Cyber Job Hacks | How to Start Your Cyber Security Career

Cisco announced the new version of the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) last week. The first major release in six years. They promise that it is more than just another update and that it is a complete revamp of this entry-level exam. The exam is to go beyond memorization and test candidates ability to apply their knowledge in more scenario-based questions. Personally, I am glad to see this...

AI is transforming networking in two completely different ways. The first is Networking for AI — building the ultra-high-performance infrastructure required to support GPU clusters, AI training environments, and massive AI data centers. The second is AI for Networking — using artificial intelligence, telemetry, automation, and AIOps platforms to operate networks more intelligently and efficiently....

Many network engineers work hard—earning certifications, and learning new technologies—yet still feel like they’re not making meaningful progress. One of the biggest reasons is their certification path does not match their career path. In this episode, I share two important lessons I learned when deciding which certifications to pursue; pursue certifications that match your target role and pursue...

Many network engineers work hard—earning certifications, learning new technologies, and gaining experience—yet still feel like they’re not making meaningful progress. One of the biggest reasons is career drift. In this episode, we break down what career drift looks like in network engineering, why it happens, and how to avoid it by choosing a clear direction. You’ll learn how to think more intenti...

Many network engineers say they want to become a network architect—but far fewer are clear on what that actually requires. In this episode, we define what “advanced network engineering roles” really look like and break down the shift from implementation-focused work to design and decision-making. If you’ve been gaining experience but aren’t sure what separates mid-level engineers from those moving...

Many network engineers are working hard, earning certifications, and gaining experience—yet progress toward advanced roles often feels slower than expected. In this episode, we break down why that happens and what actually drives career growth in network engineering. You’ll learn the difference between effort and strategy, why some engineers plateau, and how to start approaching your career with m...

In this in-depth interview, Marc Colburn shares his rapid rise to a Senior Network Engineer, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, hands-on experience, and strategic learning. Discover practical tips for aspiring engineers to accelerate their careers and navigate industry shifts effectively. In this episode, we discuss: Career progression in networking Importance of core networking knowledge Im...

So what is a design engineer? Isn’t knowing the technology enough? In this episode I explain what it takes to become a good design engineer and the approach we follow. If you are looking to move up to the next level, you want to listen to this episode. Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a free career st...

To become a solid network engineer or what I refer to as a next-level engineer, you need to have expert knowledge in the Three Pillars of Network Engineering - Deep Technical Knowledge, Design Best Practices, and Technology Selection Rationale.  In this episode, we explore what it means to have deep technical knowledge and how to develop it. This is the heart of a next-level engineer and the found...

I have been working as a network engineer/architect for over 30-years. More and more I am encountering network engineers that are lacking the three critical things that prevent them from becoming a top-level engineer. Three things that enabled me and others to grow to the top of the industry. - Deep Technology Knowledge - Best Design Practices - Reasons to Implement the Technology In this episode,...

Are you getting the interviews but not the job? Are you tired of the rejections? Are you becoming frustrated and ready to quit? Don't do it. If you are determined to launch a career in the IT industry, you have to be persistent and smart about your approach. In this episode, I share how to continue to become the strongest entry-level candidate and how to use your past interviews to prepare for the...

Preparing for a certification exam? Not sure if you are ready? Don't want to waste the exam fee on a failed attempt?  In this episode, I share a couple of ways to measure your preparedness to pass the certification exam. It is the method that I have my students use with great success. If you want to go into the exam confident, listen to this episode. Are you interested in becoming one of Dr. Jeff'...

Are you looking to start a career as a network engineer? Want to ensure that you are the strongest entry-level candidate? With companies now using skill-based hiring, certifications will not do it alone. In this episode, I explain how to build the skills required to ace the technical interview and land the job. If you want to stand above the other candidates, you will want to listen to this episod...

Are you interested in preparing for an IT certification exam? Are you not sure what to study? In this episode I share how I use the exam blueprint to develop a study plan. You will learn how to identify the exam topic, the study resources, and how to block time to properly prepare. This will get you organized and help structure your exam preparation. It is something that I and many of my students...

Are you wanting to launch an IT career in 2025? Are you not sure where to start? In this episode I provide my personal career roadmap if I was starting to pursue a career as a network engineer or a network engineer today. Based upon my 30 years of experience in the industry, I share a 3-track study program that will provide the foundational knowledge in networking, cyber security, and automation t...

Are you wanting to launch an IT career in 2025? Are you not sure where to start? Is the news of layoffs from the large companies scaring you off?  IT careers are still in demand. However, like any career field, you have to possess the skills employers are seeking. In this episode I share some top IT career trends for 2025. Are you interested in becoming one of Dr. Jeff's students? There are 3 slot...

What is a Cloud First Strategy? How does it impact how we design and secure networks? In this episode, Dr. Jeff shares what it means to have a cloud first strategy and the disruptive change it has had on how networks are designed and secured. The old design models are out and a new approach must be adopted if you want to be a successful engineer in this industry. Are you interested in becoming one...

Zero Trust. What is it? Why do you need to know it? Zero Trust is the new network security framework. The days of perimeter security are over. Knowing how to implement Zero trust is qucikly becoming an essential skill for every cyber professional. In this episode, Dr. Jeff explains the Zero Trust Network Architecture and how you can begin learning it. Are you interested in becoming one of Dr. Jeff...

The days of command line are behind us. Learning how to automate is an essential skill for anyone working in the cyber industry. Whether you are just starting out or mid career, you need to develop an automation mindset. The two foundational skills are Linux and Python. In this episode, Dr. Jeff discusses the reason for automation and why you need to learn Linux and Python. He will explain how eas...

If you want to become a stronger engineer, you need a lab. A lab is where you put all you learned to the test. It deepens your understanding of the technology. And to be honest, it is the fun part. Implementing technology is the reason we get into this industry.  In this episode, Dr. Jeff explains what a lab is and why it is critical to your cyber career.  Are you interested in becoming one of Dr....

Reading books and watching videos is not enough to grow your cyber career. You need access to a lab where you can practice what you learned. In this episode, Jeff shares how he built a home lab using a mini-PC and free software. If you are looking to build a lab and don’t want to spend a lot of money, you will want to listen to this episode.   Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Team Caveo...

If you want to successfully navigate a career in the cyber industry, you need a good guide. In this episode, Dr. Jeff talks about the importance of having a mentor and how they can help you build the cyber career you desire: How to find a mentor Benefits of a mentor Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Team Caveo Want to discuss if a cyber career is right for you? Want to know how best to ge...

Want to become a good engineer? Even a great engineer? Dr. Jeff share how you can quickly develop expertise in your cyber profession. Following his Get Good Fast methodology, this can be done in months rather than years. How he got good fast Examples of how his students got good fast How you can get good fast Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Team Caveo Want to discuss if a cyber career i...

We have been talking about migrating to IPv6 for years. However, with the rapid growth of mobile devices and cloud adoption, this can no longer be put off. Many network engineers and security practitioners have not focused their attention on developing the skills to properly implement and secure IPv6 creating a shortage of expertise. In this episode Dr. Jeff discusses: Why IPv6 migration is happen...

You may have heard the terms DevOps, GitHub, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), and CI/CD Pipeline.  In this episode Dr. Jeff Colburn discusses Security Development Operations (SecDevOps). What is Infrastructure as Code and it Benefits How organizations are automating their network and security The increasing demand of automation skill sets Routine security tasks that are being automated What are the b...