Non cyber route into the cyber space

My Non-Cyber Route Into the Cyber Space

By Daisy North, Marketing Executive at CyNam

With nearly three years of experience in the cyber and technology sector working in marketing, I am passionate about driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and breaking down barriers to entry in cybersecurity. Through my work, I aim to highlight the diverse pathways into the industry and inspire the next generation of talent to explore opportunities beyond traditional routes.

Cybersecurity Isn’t Just for Coders

When you think of a career in cybersecurity, what comes to mind? Many people think of coding all day (a bit of a stereotype, I know). A quick online search for “cybersecurity careers” reinforces these ideas, showing technical roles as the most prominent.

But what if I told you that cybersecurity isn’t just for computer science graduates? The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all career path in the cybersecurity sector, and it’s much more diverse than many people realise.

In fact, when I spoke to people in the field, their stories were all unique. Some had computer science degrees, but others didn’t. Some entered the field via apprenticeships, others came from entirely different industries. This got me thinking—why do so many students believe that the only way into cybersecurity is through a STEM degree?

I decided to investigate this and found that while a degree in computer science or cybersecurity is often suggested as a starting point, it’s by no means the only option. According to the (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2023, 47% of professionals in cybersecurity come from non-technical backgrounds. This demonstrates that the industry values skills and passion just as much as formal qualifications.

The Many Roles in Cybersecurity

While roles like penetration testers, security engineers, and CISOs are some of the most talked-about jobs, they don’t represent the entire cybersecurity ecosystem. Behind every successful cybersecurity organisation, there are functional roles in areas like marketing, HR, legal, and management—fields that don’t immediately come to mind when you think about “cyber.”

The cybersecurity sector is a collaborative ecosystem, and every organisation needs people from different departments to function well. Whether it’s running marketing campaigns to build awareness about cyber threats or having HR specialists hire the next generation of talent, these roles are essential to the success of cybersecurity companies.

Passion and Skills Matter as Much as Degrees

Over my time in the industry, I’ve learned that passion and practical skills often matter as much as formal qualifications. A person with a drive to learn, develop new skills, and immerse themselves in the field can find success through different routes, whether that’s through an apprenticeship or by pursuing self-learning and certifications.

For instance, I didn’t study computer science, but I was able to transition into the industry by leveraging my skills in marketing and communication. There are countless stories of individuals who entered cybersecurity from non-technical roles and excelled. What mattered most was their curiosity, determination, and willingness to learn.

Overcoming Barriers

While academic qualifications can open doors, they don’t close others. Internships, certifications, volunteer opportunities, and networking can all help you break into the cybersecurity field.

If you didn’t pursue a traditional academic path, don’t be discouraged. There are plenty of ways to gain the skills needed to succeed in cybersecurity. Many people transition from different fields or develop their expertise through online courses, boot camps, or by participating in hands-on challenges like Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions.

According to the UK Cyber Security Skills in the Labour Market 2023 report, the demand for cybersecurity professionals currently exceeds supply by 11,200 workers per year. This talent shortage means there are numerous opportunities for people to enter the field through alternative routes.

No One “Right” Path

The cybersecurity field offers opportunities for individuals with a variety of skill sets and backgrounds. Whether you’re passionate about technology, problem-solving, leadership, or creativity, there is a place for you in cybersecurity.

Don’t be discouraged if your career path looks different from others. Your unique journey—whether through a traditional degree route, an apprenticeship, or self-directed learning—will contribute to your success in the cybersecurity industry.

The opportunities are there, and with determination and the right skills, you can carve your own path into this exciting and rapidly growing field.