From Fear to Firewalls: Real-Life Stories of Cybersecurity Career Pivots
Switching careers is never easy. Whether driven by a desire for new challenges, better job security, or personal growth, career changes often bring uncertainty and doubt.
However, cybersecurity is rapidly becoming a go-to field for individuals seeking a fresh start. But what does it take to venture into cybersecurity without prior experience?
Here are three inspiring stories of individuals who made the leap, each offering unique insights and lessons learned from their transitions into this dynamic field.
Jamie Washington: A Healthcare Veteran Embracing Cybersecurity
After spending 20 years as a Respiratory Therapist, Jamie Washington decided it was time for a change. Cybersecurity caught her attention, thanks to its promising growth and opportunities.
I spent two decades in healthcare, and after a lot of research, I decided to move into cybersecurity, Jamie explains.
For Jamie, the program’s hands-on labs were essential to her learning process. The lab environment allowed me to gain practical experience, which is crucial for someone like me who learns by doing.
With this new skill set, Jamie feels ready to embark on the next phase of her career in the fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Kristen Sharp: From Athlete to Cybersecurity Analyst
Kristen Sharp spent her life excelling on the basketball court. Now, with her strong discipline and perseverance, she’s bringing that same focus to cybersecurity. Despite initial doubts, Kristen soon realized her sports experience—teamwork, quick thinking, and resilience—would serve her well in this field.
The hands-on labs and flexible structure exceeded my expectations. The program gave me the confidence to make this leap, just like I’ve done countless times in sports, Kristen says.
Her story shows that the skills developed in one field can seamlessly transfer to another, proving that going from court to code can be both possible and rewarding.
Gideon Nelson: From Product Safety to Cybersecurity
Gideon Nelson spent over a decade in quality control, ensuring safety across the pharmaceutical and food industries. His expertise in process validation and risk assessment led him to a new challenge: cybersecurity.
The program provided me with the right tools and foundation to confidently launch my cybersecurity career, Gideon shares.
With a strong recommendation for the program, Gideon’s journey emphasizes how expertise in safety can naturally transition to securing digital environments.