tirelessly, yet employers are still left with resumes that don't fit. To fix this "telephone game," we don't need to dissolve advisory boards—we just need to replace casual, subjective conversations with objective, shared standards. ### Let's Three Steps to Bridge the Divide **1. Shift from Opinions to Frameworks** Instead of asking employers what skills they think they might need next year, advisory groups need to speak a common language. We must shift the conversation away from individual company wish lists and anchor it to established industry frameworks like NIST/NICE, CMMC, or CIS Controls. Mapping curriculum to these recognized national work roles replaces subjective corporate opinions with objective skills maps that every security leader respects and understands. **2. Standardize Around Regional Market Demands** A successful talent pipeline must reflect the unique economic makeup of its community. Regional employers should use these national frameworks to collectively define a shared, baseline standard for what "entry-level" looks like in their specific market. This allows training providers to build programs around the regional requirements that apply to 80% of local jobs, rather than chasing the 20% of niche requirements that vary wildly from company to company. **3. Share Resources Across Pathways** The fragmentation gets worse when traditional higher education and non-traditional training programs operate in complete isolation. When universities, community colleges, and workforce nonprofits actively share their tools, cyber ranges, and hands-on simulation environments, everyone wins. Pooling these resources eliminates unnecessary competition for employer attention and gives employers a larger, more consistently prepared talent pool to choose from. Mentorship from industry professionals is the lifeblood of workforce development. But if we want to stop the cycle of mismatched expectations, we have to upgrade how we communicate. We have to give educators a clear blueprint instead of a game of telephone. Continue reading Part 2: The Supply Gap, where we explore the looming talent shortage facing the cybersecurity industry. Fixing the broken handoff between training and hiring will take employers, funders, and volunteers working together to build a stronger cyber talent pipeline. **Ready to help build a cyber-ready community?** [**Get Involved with CyberUp**](https://cta-service-cms2.hubspot.com/web-interactives/public/v1/track/click?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLhfiEdwyM6nSkQlqm4HLoua%2BVAjc106K7jGW0ftS05VPzg12zlMDmAtiUBGr2SDrE75E%2FVf3yzTyY2z33VIiJRI%2FpEUNu04AJZ7JfnooKJYZ%2Bchaq5%2FQewibUL3gbdCTBL6sr4AB6HqZug4QkkGNzKjZMcbRj1YuJweaEnhsdBPM9X8O%2BOUX9JAqGjtiCJVT4%2B1gDh1DSUCetQsLbR3fK3SQ%3D%3D&portalId=21596173) [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/cyber-ready-community-part-1-broken-handoff) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/1-Oct-28-2026-07-39-33-6959-PM.png) [Blog,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) [Skills-Based Hiring](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/skills-based-hiring) ### [Cyber-Ready Community Series: Introduction](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/cyber-ready-community-series-introduction) Oct 28, 2026, 3:22:16 PM ### **Our Future Cyber Talent Pipeline is in Serious Trouble** Before I dive into the data, I think it is worth sharing why this hits so close to home for me. If you know the team at CyberUp or me, you know we live and breathe this work from our home base in St. Louis. Eight years ago, we launched the third Cybersecurity Analyst Registered Apprenticeship program in the country. Since then, we have had a front-row seat to the whole machine. We see the educators building the curriculum, the companies doing the hiring, and the public and private funders cutting the checks. It has been a wild roller coaster, but I am incredibly proud of what our alumni have achieved. Recently, I spent a few days in Philadelphia at the NICE Conference. I look forward to it every year because it is really the operational heartbeat of cyber education in the United States. It is a room full of the most passionate minds you will ever meet, and everyone is grinding away to build a talent pipeline for our field. ### Bridging But this year, something felt off. Looking at the numbers and listening to colleagues, I kept coming back to one glaring conclusion. Our future cyber talent pipeline is in serious trouble. Over the years, the industry told us candidates needed better critical thinking, stronger digital literacy, and deep hands-on skills. The ecosystem stepped up beautifully. We saw massive investments in training, the rise of great capture-the-flag events like the National Cyber League, innovative training labs like the AZ Cyber Initiative, and fully functioning campus Security Operations Centers at schools like Maryville University. Everyone was trying to make sure students were ready on day one. Most of this was guided by industry pros volunteering on college advisory groups or nonprofit boards. That input is valuable, but it also creates a massive blind spot. Security pros tend to define what it means to be job-ready through the lens of their own career path, their own company, and their own current tech stack. One employer wants Security Operations Center experience, another wants compliance, and the next person wants cloud, artificial intelligence, or incident response. Nobody is wrong, but together, it creates a totally fragmented picture of what the market actually expects. That fragmentation makes it almost impossible for educators and training providers to build clear, scalable pathways. The issues are too big to dump into a single post, so I am breaking this down into a four-part series. We need to step back, look at the machinery of how we train and hire, and fix the cracks before the pipeline runs dry. ### Here is where we are going over the next four weeks. 