Breaking into cybersecurity doesn’t have to follow the same old script—get an IT degree, work helpdesk, and wait your turn. In today’s fast-moving landscape, certifications can offer an alternative route—one that lets you dare to disrupt the traditional pathway and take control of your own journey.

This session is designed for entry-to-mid-level professionals who are ready to carve out a future in cybersecurity, whether you’re pivoting from another career or aiming to level up your current role. We’ll cut through the noise of endless certification options and focus on how to strategically choose credentials that match your goals, interests, and experience.

We’ll break down popular certifications into meaningful categories—entry-level (like CompTIA Security+), mid-career (such as CySA+ or CEH), and aspirational (like CISSP or CISM). You’ll learn how to identify what’s right for you, based on where you are now and where you want to go next.

You'll also get practical advice on how to prep for certifications, find reliable study resources, and balance learning with life and work. Whether you're transitioning from a non-tech background or want to skip the helpdesk and go straight into security, this session will empower you with the tools and confidence to chart your own path in cybersecurity.