From aviation to cyber: Q&A with Krey

The demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise as businesses become more reliant on technology and we immerse ourselves in the digital space.

With more people making the switch to cyber, we sat down with Krey Lacerna, graduate of Certificate IV in Cyber Security 22603VIC at VU, to discuss his leap from aviation to cyber.

Why did you decide to study cyber security?

The pandemic had a significant effect on my profession. I was an airline pilot. In March 2020, just as the borders were about to close, I made it back to Australia and realised that the aviation industry was not taking off anytime soon. I decided to pivot my career into a field I was interested in — cyber security.

I noticed the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE program being advertised, with Victoria University being a top choice. I enrolled in the Certificate IV in Cyber Security, starting in February 2021 and completing the course in December 2021. I studied in full time mode.

Why did you choose to study at VU?

I chose to study at VU for two reasons: location and reputation in the industry. I live in western Melbourne, so the short commute to the St Albans campus was ideal. The St Albans campus is also home to VU's new Cyber Security Training Centre, which was built for students to run their own Security Operations Centre. Peers working in the industry recommended VU Polytechnic’s cyber security course for its practical skills and exposure to industry tools.

What do you do now?

I am now a Cyber Security Intern/Trainee for the Australian Academic and Research Network (AARNet).

Would you recommend this course?

I recommend the course for anyone provided you have basic computer literacy and a willingness to learn. This course provides a fulfilling challenge to those wanting to transition careers and explore the world of information technology. The teachers have industry experience and are willing to guide and support your learning journey. The eLearning mode of delivery allowed the teaching staff to react quickly to the dynamic environment of lockdowns and restrictions, with minimal impact to the content delivery.

What did you like best about your study experience at VU?

The course provided hands-on, practical experience with real industry specific software and tools. It also provides certification with Cisco’s Networking Academy, extracurricular activities such as the TAFE Cyber Challenge, and the student-run Capture the Flag challenges.

I particularly enjoyed the final major group project that encompasses all the knowledge and skills developed throughout the course. This six-week subject involves developing and testing your own Cyber Security Operations Centre (SOC). You develop many practical skills in agile project management, implementing security solutions with Amazon Web Services and overall collaborative teamwork. Working in the industry now, it is fantastic to see how the invaluable skills and experience from this subject translate perfectly to my role now working in a SOC.

How did you find our interactive eLearning model (face-to-face and online learning)?

Full time study, with both face-to-face and online learning, requires a significant time commitment as the hours are usually between 9am to 3pm. Lessons were always recorded which was great when you have conflicting schedules, allowing you to catch up in your own time. My teacher was fantastic as she would always be readily available, even after hours, to answer any questions and provide feedback on the coursework.

Did you make any industry connections during your time at VU?

Companies such as AARNet invited us to attend seminars and information sessions. They provided valuable insight into what companies are seeking in job-ready graduates for employment.

What was one key highlight of your studies?

A real highlight was taking part in the first-ever TAFE versus TAFE cyber security computer challenge in May 2021. The VU team came first in Victoria and second nationally against 10 other teams. It was a fantastic experience to apply all the practical skills and knowledge we were learning throughout the year against other universities and TAFEs with simulated cyber security challenges. Teamwork, leadership and communication was crucial to succeeding especially with the time restrictions to complete all the challenges. It was definitely a memorable experience and I highly recommend future students to get involved early.

Any final words?

When we were able to attend the classroom for face-to-face learning, it was nice to network and build friendships with our cohort that consisted of a diverse group of mature-age students and secondary school graduates. The cohort's previous industry backgrounds included aged care, social work, finance, logistics, culinary, retail and hospitality. I still keep in regular contact with many of my classmates today.

The Certificate IV in Cyber Security 22603VIC is now offered face-to-face with eLearning or entirely online. The online course utlises enhanced eLearning and fully cloud-based practice labs with no on-campus attendance required. It is facilitated by industry-experienced cyber security professionals and allows accelerated completion. The online course is ideal for students with relevant industry experience or graduates from the Certificate III in Information Technology ICT30120 or similar.