Sam Raven

This is what I tell people that ask me how to get into Cyber Security: Every single day I get message from people craving entry into this great field of work. They have been mislead by so many people that tell them there are too many requirements. They are told they have to do X, Y, and Z to be successful, ultimately discouraging them. I have been in the security field for quite some time now. I've been fortunate enough to do work in defensive security, offensive security, GRC, serve as a PCI QSA, founded my own security company that was finally acquired last year, and currently serve as a vCISO. I have been lucky enough to have been on both sides, as an employee and as a business owner. However, all of that is truly not important. What is more important is that I tell you what I'm NOT. I am NOT: super smart great at math able to count in binary a programmer a deep expert in any area My passion for what I do drove me. I was lucky enough to have supportive friends and mentors lead me in the right direction. I studied on my own, googled like crazy, and was always asking what I thought were dumb questions. I got my hands into everything I could so I could learn. When someone asked me what they need to get into Cyber Security, I tell them ambition, drive, communication skills, and the willingness to learn. It IS hard work and isn't for everyone, but if you are willing to learn and put the hard work in, you can be extremely successful in this field. For those seeking to get into this field, ask questions. Be curious. Surround yourself with people smarter than you that will support you. Only you get to decide your future, not anyone else. For those already in Cyber here is my message to you. Being supportive and encouraging can change someone's life entirely for the good. Moments to make a difference don't come by often. Make a difference when they do. #cybersecurity #informationsecurity #infosec #leadershipbyexample