Organised by the University of Nottingham, the Step into Cyber event at Derby College brought together expert speakers, industry professionals and leading organisations to help students understand the growing importance of cyber security and explore potential future careers in IT and computer science.
Connecting students with IT and digital career opportunities
Throughout the day, students attended talks, panel discussions and interactive activities covering a wide range of topics including why cyber security matters, what it is like to work in the industry, the skills employers are looking for, and the different educational pathways into cyber careers.
Students also had the opportunity to meet industry experts and explore exhibition stands, learning directly from organisations at the forefront of cyber security.
Exhibitors included 2T Security, the Chartered Institute of Information Security, Derbyshire Constabulary, the Cyber Resilience Centre for the East Midlands, FSAS Technologies, ISC2, Sophos, The Cyber Scheme, the UK Cyber Security Council and the University of Nottingham, all of whom shared insights into the sector and the wide variety of career routes available.
Expert insights from cyber security leaders
The event was led by Professor Steven Furnell, Professor of Cyber Security in the School of Computer Science at the University of Nottingham.
Professor Furnell said:
“Cyber security affects every part of modern life and the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow rapidly.
“Events like Step Into Cyber are designed to give young people a clearer understanding of the many different career opportunities available, from highly technical roles such as security operations and penetration testing to broader roles involving policy, risk management and business protection.”
Students also heard about the wide range of careers available within cyber security, including roles in ethical hacking, cyber investigation, digital forensics, cyber defence, threat analysis, software security, security operations, cyber risk management and cyber security consultancy.
Industry support for the next generation of digital professionals
Aaron Denton, DCG’s Vice Principal for Student Experience and Inclusion, commented:
“A clear career path can be life changing for young people. When students are able to see the opportunities ahead of them and understand how their skills connect to real careers, it gives them confidence, direction and motivation.
“Events like this help bring those possibilities to life. A huge thank you to the University of Nottingham and the whole team at DCG for pulling everything together and creating such a valuable experience for the students.”
Student voices: discovering future IT and cyber careers
For many students, the event provided a valuable opportunity to explore potential career paths and speak directly with professionals already working in the industry.
Harry Ganidagli, who is studying A-levels in Computer Science, Mathematics and Physics, is also completing an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) exploring nuclear energy and its limitations.
Harry said:
“I’m really interested in going into cyber security as a career. Events like this are really useful because you get to hear from people already working in the industry and understand the different routes you can take.
“It also helps you see how the subjects we’re studying now can lead to real careers in the future.”
Bavel Ali, a first-year student studying A-levels in Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics, attended the event to explore his future options.
He said:
“I’m interested in potentially studying mechanical engineering at university, but it’s great to learn about cyber security as well.
“Technology is constantly changing, so knowing areas like cyber security could be really important for future careers.”
Another student inspired by the event was Rebecca Jackson, who is studying A-levels in Computer Science, Mathematics and Criminology and is considering studying Criminology or Cyber Security at university, with a particular interest in digital forensics.
Rebecca said:
“I’m really interested in digital forensics and how cyber security links with investigating crime.
“Events like this are really helpful because you get to hear from people working in the industry and understand how the skills we are learning now could lead to careers in cyber security or criminal investigation.”
Industry partners also emphasised the importance of helping young people understand cyber security at an early stage.
Phil Viles from The Cyber Resilience Centre for the East Midlands said:
“Cyber security is becoming increasingly important for organisations of all sizes, and there is a real need for the next generation of skilled professionals.
“Events like this give students a fantastic opportunity to learn about the challenges businesses face and the wide range of careers available within the cyber sector.”
Hands-on learning through cyber security activities
The event also featured an interactive Cyber Defence Dice challenge, a cyber security awareness game designed by the University of Nottingham, followed by a prize draw.
The activity gave students a hands-on opportunity to explore how different cyber attacks can be defended against and to test their knowledge of cyber threats and security strategies.
Preparing young people for a growing cyber security sector
With cyber security continuing to grow as one of the fastest-expanding areas within the technology sector, events like Step Into Cyber help ensure young people are equipped with the knowledge, inspiration and connections needed to pursue future careers in IT, digital careers and cyber security.
IT, Digital and Computer Science courses at Derby College
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