Digital Edge Series: Breaking Into Cybersecurity Without Experience – Expert Illuminates the Path Forward

Ahmed Olabisi Olajide , a renowned Cybersecurity Analyst and Educator, captivated participants during the Legacy Lab: Digital Edge Series webinar held virtually on October 31, 2024. His presentation, titled “No Experience? No Problem: The Ultimate Beginners Guide to Breaking Into Cybersecurity,” provided an inspiring and practical roadmap for individuals eager to launch their cybersecurity careers, even without prior experience.

Olabisi opened his session by addressing a common misconception that cybersecurity is an exclusive domain reserved for seasoned IT professionals. Instead, he emphasized its accessibility, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds who are passionate about learning and innovation. “Cybersecurity is one of the few fields where curiosity, resilience, and self-driven learning can open doors, regardless of where you start,” he remarked.
Throughout his talk, Olabisi delved into the core principles of cybersecurity, explaining foundational concepts such as information security, risk assessment, and threat modeling. His engaging anecdotes and relatable analogies made complex topics approachable, reinforcing the idea that anyone with determination and the right resources could succeed in the field.

Olabisi emphasized the significance of hands-on experience in cybersecurity, suggesting beginner-friendly tools such as Splunk, Nessus, and VirtualBox for practical learning. He encouraged attendees to utilize free or affordable educational platforms, highlighting YouTube channels like HackerSploit, FreeCodeCamp, Josh Madakor, and Professor Messer as excellent resources. Additionally, he recommended exploring programs like ISC2’s entry-level certification training.
“Building practical skills and earning certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CompTIA A+, or Microsoft’s AZ-900 can help you stand out in today’s competitive job market,” he explained.

Acknowledging the challenges newcomers face, Olabisi shared strategies to overcome them. He stressed the importance of highlighting relevant technologies and tools on resumes, such as Splunk, Nessus, and VirtualBox, to showcase technical proficiency. He also advised candidates to demonstrate their hands-on experience by showcasing personal projects on GitHub. “Employers value candidates who are proactive, resourceful, and passionate about cybersecurity. Having projects on GitHub not only shows your technical skills but also builds trust with employers, demonstrating that you have practical experience,” he explained. Olabisi further shared a sample portfolio page design for presenting projects effectively.

Olabisi also shed light on the rewarding nature of cybersecurity careers, describing the field as dynamic, impactful, and full of opportunities for growth. He highlighted the global demand for skilled professionals and the flexibility of roles, many of which offer remote work and competitive salaries. “Cybersecurity is not just a job—it’s a mission to protect and innovate in our interconnected world,” he said.

The session touched on the evolving threat landscape, including challenges like ransomware and AI-powered attacks, and how newcomers could prepare for these complexities through continuous learning. Olabisi’s message was clear: the cybersecurity industry thrives on adaptability and innovation, qualities that aspiring professionals must cultivate to succeed.

Concluding his presentation, Olabisi left participants with a powerful call to action. He urged them to embrace the learning journey, connect with online communities, and collaborate with like-minded individuals. “Cybersecurity is a team effort,” he emphasized. “Together, we can overcome challenges and build a safer digital future.”

The Digital Edge Series webinar was a testament to Olabisi’s ability to demystify cybersecurity for beginners while inspiring confidence and action. Participants left the session equipped with valuable insights and actionable steps to start their cybersecurity careers, proving that with determination and the right guidance, no barrier is insurmountable.