1. **The Echo Chamber** Training providers are constantly forced to guess what companies actually need. We are building incredible labs, but we are often doing it based on a game of telephone. Educators and candidates are left guessing which skills will actually get them a job. 2. **The Supply Gap** We are about to hit a massive talent crunch. A drop in consumer confidence is already causing computer science enrollments to slide nationwide. When you combine that with a looming overhaul in government funding models, the entry-level talent pool is about to shrink fast. 3. **The Last Mile** There are hundreds of thousands of capable people sitting on the sidelines right now trying to break into cyber. We do not have a supply problem, we have a completion problem. We do not need more multi-year academic tracks. We need to invest in the last mile, which means the specific, employer-aligned skills that move someone from trained to hired. 4. **The Ecosystem Blueprint** We have to say the quiet part out loud and confront our internal hiring biases. We have thousands of capable people looking for work, and a massive market of small businesses that desperately need cyber readiness. I will lay out a concrete blueprint to connect these dots, challenge broken human resources filters, and move past passive advisory boards. ### Let's Fix the Machine The candidates standing on the sidelines have already proven their grit. They have done the heavy lifting, changed their life trajectories, and mastered the technical fundamentals. They are standing at the 10-yard line, ready to go. It is time to stop treating the skills gap like some unsolvable mystery. We need to look honestly at where the system is breaking down, because fixing it requires all of us. We need companies ready to hire differently, funders willing to anchor the community defense, and practitioners dedicated to mentoring the next generation. This is just the beginning. Continue reading **[Part 1: The Broken Handoff: When “Job-Ready” Gets Lost in Translation](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/cyber-ready-community-part-1-broken-handoff)**, where we explore the disconnect between cybersecurity training and hiring. Ready to take an active role in building a cyber-ready community? Explore CyberUp's pathways for employers, funders, and volunteers. [**Get Involved with CyberUp**](https://cta-service-cms2.hubspot.com/web-interactives/public/v1/track/click?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLhfiEdwyM6nSkQlqm4HLoua%2BVAjc106K7jGW0ftS05VPzg12zlMDmAtiUBGr2SDrE75E%2FVf3yzTyY2z33VIiJRI%2FpEUNu04AJZ7JfnooKJYZ%2Bchaq5%2FQewibUL3gbdCTBL6sr4AB6HqZug4QkkGNzKjZMcbRj1YuJweaEnhsdBPM9X8O%2BOUX9JAqGjtiCJVT4%2B1gDh1DSUCetQsLbR3fK3SQ%3D%3D&portalId=21596173) [Tony Bryan](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/tony-bryan) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/cyber-ready-community-series-introduction) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/Jessica%20Lee%20Success%20Story%20Graphic.png) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [Blog](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) ### [Apprentice Success Story: Jessica Lee](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-jessica-lee) May 19, 2026, 3:29:15 PM # From New Tools to New Confidence: Jessica Lee's Cybersecurity Journey When Jessica Lee began her apprenticeship with CyberUp, she was stepping into a new professional environment with unfamiliar tools, terminology, and expectations. In her apprenticeship role, she started learning how analysts review information, respond to customer needs, and investigate security activity. The work required her to process a lot of new information quickly. Jessica had to become familiar with cybersecurity language, internal tools, and the details that go into understanding tickets. Instead of backing away from the challenge, she focused on learning, applying feedback, and improving over time. ### Learning Through Real-World Experience During the first few months of her apprenticeship, Jessica began building the core skills needed to understand the work of a cybersecurity analyst. She strengthened her ability to analyze data, read and process information, understand customer needs, and become more familiar with cybersecurity terminology. One of the most impactful parts of her experience was learning how to work within professional cybersecurity systems and processes. Through that work, Jessica gained a better understanding of log sources, IPS, customer needs, and host and user investigations. As she worked through tickets, she practiced analyzing information, seeking clarification, and