Dr Leila Powell, a former astrophysicist, made a career shift to cyber-security in 2015, bringing her unique skills and perspective to the field. As the lead security data scientist at Panaseer, she helps organizations identify and address gaps in their cyber-security controls.
With the demand for cyber-security professionals on the rise, many individuals like Dr Powell are making similar transitions from non-IT roles. According to ISC2, 39% of new employees in the sector come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a variety of skills and experiences to the table.
For those considering a career change, cyber-security offers lucrative opportunities. A survey by Cybershark Recruitment revealed that professionals with one to three years of experience can earn between £40,500 and £58,000 in digital forensics and between £39,500 and £55,000 in threat intelligence.
However, the industry faces a shortage of skilled professionals, with an estimated four million more cyber-security experts needed worldwide. Amanda Finch, CEO of CIISec, emphasizes the importance of transferable skills and encourages organizations to consider candidates from diverse backgrounds.
Individuals like Calum Baird, a former Police Scotland officer turned DFIR consultant, exemplify the value of skills acquired in previous roles. His experience in risk assessment and communication from his time in law enforcement has proven invaluable in his current position at Systal Technology Solutions.
Rebecca Taylor's journey from studying English and creative writing to becoming a threat intelligence knowledge manager at Secureworks showcases how non-technical backgrounds can thrive in cyber-security roles. With the right skills and mindset, individuals from various industries can make a successful transition into this rapidly growing field.
Overall, the cyber-security industry offers a wealth of opportunities for career changers, with high demand for skilled professionals and competitive salaries. By leveraging transferable skills and embracing lifelong learning, individuals can carve out successful and fulfilling careers in this dynamic and essential field.
Unleashing the Power of Threat Detection and Response Technology
In the fast-paced world of cybersecurity, staying ahead of threats is crucial. Meet the expert who is revolutionizing threat detection and response technology at Secureworks. From humble beginnings as a personal assistant to becoming an integral part of the ransomware response team, she has proven that dedication and a thirst for knowledge can lead to success in this ever-evolving field.
With a background in humanities, she brings a unique perspective to her role, using her English and creative writing skills to distill complex information into easily digestible content. While many may think cybersecurity is all about technical jargon and coding, she proves that there is much more to it than meets the eye.
Through her blogs and materials, she educates others on the importance of cybersecurity and the constant threat landscape facing businesses today. By focusing on accuracy and usefulness, she ensures that her work is not only informative but also actionable.
In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, having experts like her on the front lines is essential. Her passion for learning and dedication to her craft make her a valuable asset to the cybersecurity community. So, next time you hear about a cyber threat, remember that there are experts like her working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep us safe.