As some of the most innovative and dedicated people in Alberta's Information Security, ISC2 Alberta members represent the current and future leaders of our businesses and local communities.
We're proud to take this opportunity to highlight our members and the differences they are making in their professions. Explore their success stories below.
Cracking the Code: A Candid Conversation with a Cybersecurity Guru
This month in our member spotlight, we feature Prashant, we were able to have a casual yet enlightening discussion with this cybersecurity aficionado who's been navigating the digital trenches for years. From quirky origins to the heart of industry challenges, keep reading for a glimpse into his journey, contributions, and hopes for the future.
Q) How did you initially become interested in the field of cybersecurity, and what motivated you to pursue it as a career?
"Cyber Security has always been a passion for me, my fascination with it was ignited during my research days, particularly in Quantum Cryptography. The constant cat-and-mouse game between attackers and defenders intrigued me. The mystery of what adversaries could uncover and how defenders would respond hooked me into making it my career. It's like a never-ending puzzle and it motivates me to keep up with this field every day and every moment of my career."
Q) What roles or positions have you held in the cybersecurity industry?
Q) What role do you currently hold?
"I'm currently a Senior Cyber Security Advisor, leading the charge in helping organizations stay a step ahead in the cybersecurity game."
Q) What notable contributions have you made to the cybersecurity community?
"I have been an avid researcher and public speaker expounding the tenets of cybersecurity to the upcoming generation of cybersecurity experts. I've shared my insights through research papers, shedding light on Quantum Computing's potential. You might spot me on stage at B-Sides Conferences, diving into various cybersecurity topics. I also do double duty as an educator, I've worn the hat of a part-time teacher at local institutions like Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) and Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE), spreading knowledge and staying sharp in the process."
Q) In your opinion, what are the most pressing cybersecurity challenges that organizations and individuals currently face?
"The most pressing cybersecurity challenge that organizations and individuals are currently facing is the pace of advancement and change in the field. We're now in an era where cyber threats aren't just geeky pranks but serious concerns, with nation-state actors lurking in the shadows; constantly probing and looking for ways to harm their enemies and cause damage to human safety. Safeguarding against these threats while keeping up with the pace of change is a top priority."
Q) How do you believe these challenges can be mitigated or addressed effectively?
"While there is no silver bullet answer to this profound question, a solid strategy involves understanding risks and proactive management. Linking cybersecurity with an organization's goals is key. Fusing business insights with Information Risk Management helps in smartly handling risks. Cybersecurity experts should spend time understanding the business they support; staying curious, learning from mentors, and experimenting with innovative approaches to disrupt and reduce the impacts of threat adversaries."
Q) Can you share any long-term goals or aspirations you have as a cybersecurity expert?
"I am a firm believer in servant leadership, so my goal is simple yet profound - to be a catalyst for positive change. By nurturing budding talents and sharing knowledge, I aim to make a difference in the cybersecurity community. It's not about flashy titles, but about leaving a mark that enhances the industry and the world at large."
Would you like to connect with Prashant to learn more about his journey?
http://linkedin.com/in/prashantprofile
Q) Tell us about what inspires and motivates you to pursue a career in InfoSec / Cybersecurity?
"This is a highly in-demand career to pursue and needed in almost every facet of IT. It is a constantly evolving and essential skill, and I personally enjoy critical thinking and the ability to adapt in this dynamic field. A career in cybersecurity will always be highly in demand and can never be boring. In our digital age, cybersecurity plays a vital role in ensuring online safety, and to defend internet-connected devices from malicious attacks. With the increasing number of users and devices combined with an increased deluge of data, the need for online security is growing at a rapid pace. Today’s criminals are well educated, highly skilled and sophisticated, and the chance of cyber-attacks is at its peak. Cyber security skills are instrumental in preventing attacks that aim to disrupt our systems. Security is an essential ingredient in every information system and should be baked in, rather than bolted on when designing and building software or hardware both from a functional and technical perspective. These skills provide me with a well-rounded knowledge of all aspects of Architecture."
Q) Talk about your history in the IT / InfoSec / Cybersecurity world.
"I have over 22 years IT experience in the private and public sector across North America working with complex, highly integrated ERP systems for most of my career. Currently, I am a Lead Architect at the University of Calgary with their Finance & Supply Chain ERP application. My roles have required providing high level technical expertise and leadership in the development, architecture, and sustainment of very large and advanced critical business systems. I have also been engaged as an instructor with the University of Calgary’s Continuing Education to develop materials and teach new cyber security courses that will be launched in early 2023. I have held the Director Membership position at (ISC)² Alberta since June ’22."
Q) What brought you to join (ISC)² Alberta and do you currently hold any (ISC)² certifications?
"The (ISC)² Alberta Chapter has provided me with the wonderful opportunity to learn, share and engage with recognized leaders in the security community. (ISC)² is arguably the most globally recognized and respected security family of IT security professionals. I have the honor to serve as a board member with (ISC)² Alberta and help with engagement. I hold the CISSP, PMP and PSM professional certifications. I strongly recommend anyone interested in cyber security to join this Chapter. The opportunities to network, mentor and grow your skills are significant."
Q) What do you see as the toughest challenges facing society, business, and your community when it comes to InfoSec and Cybersecurity?
There is a huge workforce shortage and not enough people with cyber security skills to fill open jobs. The gap is increasing fast. Gaining skills and certifications can be expensive and time consuming, and more organizations should plan to train their staff. Organizations need to invest in existing personnel. Protecting systems can no longer be a reactive tactic. We need to understand that having InfoSec skills is needed in all aspects of IT today, and across all phases. While there is always a need to compete on the market for some positions, organizations should be open to cross training and providing more opportunities for growth internally. Organizations need to be more agile and evolve unconventional career paths, promote cross training and leverage untapped sources of cybersecurity talent.
Would you like to connect with Amit to learn more about his journey?
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amit-9/
