SAINTCON 2024 - Sean Valken-LeDuc - Breaking into Cyber Security

Summary

Sean Vul Luk, a security analyst at OC Tanner, shares his inspiring journey into cybersecurity, transitioning from a non-technical background. Overcoming personal tragedy and career setbacks, he explores the critical role of mentorship, certifications, and persistence. With guidance from a seasoned mentor, he gained essential skills, including Security+, CCNA, and AWS certifications. Through hands-on experience and proactive learning, Sean found success in the cybersecurity field. His message encourages others to embrace change, seek guidance, and never stop learning in a constantly evolving industry.

Takeaways

• 😀 Find a mentor to guide you through your career transition, especially when moving into a field like cybersecurity.
• 😀 Don't let setbacks or challenges deter you. Stay persistent, even if you face rejections or obstacles during your job search.
• 😀 Obtaining certifications, like Security+, is crucial to build your foundational knowledge in cybersecurity.
• 😀 Practical, hands-on experience is as important as certifications. Setting up your own home lab can help you gain practical skills.
• 😀 Transitioning into cybersecurity from a non-technical background is possible, but it requires dedication, persistence, and continuous learning.
• 😀 Networking is essential for career growth. Attending security conferences and engaging with online forums can help you find mentors and opportunities.
• 😀 The cybersecurity field is in high demand with many unfilled positions, making it a promising career path with strong salary prospects.
• 😀 The first job in cybersecurity may not be your dream role, but take advantage of any experience and opportunities to learn.
• 😀 Working hard, being proactive, and asking thoughtful questions can help you stand out in your first job and build credibility.
• 😀 Never stop learning in cybersecurity, as the field is constantly evolving with new threats, technologies, and best practices.

Q & A

What motivated Sean to pursue a career in cybersecurity?

Sean was motivated to pursue a career in cybersecurity after facing a series of personal and professional challenges, including not achieving the financial and professional success he had hoped for with his business degree. The COVID-19 pandemic provided him the opportunity for introspection, where he realized the need for a drastic change and found cybersecurity as a promising field that could provide both financial stability and career fulfillment.

How did Sean's family play a role in his career transition?

Sean's family, particularly his brother, played a crucial role in his career transition. His brother invited him to stay with him during the pandemic and encouraged him to be productive. This support, both emotional and financial, allowed Sean to focus on making a career change, including pursuing cybersecurity as a potential field.

What was the first step Sean took to transition into cybersecurity?

The first step Sean took was finding a mentor in the cybersecurity field. His family friend, Mike Wright, a security expert with 25 years of experience, provided guidance and insight into the industry. Mike introduced Sean to the demand for cybersecurity professionals and advised him on certifications to pursue.

Why is finding a mentor crucial in transitioning to cybersecurity?

Finding a mentor is crucial because it provides guidance and direction from someone who has already navigated the field. A mentor can help with understanding the necessary skills, certifications, and the best ways to break into the industry. In Sean's case, his mentor Mike was instrumental in recommending courses and certifications that helped him build a strong foundation.

What certifications did Sean pursue to build his cybersecurity expertise?

Sean began with the Security+ certification, which provided him with fundamental knowledge in cybersecurity. He then went on to study for and earn his CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification, which focused on networking. Additionally, Sean later earned the CISSP, AWS foundational certifications, and Cisco CyberOps certification to expand his expertise.

How did Sean build hands-on experience in cybersecurity?

Sean built hands-on experience by creating a home lab, where he worked with old routers and switches provided by his mentor, Mike. This allowed him to apply what he learned about networking and cybersecurity in a practical setting. Additionally, Sean took advantage of every opportunity to work on real-world problems, such as a temporary contract role involving ransomware recovery efforts.

What was the significance of the temp job Sean took during his transition?

The temp job was a pivotal moment in Sean's career transition. It was a contract assignment with a healthcare provider that had been hit by a massive ransomware attack. Despite being a newcomer to the field, Sean's Security+ certification was enough to get him hired. This opportunity allowed him to gain valuable experience and exposure to real-world security challenges, leading to an extended contract and eventually more opportunities.

How did Sean's work at OC Tanner contribute to his cybersecurity career?

Sean's work at OC Tanner started in a service desk role but later transitioned to the information security team. His work ethic and willingness to learn helped him stand out. Through proactive learning, asking thoughtful questions, and building relationships, Sean gained the trust of his colleagues and eventually moved into more technical roles within the security team.

What advice does Sean offer to those looking to break into cybersecurity?

Sean advises aspiring cybersecurity professionals to find a mentor, gain relevant certifications, and seek hands-on experience. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, especially when faced with rejections, and encourages individuals to be proactive in their learning and development. Sean also highlights the importance of building relationships and networking in the industry.

How does Sean reflect on his career journey in cybersecurity?

Sean reflects on his career journey with pride, recognizing the challenges and hard work that led him to his current role. He acknowledges the support of his mentor, the growth in his skills, and the sense of financial and professional security that his new career provides. His journey also taught him the importance of self-reflection and taking the time to appreciate progress along the way.