Cybersecurity Insight from Deb Talukdar of Aston University
Wrapping up Cybersecurity Awareness Month here at EUK, we hear from Deb Talukdar, who is currently working towards a master’s degree at Aston University alongside working for IBM.
Why is Cybersecurity Vital in All IT-Related Roles?
Information governance, data protection and more will all shape the future of information technology, but what makes it so vital to businesses of all sizes?
- Almost all the solutions in the market need to be compliant with IT laws around data governance, GDPR laws, data privacy, user consent management and SOC2 compliance, to name a few. That’s why professionals who are well-versed in cyber security terminologies will have a competitive advantage in the job market.
- Cybersecurity is an emerging field, and professionals who are very well-versed in cybersecurity knowledge and experience will play a critical role in helping companies safeguard their IT assets and prevent cyber risks, which cost companies billions of dollars each year.
- Information is vital for companies to gain a competitive advantage, and, as such, cybersec software vendors help companies safeguard and strategically protect their information.
- The industry is growing at a rapid pace each year, and professionals who have a good understanding of cybersecurity technologies will be highly valued.
- Cybersec can help improve trust between companies and users and help build a positive brand image for any company.
Is a Career in Cybersecurity Worth Pursuing?
Cybersecurity is among the fastest-growing industries in the corporate world, but what else can prospective entrants look forward to beyond significant growth opportunities?
- Cybersecurity as a career is promising, and there are two areas to focus on – the business side and the technical side.
- Business-oriented roles such as business analysts and functional consultants work with clients and advise them on the business benefits of cyber security software to make a measurable impact.
- Business role professionals help clients safeguard their IT assets from potential cyberattacks and help companies to manage risks proactively.
- Technical roles involved writing code, debugging, testing, and implementing cybersecurity software to help clients solve their business problems.
- Some C-level roles include chief information officer, chief risk officer and chief compliance officer.
- The most prominent junior roles span business analysts, IT risk analysts, project managers, and programme managers.
- The industry’s salaries can range from around £25,000 at the entry level to £120,000, depending on experience.
What’s the Future of the Industry, and How Might It Look in a Few Years for 15–17-Year-Olds Planning a Career in the Field?
Deb told us, based on experience, what someone hoping to become a cybersecurity professional could expect from the career path.
- An exciting, rewarding and promising career with great progression opportunities.
- For 15–17-year-olds planning a career in the space, they must be really passionate about technology, solving business problems and developing primarily soft skills to work in this field.
- They can choose either a technical or a business route based on their strengths and interests.
- The most important skills to develop would be problem-solving, effective communication, and a structured thinking approach.
What Can Young People Do Today to Prepare Themselves for a Career in Cybersecurity?
We asked Deb what anyone thinking of entering a career in cybersecurity could do right now to ensure they prepare themselves to succeed before even entering employment or formal education on the subject.
- Understand what cybersecurity is and why it is important.
- Understand the risks of not having cybersecurity experts and the business benefits.
- Learn about data privacy, global compliance laws, and current vendors offering cybersecurity solutions.
- Read about technology trends in AI, Machine learning, Web 3.0, and how it delivers business value.
- Learn a bit of programming and project management tools.
- Develop an excellent analytical mindset to solve complex problems.
We’d like to thank Deb for this fantastic insight into what it’s like working in the cybersecurity field today and in the future!
More From This Series
Earlier in Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we heard from Andrew Thompson from Kagool. Take a look at the following:
- Andrew’s insight into careers in cybersecurity
- A list of fantastic cybersecurity resources Andrew compiled for anyone interested in working in the industry
Discover More About EmployabilityUK
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