Switching careers into the field of cyber-security has shown a promising trend, exemplified by stories of professionals who have successfully transitioned from various backgrounds into this rapidly growing sector. One remarkable figure is Dr. Leila Powell, who once delved into the mysteries of galaxies as an astrophysicist. In 2015, Dr. Powell decided to pivot her career toward cyber-security, driven by a desire to make a more immediate impact on people’s lives through her work. She expressed that the academic route, while rewarding in terms of intellectual pursuit, presented challenges such as job security and competitive pay. As a result, she became the lead security data scientist at Panaseer, where she assists organizations in identifying gaps in their cyber-security infrastructure.
Dr. Powell is not alone in this career migration; many others are making similar moves, reflecting a pivotal shift in the workforce dynamics of cyber-security. Statistics from the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2) indicate that 39% of new entrants to the cyber-security field come from non-IT roles. This trend underscores the growing recognition that skills acquired in diverse professions can be invaluable in cyber-security, which encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities focused on protecting organizations from cyber threats.
Among those who have transitioned is Calum Baird, who garnered crucial experience over ten years at Police Scotland. His extensive background included roles in digital forensics and cyber-crime investigation, making him well-equipped for his current position as a digital forensics and incident response (DFIR) consultant at Systal Technology Solutions. Baird points out that the evaluative skills he honed in the police force—quickly assessing risks and determining priorities—are essential in the cyber-security realm as well. He believes that while cyber-security incidents may not carry the life-and-death stakes of police work, they can impose significant costs on businesses and disrupt lives.
Furthermore, his experiences illustrate another vital aspect of the profession: the significance of interpersonal skills. The ability to communicate effectively, reassure clients during cyber crises, and articulate complex information can be as crucial as technical acumen. Baird emphasizes that the so-called ‘soft skills’ are sometimes undervalued in the industry but are pivotal in building client relationships, especially when dealing with sensitive situations.
Another inspiring story is that of Rebecca Taylor, currently serving as a threat intelligence knowledge manager at Secureworks. Taylor entered the cyber-security field not through a technical background but rather through roles that required strong organizational and communication skills. Initially working as a personal assistant, she quickly realized the potential for growth within the cyber-security sector and pivoted her career trajectory accordingly. Taylor’s expertise now lies in accurately processing and distilling information relevant to cyber threats, an endeavor that requires critical reading and writing skills cultivated during her studies in English and creative writing.
Taylor’s success reflects the industry’s ongoing efforts to recruit individuals from non-technical backgrounds, with 41% of companies reportedly making an effort to hire such professionals. The emphasis on transferable competencies points to a broader understanding that cyber-security is not solely about technical expertise; rather, it also encompasses a wide array of skills including analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication.
Overall, the multitude of career paths converging into cyber-security reveals a sector ripe with opportunities for individuals willing to learn and adapt. The demand for skilled professionals remains heightened, with ISC2 estimating a need for an additional four million cyber-security workers globally. As the profession continues to evolve, it becomes evident that one does not require a conventional IT background to thrive in this space. Instead, a willingness to embrace continuous learning and leverage diverse experiences can pave the way for a rewarding career in cyber-security.
