See yourself in cyber

Speaker 1:

We are constantly hearing that there is a shortage of people heading into cyber across Australia. How are we on track for the workforce, and what are some maybe ideas or tips or tricks for students that maybe want to get into cyber?

Speaker 2:

Yeah, I definitely think that there is a part of a shortage. I think there is some sort of shortage there, particularly if we're talking senior security people and high level experience. There is definitely a shortage in that space.

I think the biggest problem is getting people from that entry level space into that area we need them, because the higher part is where that higher skill level is, where we need the most people. Because the demand is definitely there, it's just trying to get that. I think the bridge from education into the industry I think is where we need to do the most work, and there is much more in cyber than just the technical job.

Speaker 1:

Sure.

Speaker 2:

There's more than just being pen testing and there's more than just technical consulting. You've got awareness and cyber education, which you don't need to be overly technical, you just need to be great with people and great communicating some of these risks. As long as you can get that right foundation level stuff, it's much easier.

But I think, yeah, there's definitely a wider array and I think we need to change that whole... You have to be that hacker-hoodie look. But yes, I think if you can build some base knowledge, expand your area of where you're interested in getting in. Don't everyone want to be a hacker. We don't all need to do the pen testers or hackers. There's not that many of those kind of jobs.

But yes, obviously that's the fun part and the cool part that everyone sees and goes, "Oh, I want to be that.", but...

Speaker 1:

Well, it is, but I don't know, I do education and awareness, I like...

Speaker 2:

Which is cool, right?

Speaker 1:

I love that.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, yeah.

Speaker 1:

I get to connect with people and I get to hear stories and tell stories, so I actually find that a really fun part of the job.

Speaker 2:

I do too. That's the combination, because being someone that's highly technical, myself, as well as good at that storytelling and educating, you can definitely-

Speaker 1:

It's a great mix.

Speaker 2:

... sit on both sides of the fence. And I think it's perfect to...

Speaker 1:

Yeah.

Speaker 2:

... not be too particular around that technical space.