With a bit of encouragement and support, whether from family or an online community, we can achieve goals we didn’t even know we had. In this edition of VetSec Impact Stories, Mason shares with us how a gentle nudge from his sister lead him to pursue cybersecurity as a post-Navy career. With the help of VetSec, he now knows about the many titles and roles within this field and has access to training and mentors for most of them.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background before joining VetSec?
My name is Mason S. I was a Special Boat Operator in the Navy for 10 years where I deployed three times out of Coronado, CA. I joined the Navy after following my sister who enlisted as an IT. Although I never went with an IT rating she convinced me that a career in Information Technology and specifically security would be a career worth pursuing once I separated from active duty service. After doing some more research I knew it was for me. I wanted to continue challenging work that encouraged me to grow everyday professionally.
How did you first learn about VetSec, and what motivated you to get involved?
I learned about VetSec on my own doing research for help that support veterans getting into Cybersecurity.
What were some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in transitioning to a cybersecurity career before joining VetSec?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was figuring out how I would get my way into cybersecurity and what I wanted to do to start that journey. Cybersecurity is a broad term that has many roles within in that someone can explore. I am still overcoming that challenge today.
Can you describe your experience with VetSec’s training and mentorship programs?
I have benefited from the Google Cybersecurity Program which helped open my horizons to different types of work someone can do in cybersecurity and experience some hands-on work through training that gave me some foundational exposure to different roles like Incident Response, GRC, and Security analyst.
What specific resources or support did you find most valuable?
One of the biggest elements of VetSec that has helped me is the network of veterans who are pursing/in the same industry as you. I have learned so much through virtual meet ups and events that it is helping overcome my doubts on “what is next” on my journey in cybersecurity. It also gives me an opportunity to give back to those who may have helped me or those who are curious about the work that I do.
How has the VetSec community impacted you personally and professionally?
VetSec brings a sense of community that helps encourage action and motivates me to achieve my goals and then find another one. I have also benefited from resume help which has helped me fine tune my resume and mold into a solid template I can use with effective impact when submitting applications.
Can you share a specific moment or achievement during your time with VetSec that you are particularly proud of?
Finishing my Google Cybersecurity Certificate which would have cost me hundreds of dollars had it not been for VetSec felt like a big milestone in my journey when first starting out. I was grateful and felt a great sense of accomplishment.
Where are you currently in your cybersecurity career, and how did VetSec contribute to your success?
I am currently a Cloud Engineer and get to wear many different hats at work which include security work. VetSec has encouraged me to continue bettering myself at work and never settle for what is comfortable. There is always someone you can find in VetSec that will motivate you to grow in your professional life.
Reflecting on your journey, how do you think your career and personal growth would have been different without VetSec?
I don’t think I would have had the direction I know to follow without VetSec and the network that comes with the community. I learn about new roles every week meeting new people in the community.
What are your future aspirations in the field of cybersecurity?
I hope to architect security solutions for customers by growing in my current role as a Cloud Engineer and building security resources.
What advice would you give to other veterans considering a career in cybersecurity and thinking about joining VetSec?
This is not a short road and it is not an easy one to follow. But we as veterans, have the tools like the VetSec community and the mentality to carry on and build a rewarding career in cybersecurity. You have the ability to put in the work and you know that because you experienced hard work in the military. You’ll be surprised by yourself when you see how much you can achieve in this industry with that hard work mindset.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience with VetSec or a message to the community?
I appreciate everything this community has been and continues to grow into. Always offer a helping hand to each other because one day you might be the one who needs a helping hand to reach for.