Cy Says Blog & Podcast

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, John Jones found himself facing a difficult challenge - the transition into the cybersecurity career field without experience. His background consisted of experience in IT Operational Support, Customer Service, and project experience in a healthcare infrastructure. However, his journey took a turn when he discovered CyberUp, an ally that helped him break through the barriers and also provided a structured path to success.

John is an aspiring cybersecurity professional who struggled with the initial difficulty of entering the cybersecurity field, hindered by a lack of experience. This common stumbling block for many aspiring cybersecurity professionals became the drive for finding a program that could bridge the gap and open doors to organizations willing to invest in training new talent.

The turning point for John was CyberUp, a program that served as more than just a stepping stone; it was a catalyst for his growth. CyberUp not only connected him with First Bank, an organization ready to nurture and develop new talent but also provided a structured framework that became instrumental in maintaining focus and setting goals in his cybersecurity career.

As an Information Security Analyst with First Bank, John's favorite project involves testing Insider Threat Management tools. This not only showcases his technical ability but also highlights his creative thinking in enhancing the effectiveness of security measures. Beyond the apprenticeship program, John is focused on furthering his education and professional development. His goals include studying for certifications, exploring different product suites, diving into networking topics, and gaining insights into lean Six Sigma.

One of the persistent challenges in cybersecurity that John noticed is that effective communication is important, especially to those without a technical background. John recognizes this challenge and emphasizes the need to convey the 'why' behind security policies in a way that resonates with non-technical individuals. This skill, he believes, is crucial in making cybersecurity principles understandable and actionable.

While John doesn't have a favorite quote or affirmation, his philosophy in cybersecurity revolves around patience with the learning curve and being humble. John acknowledges that the field is vast and ever-changing, and embracing the constant learning process is key to success. John also advises prospective CyberUp candidates, emphasizing the importance of honing written and verbal communication skills. In cybersecurity, clear articulation of technical concepts is as vital as the technical knowledge itself.

John's apprenticeship experience instilled confidence in his new career and gave him a sense of direction. The collaborative learning environment with fellow apprentices stood out to him as the best part of the experience. The camaraderie and shared growth within the program created a community for John that fueled motivation and mutual support.

Charles Long Jr. is a determined lifelong learner who wanted more in life. Charles started as a Janitor at a local casino however, he knew he wanted more for himself and his family and that is when he decided to pursue a new career in cybersecurity. With some assistance from CyberUp, he dove into the challenge and proved his determination. That's when his adventure with CyberUp kicked off, providing him not just with a roadmap but also with a boost of confidence throughout his apprenticeship program.

According to Charles, CyberUp wasn't just about learning technical skills – it played a crucial role in building up his self-confidence. In the world of cybersecurity, confidence is your secret weapon. For Charles, "Details Matter" is not just a saying – it's a way of life in the cybersecurity realm. It's about that meticulous mindset, the precision, and the undivided attention to detail that makes all the difference.

Of course, Charles didn't skate through his journey without facing challenges. Self-confidence was a bit of a struggle, and visualizing himself in a cybersecurity role was an uncomfortable feeling for him due to his lack of confidence. He constantly questioned himself and wondered if he could even do the job and do it well. But with CyberUp’s assistance offering constant support and assurance, Charles conquered those fears and came out on top.

So, what's the value Charles got from CyberUp? In his own words, "a career." It’s not just about learning the ropes; it's about CyberUp opening doors to a fulfilling career in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. Charles reflects on some of his favorite projects during his apprenticeship with Object Computing. He found joy in working on audits, getting that ISO certification stamp, and diving into various Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) initiatives. As an Associate IT Engineer, he's not just contributing; he's jumpstarting security programs and playing a key role in his company's success.

Moving forward, Charles has his eyes set on continuous learning and hints at potential roles like a forensic analyst or a cybersecurity pro testifying in court. Despite some initial hesitation, Charles is all in for becoming a mentor and contributing to CyberUp's youth program, PowerUp. Public speaking might not be his forte, but his willingness to volunteer and share his experiences shows a genuine commitment to giving back and helping others find their way in the world of cybersecurity.

In a nutshell, Charles Long's journey is more than a success story – it's an inspiration for anyone eyeing a career in cybersecurity. From janitor to Associate IT Engineer, his story is a testament to the transformative power of determination, continuous learning, and a bit of mentorship.

As CyberUp continues to empower individuals like Charles, it's not just changing lives; it's reshaping the entire landscape of cybersecurity.

St. Louis, MO, Aug 21, 2023 - RGA, a global leader in life and health reinsurance, proudly sponsors CyberUp’s Youth Program. CyberUp is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to elevate the cybersecurity workforce by igniting curiosity, developing talent, and transforming career pathways.  This sponsorship and volunteer support seek to revolutionize the landscape of digital safety education by introducing PowerUp, an innovative youth program aimed at equipping elementary and middle school students with essential cybersecurity skills.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and the increase of digital platforms, the need for cybersecurity education has never been more critical. PowerUp, an initiative by CyberUp, is poised to address this pressing need. Designed as a comprehensive and engaging curriculum taught by industry volunteers, PowerUp ignites curiosity in young individuals and helps them navigate the online world confidently and securely.

PowerUp delivers a comprehensive curriculum that provides cybersecurity knowledge and skills to students. Participants will gain insights into fundamental concepts such as creating strong and resilient passwords, identifying and thwarting phishing scams, and adopting best practices for online safety. Furthermore, the program introduces students to the diverse and promising avenues within the cybersecurity industry, opening doors to potential career paths.

One of PowerUp's standout features is that it’s taught by IT/Cybersecurity industry professionals who bring real-world expertise and insights to the educational forefront. PowerUp removes the stress and burden off of the teachers so they don’t have to be the subject matter expert.  Notably, the program is tailored to ensure inclusivity and accessibility, as it does not rely on sophisticated technology. This unique approach enables schools of varying resources to participate, thereby extending the program's reach to the students who need it the most.

"RGA is proud to support the PowerUp program to ensure youth in our community have equitable access and vast opportunities to pursue careers in the cybersecurity sector," said Jasmina Schue, ESG specialist, charitable giving at RGA. "Through our partnership with CyberUp, we hope to bring awareness about digital safety to the forefront and provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the digital world safely and securely."

For more information about RGA and its ongoing initiatives, please visit https://www.rgare.com/.

To learn more about PowerUp program and its transformative impact on youth cybersecurity education, please visit https://wecyberup.org/powerup/.