applying feedback from engineers. Over time, that repetition helped Jessica connect the dots between what she was learning and how the work applied in practice. Each ticket gave her another opportunity to review information more carefully, strengthen her investigation skills, and build confidence in the process. At first, adjusting to new programs and processes felt intimidating. Jessica had to adjust to new tools, company-specific terminology, and the expectations of working inside a cybersecurity company. Instead of letting that uncertainty stop her, she used it as a reason to keep learning. With guidance from her team, she worked through challenges and continued improving. ### Building Confidence Through Support and Persistence Jessica’s apprenticeship was not only about technical growth. It was also about building confidence in a professional cybersecurity environment. As she continued learning, Jessica became more comfortable explaining her work, helping others, and contributing to her team. She developed stronger problem-solving skills and learned how to stay open-minded when facing challenges. Feedback from supervisors and mentors helped her identify areas for improvement, and she used that guidance to keep growing. Her team environment also played an important role in her experience. Jessica built strong relationships with team members and engineers, and she felt welcomed and supported throughout her apprenticeship. That sense of community helped her stay engaged as she continued learning and taking on new responsibilities. CyberUp also provided support along the way. During her check-ins, Syanne Fontanilla, CyberUp’s Apprenticeship and Alumni Coordinator, encouraged Jessica to reflect on her progress and recognize how much she had accomplished since beginning the apprenticeship. ### Growing into a Security Analyst By the end of her apprenticeship, Jessica’s role and responsibilities had evolved. She was gaining confidence in explaining her work, helping others, strengthening her skills, and meeting the expectations of her role. That growth led to an important career milestone: Jessica completed her apprenticeship and accepted a full-time role as a security analyst. For Jessica, the transition from intern to security analyst marked an important step forward in her cybersecurity career. It reflected the skills she built, the feedback she applied, and the persistence she showed as she worked through new tools, terminology, and expectations. Jessica is especially proud of the certifications and assessments she passed during her journey, including earning her Security+ certification. Those accomplishments reflected what she had learned and her commitment to continuing her education. Looking back, Jessica described the experience as impactful. The apprenticeship gave her a clearer understanding of cybersecurity work and helped her recognize the progress she had made since starting the program. ### Continuing to Build Toward the Future Jessica’s cybersecurity journey continues with a strong foundation. After completing her apprenticeship, she shared that she plans to keep learning and continue pursuing additional certifications as she grows in her role. Her experience gave her more than technical knowledge. It helped her build confidence, apply feedback, strengthen her problem-solving skills, and better understand the day-to-day work of cybersecurity analysts. ### Advice for Future Apprentices Jessica’s advice to future apprentices is simple and honest:         “Push through the challenges and enjoy the journey.” That advice reflects the reality of starting a new career path. There will be new terminology to learn, tools that take time to understand, and moments when the next step feels uncertain. But Jessica’s experience shows that those moments are part of the process. By staying engaged, applying feedback, and continuing to learn, she turned uncertainty into confidence and an apprenticeship into a full-time cybersecurity career. --- Jessica’s apprenticeship shows how much growth can happen when someone has the opportunity to learn on the job, receive support, and keep improving through each new challenge. Congratulations, Jessica. Your hard work and persistence helped you take an important step forward in your cybersecurity career, and we’re proud to share your story. --- ### **Ready to Build a Stronger Cybersecurity Workforce?** If you're an employer looking for driven, hands-on cybersecurity talent like Jessica, **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.     [Cindy Eller](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/cindy-eller) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-jessica-lee) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/Apprentice%20Success%20Story.png) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [Blog](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) ### [Apprentice Success Story: Ally Lynch](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-ally-lynch) Mar 5, 2026, 10:44:13 AM # Learning, Leading, and Listening: Ally Lynch's Apprenticeship Journey When Ally Lynch stepped into her cybersecurity apprenticeship through CyberUp, she knew she was walking into a brand new world. She had moved to North Carolina, shifted away from more manual work, and joined a field where challenges never really stop. Instead of being intimidated, she treated each new task as a puzzle to solve. Over the course of the year, that mindset helped her grow into someone her team now turns to for guidance and support. From building canvas apps to tracking cybersecurity metrics, Ally’s work has been both technical and people-centered. She has learned how to manage complex projects, navigate busy seasons, and stay steady after unexpected life events. Along the way, she discovered that growth is not just about skills on a resume. It is also about how you show up for others and how they show up for you.   ### From First Learner to Trusted Mentor One of Ally’s proudest accomplishments was becoming the first person on her team to dive into the Canvas app assessment. Self-guided learning laid the foundation for everything that came next. As the project grew, new teammates joined and needed help ramping up on canvas apps. Because she had been there from the beginning, Ally was able to mentor them and troubleshoot their questions. She shifted from being the newest learner to someone others looked to for direction. That experience showed her that expertise can come from curiosity and persistence, not just years of experience. Ally also found real joy in working with coworkers from different backgrounds and personalities. Every teammate brought a different style, pace, and way of thinking. Learning how to collaborate with so many types of people became a major growth moment for her. It helped turn the workplace into a community where she felt like she truly belonged. Her day to day work spans more than one project at a time. She helps collect cybersecurity metrics every quarter and is working with a coworker to automate the data collection process. Many of the projects in her department are ongoing, and some will never have a clean finish line because the data needs change all the time. That long term nature has pushed her to think like a builder, not just a box checker, especially as she begins building out Power BI dashboards. ### Balancing Workload, Time, and Confidence One of the toughest parts of Ally’s apprenticeship has been learning how to manage her time. Her work involves several long-term projects, ongoing support requests, and busy periods when the workload grows fast. It took time to figure out how to organize her days, protect space for deep work, and still be available when others needed help. Practicing those habits every day has made a noticeable difference in how she feels at work. Daily standups and regular check-ins with her team have also helped her stay grounded. Ally feels well supported by her colleagues and manager, who give her room to ask questions and share updates. At times, she has felt overwhelmed, especially when projects pile up or timelines stretch longer than expected. Yet she continues to learn from those moments instead of backing away from them. Like many people in tech, Ally has wrestled with imposter syndrome. Even with strong performance and positive feedback, it can be easy to doubt your place in the room. Constructive feedback from her manager helped her see her strengths more clearly and identify specific ways to grow. She has been intentionally speaking up more in meetings, sharing her ideas, and reminding herself that her perspective matters. Life outside of work has brought its own challenges. After a car accident during a vacation that totaled her car, Ally faced not only physical recovery but also the mental and emotional impact of getting back on the road. Her manager responded with understanding and gave her the time she needed to focus on healing. Conversations with Syanne from CyberUp offered extra empathy and space to process what happened. That support reinforced the idea that a healthy work culture cares about the whole person, not just their output. ### Building a Future Through Learning and Support Throughout her apprenticeship, Ally has enjoyed the daily challenges that come with working in cybersecurity. Her role is more cybersecurity adjacent than directly offensive or defensive, yet she still feels connected to a larger mission. She works with data that supports the cybersecurity team, and solving problems in that space feels meaningful and rewarding. Knowing that her work ties into the bigger picture of protecting the organization keeps her motivated. Ally is also thinking ahead about where her career might go next. She appreciates her current position and feels like she is still learning and being challenged every day. She plans to request the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification and sees that as one way to deepen her technical foundation. At the same time, she is curious about shifting into software development inside the company so she can use more of her coding skills, especially Python, and see what that world looks like up close. Taking care of herself has become an important part of her professional growth. Ally has learned the value of sticking to a schedule, communicating clearly with her boss, and taking breaks throughout the day. After transitioning from a more physically demanding job, she is now in a role that gives her room to focus on long-term health and happiness. That balance has helped her see a future in tech that feels sustainable. She