One of the missions of the UK Cyber Security Council is to highlight pathways into the profession and raise awareness of the diversity of people who work in the sector.

The UK Cyber Security Council partners with Tech Vets and member organisation Coda Security to highlight the presence of veterans, serving individuals, and their families in the cyber security profession. We'll be hearing about how their experiences helped them to change careers and thrive.

We will also receive an update from the Director of Professional Standards Annmarie, about how the featured specialisms will align with the Council's professional titles.

Speakers:

Raymond Thompson

"Before my role as a Security Analyst, I worked at Sellafield in Egremont, Cumbria, as a Network Engineer from October 2020 to October 2022. During this time, I gained valuable experience in configuring network equipment, designing and updating firewalls and networks, and troubleshooting system malfunctions. This role provided me with a strong technical foundation and a deeper understanding of cyber security.

Prior to my time at Sellafield, I had the privilege of serving in the Royal Air Force (RAF) for approximately eight years. My journey in the RAF began as a Regiment Gunner, but due to an injury early on, I underwent a 16-month rehabilitation period. It was during this time that the RAF recognized the potential of my Computer Science degree and transferred me to the role of ICT Technician, now known as Cyber Communications Specialist. This transition allowed me to leverage my technical skills in support of the RAF's IT infrastructure. Following my graduation from Cosford, I joined the Tactical Communications Wing (TCW) at RAF Leeming as a versatile Network/Server Administrator/Engineer. I worked on various deployable equipment, including Magpie, Swedish, Redkite, and Deployable LD.

During the challenging times spent at home due to the pandemic, I dedicated myself to continuous learning. In addition to participating in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions and webinars, I completed certifications a couple of which thanks to TechVets, such as SPLK-1001 Splunk Core Certified User, ICS Practitioners Security by Siker, and TCM Practical Network Penetration Tester (PNPT). These experiences opened my eyes to the importance of the defensive side of cyber security, and I realized the value of my knowledge in both offensive and defensive techniques."

Simon Brownhill

"As a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 30 years of experience, I offer expertise in addressing the most challenging security issues. My knowledge includes recognition as a subject matter expert featured in Insider Magazine and The Guardian. I have collaborated with private equity firms and investment companies, providing thorough assessments of potential and current – recent investments.

My bespoke service-oriented strategies are tailored to each client's needs, ensuring maximum efficiency and effectiveness. I emphasise practical, actionable steps to achieve security objectives without sacrificing productivity or innovation. My business-positive approach to managing information risks is relied upon by C-level executives and boards in both the public and private sectors.

My leadership skills, refined during my time with the Royal Navy and years of line management experience, have proven invaluable in cultivating high-performing teams. I excel in fostering collaboration and steering security initiatives to success. Passionate about staff development and mentoring, I empower team members to reach their professional goals and improve their capabilities."

Sara Hilton

Sara joined Chubb Fire and Security as a Cyber Security Analyst in March 23. She was recruited through the TechVets platform as part of a Chubb recruitment drive to establish a new SOC capability in the North West of England. Sara previously worked as a Food & Beverage Assistant at David Lloyd Clubs following a long period of unemployment whilst raising a family with her Husband Andrew.

"After a 15-year career in the Army Air Corps (AAC) I decided to leave. My reasons for leaving were mostly personal - I felt I had achieved a pinnacle in my career with the army and wanted a new challenge. Due to my background in communications and technology I felt a career within the IT industry was going to be the best fit. However, upon my termination date, I realised that the previous 15 years had taken its toll and a break was needed. I spent the next 2 years in France, managing a complex of lakes and woodland for the fishing tourism industry. In December 2019 it dawned on me that I should face reality and come back to the UK, study and find a real job.

I returned from my travels abroad in December 2019 and started studying in Jan 2020, initially starting with free resources and then progressing onto the OSCP course, much too early. As I was finishing my initial studies, the dreaded news, COVID. The country went into lockdown and recruiting stopped overnight. After approximately a year of job rejections I was about ready to throw in the towel and look else where for a career when a chance conversation landed me an interview with CODA security.

This interview, which was initially billed as a quick chat, turned into a job offer. After 2 years with CODA I am now a cyber security consultant with CTM status and I'm about to hopefully achieve my CTL. I have experienced a plethora of tests in all manor environments from simple build reviews of a single system to multiple AD forests and complex cloud solutions."