As we know, the cybersecurity industry is as deep as it is wide. There are many paths to choose from, and for many entering the field, knowing what the options are and how you will best serve in that field can be tough. In this edition of VetSec Impact Stories, we hear from another member who felt this “paralysis” in getting started yet thanks to the VetSec community has started to find their place.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background before joining VetSec?
Before joining VetSec, I was in the USMC for over a decade, transitioned out to pursue a college degree, then joined with my state’s national guard to work in one of their cyber missions.
How did you first learn about VetSec, and what motivated you to get involved?
I learned about VetSec through word of mouth by one of its members. I got motivated to get involved because I like the mission and the community and I want to see fellow veterans be successful in whatever path they choose.
What were some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in transitioning to a cybersecurity career before joining VetSec?
There are a lot of different paths and it is difficult to navigate them without the aid of individuals who are experienced in those areas or have a similar background to myself. I knew I enjoyed the work in the cybersecurity field, but I wasn’t quite sure where to go or how to best learn more about the field. Knowing which way to best use my time and resources was a huge hurdle and lead to a little bit of analysis paralysis.
Can you describe your experience with VetSec’s training and mentorship programs? What specific resources or support did you find most valuable?
Yes. I have gone through the FortiNet boot camp and it helped with understanding the more advanced concepts that dictate how the internet actually functions, as well as joining in on the 30-day opportunity to work in the Boot.dev training environment. I am currently participating in the VetSec mentorship program to help myself be a better threat hunter. The specific resources I have found the most valuable so far is the Resume documents, feedback, and workshops.
How has the VetSec community impacted you personally and professionally?
It has provided me with a great community where I can socialize and network both on the personal and professional level. I’ve met some of the other members in person for both work and life functions and I’ve enjoyed every moment of it. Being able to join a weekly social gathering does wonders for my mental health and spiritual health.
Can you share a specific moment or achievement during your time with VetSec that you are particularly proud of?
I’m particularly proud of getting 1st place in VetSecCon CTF for 2024. It was just matter of seconds between the top 3 participants and that was a lot of fun. That event has been a springboard to engage further with them and bond over an experience we all shared.
Where are you currently in your cybersecurity career, and how did VetSec contribute to your success?
I would say I’m still very early in my career, as I have only had job-related experience for about 3 years, in which I have jumped between Cyber Threat Intel, GRC, and Threat Hunting. The successes I’ve had in CTI and Threat Hunting have been because of the sub-groups focused on those two disciplines within the larger VetSec ecosystem.
Reflecting on your journey, how do you think your career and personal growth would have been different without VetSec? What are your future aspirations in the field of cybersecurity?
I think it would not have been as successful as it is now. I also think I wouldn’t have been able to help other veterans- whether they were a VetSec member or not- find the resources and references to best support them. In the future, I look forward to giving back to the community in a way that’s more than just donating money.
What advice would you give to other veterans considering a career in cybersecurity and thinking about joining VetSec?
If you want to have a career in this field, you need to find a community like this one. As Black Hills Infosec says, we are “Stronger Together”.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience with VetSec or a message to the community?
I may not say it much, but I hope that my time spent within the community is because I enjoy all of the colorful characters, backgrounds, and knowledge that have all somehow blended together amazingly well into the melting pot that is VetSec.