Step into Cyber: Empowering the Future Guardians of Digital Frontiers

In an era where digital innovation permeates every aspect of our lives, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. With the digital landscape continuously evolving, the recent Step into Cyber event, hosted at The Drill (owned by Lincoln College), served as a proactive step towards nurturing the next generation of cyber professionals. Through engaging talks, panel discussions, and firsthand insights from industry professionals, attendees gained a deeper understanding of the role they can play in safeguarding our digital future. 

Step into Cyber illuminated the pathways to cyber security careers for post-16 students, opening the realm of cyber security and emphasising its relevance to everyone in society. From understanding the basics of cyber hygiene to safeguarding intellectual property and designs, attendees delved into the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity. 

Mark Locking, Principal and CEO at the Lincoln College Group, said "As we step into the ever-evolving digital landscape, the importance of Cyber Security becomes increasingly evident.  

“Today's event not only showcases the vitality of safeguarding our digital assets but also ignites the passion of eager students towards shaping the future of Cyber Security. With exhibitors from across the nation gathering at our finishing school, The Drill, we underscore the critical role Cyber Security plays in our interconnected world while also highlighting the plethora of exciting career opportunities awaiting those willing to embark on this transformative journey.” 

Steven Furnell, Professor of Cyber Security at the University of Nottingham, said: “Step into Cyber is a series of events with the core aim of raising awareness and bridging the gap in cybersecurity.   

“According to ISC2, globally there is a shortage of millions of cyber professionals, whilst in the UK, the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology's annual labour market study underscores the urgent need for more cybersecurity experts.  

"Through our events, we inspire post-16 students in the East Midlands region to explore diverse career opportunities, from technical roles like security operations and penetration testing to understanding cybersecurity's business context.” 

Showcasing an impressive lineup of speakers and panellists, each offered valuable insights into the world of cyber security. Benjamin Smith, an alumni student at Lincoln College and now a Lead Cyber Security Analyst at KyrptoKloud, shared his journey from student to industry professional, serving as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cyber enthusiasts. 

Guest speakers such as Daljinder Mattu and Shaun Rafferty from the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) shed light on why cyber security is a critical component of modern society. They discussed the various threats posed by cyber breaches, ranging from small-time hackers to state-sponsored attacks, and how the next generation can contribute to making the UK a global leader in technology and innovation. 

Kevin Streeter, representing the Chartered Institute for Information Security (CIISec) and the UK Cyber Security Council (UKCSC), delved into the diverse career pathways available in cyber security. With a significant skills gap in the industry, Streeter outlined various initiatives and programmes aimed at filling this shortage, from CyberFirst programmes targeted at year 12 students to government-funded Cyber EPQs and NCSC-certified degree apprenticeships to help people retrain. 

As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, events like Step into Cyber act as a catalyst to inspire the next generation to have cybersecurity careers. All the exhibitors included the the University of Nottingham, Department for Science, Innovation & Technology, Chartered Institute of Information Security, CompTIA, ISC2 and KryptoKloud. 

Find out more technological and innovative pathways to launch your career at Lincoln College. Register for our upcoming Open Day to discuss your course options, or apply directly to the course of your choice on our website.