My fascination with technology dates back to the early ’80s when computers were still a nascent force, reshaping the world. While most kids of my generation were enamored with video games, I was also captivated by the limitless possibilities that these machines represented. The era of Matthew Broderick’s “War Games” and the movie “Explorers” had us all wondering about the potential of these new gadgets. Today, as I reflect on how technology has transformed our lives, with the small phones we hold in our hands now more powerful than the massive machines we used to call computers, it’s clear my youthful curiosity was well placed.
My journey into investment banking was somewhat coincidental. My first job was in a proprietary trading house right at the infancy of electronic trading. The rapid evolution and innovation in this field fascinated me and sparked a deep love for technology. It propelled me from the world of investment banking, where I served global giants like JPMorgan, HSBC and Standard Chartered, across financial hubs in London, Hong Kong, Manila and Kuala Lumpur. In the financial sphere, my roles ranged from team management to handling complex derivative products like futures and options, FX, interest rate swaps, and non-deliverable forwards, ensuring secure and compliant transactions.
While my journey of 20 years in banking has been fulfilling, my inquisitive nature gradually pulled me back toward technology, and this new and evolving realm of tech called “cybersecurity.” I was driven by a profound passion for technology, a commitment to continuous learning, and an unwavering dedication to protecting the digital landscape. I went from being a derivatives expert to building and maintaining several computers at home, as well as creating and securing home networks, all motivated by a deep fascination for technology.
Cybersecurity as a Calling
My passion for cybersecurity runs deep. It’s rooted in my commitment to protecting my loved ones. I’ve seen individuals, including my own mother, and my two daughters, whose lives are increasingly online due to school and the nature of the world we now live in, facing potential cyberthreats. Witnessing regular people falling victim to cyberattacks fueled my desire to make a meaningful difference. I felt a profound responsibility to protect people from malicious exploitation and secure their digital lives.
Cybersecurity is not merely a profession—it’s a calling. The fulfilment it brings, from safeguarding home networks to comprehending digital threats and sharing knowledge, is immeasurable. It’s a personal mission, an ever-evolving journey that fuels my determination to learn, adapt and find innovative solutions to the ever-growing challenges in the field.
ISACA and the ITCA Certification
My quest for a successful transition into cybersecurity led me to explore various training opportunities. Finding the right program was crucial—I needed a comprehensive curriculum that would not only provide in-depth knowledge but also hands-on experience, allowing me to test the waters and determine if this path was genuinely something I wanted to pursue.
ISACA’s ITCA (Information Technology Certified Associate) certification emerged as a compelling choice. The ITCA certification’s standout feature was its flexibility, offering individual module payments and a unique combination of theoretical instruction and practical hands-on labs in each course.
My journey through the ITCA certification was not without challenges. As someone who hadn’t been in a classroom for years, self-doubt was a constant companion. The first module took nearly a year to complete, leading me to question my decision to make a shift in my career. Balancing studies with family responsibilities and work was a demanding feat.
That year was transformational for me. Passing the initial examination reassured me that this was a path I could tread. Despite my age, I could still learn. It was this moment that encouraged me to accelerate the completion of the remaining modules, knowing that I had the capability to overcome these challenges. Each module I conquered represented a triumph, and I proudly displayed these achievements by updating my badges on LinkedIn. This simple act had a profound effect, attracting the attention of other professionals in the field and providing a foundation for building a network within the cybersecurity community.
My Study Method
My approach to studying was methodical, involving a lot of personal sacrifice. Firstly, I would read through the entire course to gain a foundational understanding. Then, I’d engage with the hands-on labs included in the online course, making detailed notes to reinforce my comprehension. Additionally, I utilized extra labs, initially watching the explanatory video and subsequently repeating them until I became proficient. Following this, I would revisit the course materials, combining them with my lab experiences and making necessary notes and abbreviations. Throughout this process, I relied heavily on Microsoft OneNote, ensuring it was regularly backed up both on my system and on OneDrive. This method enabled me to confidently prepare for each exam, mastering both theoretical and practical aspects of the material.
Overcoming the Experience Conundrum
Now that I have achieved my certification, I am more determined than ever to embark on a new chapter in my career, where I can apply my skills and knowledge in the dynamic field of cybersecurity. My continuous pursuit of excellence and passion for technology drive me to explore roles across various sectors and levels. However, I find myself in a unique situation—my extensive background in banking, while an asset, occasionally makes me appear overqualified for entry-level positions. Simultaneously, many positions in cybersecurity require prior experience, presenting a challenging conundrum.
I share this part of my journey with enthusiasm, not as a set of roadblocks but as a testament to the potential of individuals like me, who are transitioning into a new career with both a deep passion for cybersecurity and valuable prior experience in the finance sector. My story is one I eagerly share in the hope of inspiring others in similar positions, individuals who are also yearning for an opportunity to showcase their skills and dedication in the cybersecurity domain.
Please feel free to contact me; I am always eager to assist and provide guidance to those considering the ITCA certification. As I am fully committed to launching my career in cybersecurity, I extend my hand to those who seek enthusiastic and experienced professionals, ready to contribute to the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.
Author’s note: I am a self-motivated and results-driven professional with over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. My extensive background in operational management and process improvement has equipped me with a unique skill set. I am passionate about technology, and I am keen to transition my career towards cybersecurity and the wider technology industry. My strong commitment to process optimization, data accuracy and continuous learning sets me apart. I am ready to embrace new challenges in the technology sector and contribute my skills to support organizations in managing cyber risks.