Cybersecurity Expert Describes Hot Job Market
Matt Barrett, Chief Operating Officer, CyberESI and Founder of US CyberDome, discusses cybersecurity choices, trends with Fellows
During Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October, Matt Barrett spoke with Fellows from the Sandra Lee Heyman Foundation about exciting new trends in cybersecurity, the critical shortage of trained professionals, and his own journey from chemist to security expert. Barrett is Chief Operating Officer of CyberESI, a leading cybersecurity service provider. His experience also includes several stints in federal cybersecurity posts and as co-founder of US CyberDome, a non-partisan, non-profit organization offering cybersecurity services for political parties, elected officials, and candidates.
“Do not fear choosing the wrong major and don’t be hindered or constrained by that. If you need to adapt, adapt – because it’s in the adaptations that some of the most glorious stuff happens”
With a degree from Virginia Tech in chemistry and biochemistry, Barrett shared the personal and practical financial reasons why and how he shifted to cybersecurity. One Fellow asked, “Since you ended up with a complete career change, what kind of advice would you give to a senior deciding their major (and potential career)?” Saying that analytical capabilities and understanding the scientific method are the key to any STEM position, he encouraged the Fellows to keep an open mind about their future careers: “Do not fear choosing the wrong major and don’t be hindered or constrained by that. If you need to adapt, adapt – because it’s in the adaptations that some of the most glorious stuff happens.”
Barrett also cited the benefits of gaining job experience through a cooperative education program – work a semester, go to college for a semester – which allowed him to afford his undergraduate studies.
The Sandra Lee Heyman Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in memory of Sandra Lee Heyman, a long-time mathematics teacher at the elementary, middle school, high school, and community college levels. The 18-month long Fellowship is aimed at promising high school students who have the opportunity to meet with STEM leaders, visit prominent institutions in the Washington, D.C., area, and access peers and mentors to support career exploration in STEM fields. There are multiple ways to support the Fellowship program, and donations to the Foundation are tax deductible.