Creating Cybersecurity Work Experience

Serving as registrar for an organization running online cybersecurity and software development programs opened my eyes to the challenge students faced in gaining the cybersecurity work experience they need to enter the field.  There are effective ways to build skills that require an investment of time and energy, but it can be done while completing a course or hunting for jobs. Here are some tips:

  1. Dig In: Discover your area of interest and ensure you’re aiming for the right position. Cyber Catalyst provides program candidates with the opportunity to complete the World of Work Inventory, also known as WOWI. This inventory offers insights into the areas in which you may be most interested in working.
  2. Training Programs: For those needing upskilling, Cyber Catalyst offers online, instructor-led, asynchronous courses. With a job-skills focus, we provide career development and experiential learning support to cyber-prepared veterans and their family members.
  3. Virtual Labs: Participating in virtual labs and cybersecurity challenges on platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and Cyber Range allow you to practice real-world scenarios and enhance your cyber-attack readiness by improving your red, blue, and purple capabilities.
  4. Open-Source Contributions: Contributing to open-source cybersecurity projects on GitHub demonstrates your initiative and ability to work with a team. Your involvement can also enhance your reputation and provide experiences to add to your resume.
  5. Bug Bounty Programs: Bug bounty programs are a self-directed internship offered by companies like HackerOne and Bugcrowd. Identifying and reporting vulnerabilities can earn you recognition and sometimes monetary rewards, and it is valuable hands-on experience.
  6. Capture The Flag (CTF) Competitions: Join CTF competitions to practice your skills in a competitive environment. These events are often team-based and simulate real-world cybersecurity challenges.
  7. Non-Profits and Small Businesses: Volunteer to help non-profits or small businesses in your area with their cybersecurity needs. Reach out to Cyber Catalyst to see what may be coming in this regard.
  8. Internships: Internships with companies that have a strong cybersecurity presence provide hands-on experience and a chance to learn from professionals. This is a starting point, so keep salary expectations in check. Reach out to Cyber Catalyst for more information.
  9. Build a Home IT Lab: Building your own lab can be an exciting and rewarding project that provides hands-on experience.’ How-to’ details will be in a separate upcoming article.

An effective way to document information, details, and results of your hands-on initiatives is to assemble the data into a portfolio. It may sound like a lot of work, and it is, but the effort you invest at this stage of your career move will facilitate your transition into cybersecurity.