also understands how important it is to stay informed in a fast-moving industry. Ally listens to podcasts, reads blogs, and explores resources shared through CyberUp emails and alumni portals to keep up with trends like artificial intelligence. She knows that staying curious about what is happening in the world will help her remain relevant and confident in her career. Outside of work, she makes time for hobbies and even volunteers to plant trees in a national forest, which reflects her desire to contribute beyond her desk. Looking back, Ally sees that the most valuable lesson from her apprenticeship is the power of mutual support. She has learned how to step into more of a project management role while remaining someone others can trust for guidance. At the same time, she has allowed herself to receive help, whether through mentorship, team check-ins, or understanding after a difficult life event. Her advice to new apprentices is simple. Be patient with the training process, remember that your contributions matter even when you are still learning, build strong time management skills early, and look for chances to connect so you can grow together.   --- At CyberUp, we believe the cybersecurity workforce grows stronger when people are given the chance to learn, contribute, and grow into leaders. Ally’s journey shows what can happen when curiosity, persistence, and support come together. From tackling new technical challenges to mentoring teammates, she’s built skills that make a real impact on her team and organization. Congratulations, Ally. We’re proud to have you in the CyberUp community and look forward to seeing where your career takes you next. --- ### **Ready to Build a Stronger Cybersecurity Workforce?** If you're an employer looking for driven, hands-on cybersecurity talent like Vermele, **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.     [Ian Strate](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/ian-strate) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-ally-lynch) ![Alexander Beat, LevelUp Training & Apprenticeship Alumni](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/LevelUp%20Success%20Story%20Alex%20Beat.png) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [Blog](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) ### [Apprentice Success Story: Alexander Beat](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-alexander-beat) Nov 19, 2025, 2:16:40 PM # 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](https://www.linkedin.com/company/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.     [Ian Strate](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/ian-strate) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-alexander-beat) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/JermaineBuckels_SuccessStoryImage.png) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [Blog](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) ### [Apprentice Success Story: Jermaine Buckels](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-jermaine-buckels) Aug 5, 2025, 12:13:04 PM ## **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.     [Ian Strate](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/ian-strate) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-jermaine-buckels) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/MiguelHurtado_SuccessStoryGraphic.png) [apprenticeship,](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/apprenticeship) [Blog](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) ### [Apprentice Success Story: Miguel Hurtado](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-miguel-hurtado) Jul 10, 2025, 1:17:57 PM ## **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.** [Ian Strate](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/ian-strate) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-miguel-hurtado) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/1-Jan-31-2025-03-28-40-3378-PM.png) [Blog](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) ### [Apprentice Success Story: Maduabuchi Nwankwo](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-maduabuchi-nwankwo) Jan 31, 2025, 9:31:42 AM ### **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.** [Ian Strate](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/ian-strate) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-maduabuchi-nwankwo) ![](https://news.wecyberup.org/hubfs/1-Dec-03-2024-05-02-08-4659-PM.png) [Blog](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) ### [Apprentice Success Story: Elliott Thompson](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-elliott-thompson2) Dec 3, 2024, 11:04:40 AM **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. [Ian Strate](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/author/ian-strate) [Read More](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/apprentice-success-story-elliott-thompson2) [1](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog) [2](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog/page/2) [3](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog/page/3) [4](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog/page/4) [5](https://news.wecyberup.org/cy-says-blog/tag/blog/page/5) #### 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=)