My Journey into Cybersecurity: From the Army to CC Certification

nnCareer changing is an important part of how the cybersecurity professionnis addressing the global workforce and skills gaps. Grigorios Malamis,nCC, tells us of his experience transferring his skills and experiencenfrom the military to a civilian cybersecurity role.nn

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For 14 years, I was deeply embedded in the Hellenic Army’s structurednenvironment. But, following this, a budding interest in cybersecurity tooknhold and, by 2023, my interest had blossomed into a full-fledged Master’sndegree.

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nPrior to my foray into cybersecurity, the Army had honed my skills innstrategy and discipline. Transitioning from the military world to thendigital domain of cybersecurity might seem like a stretch to some. But fornme, it felt like a tempered progression. Both demand a certain level ofnstrategy and proactivity.n

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nA Bit Too Soon for CISSPn

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nIn my exploration of the cybersecurity landscape, I was greeted with anplethora of certification options. My inclination towards understanding risknmanagement and business continuity drew me to the CISSP certification, butnthe prerequisites eluded me. However, a timely discovery led me to thenCertified in Cybersecurity (CC) qualification from ISC2. Given its relevancen(and the absence of a fee), I warmly embraced the opportunity to pursue it.n

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nThe experience of undergoing the CC certification was a balanced mix ofnchallenging and enlightening. I was introduced to a well-curated curriculum,nrelevant examples, and thought-provoking case studies. Collectively, thesenelevated my foundational understanding of cybersecurity.n

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nCC Opened Up a Career Pathn

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nOnce I was a CC, the job market became more receptive. I was welcomed into ancybersecurity company with open arms, and my responsibilities there weren’tnlimited to just mitigating threats: they expanded into the realms of risknassessment and auditing, ensuring a moderate temperature of security andncompliance for our clients. In tandem with these new roles, my compensationnexperienced a modest uptick, reflecting the newfound value the CCncertification brought to my profile.n

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nLooking forward, I envisage a harmonious integration of my army expertisenwith the vast expanse of cybersecurity. There’s also temptation to delvendeeper, perhaps seeking additional certifications.n

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nIn retrospect, my transition from the Army’s structured world to the dynamicnrealm of cybersecurity was an evolution rather than a revolution. The CCncertification served as a bridge in this journey, and I’m filled withnenthusiasm for what lies ahead.n

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