SA Power Networks Initiates First Cyber Security ‘Kickstart’ Program
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Quick Overview
- SA Power Networks has initiated a two-year Cyber Security Kickstart initiative aimed at individuals lacking prior cybersecurity experience.
- This program seeks to tackle the escalating cyber skills shortage in South Australia and nationwide.
- Participants will engage three days a week with the cybersecurity team and utilize two days for structured education with the Australian Computer Society.
- The initial recruitment will include four candidates; two starting in July 2024 and the other two in early 2026.
- This initiative is part of SA Power Networks’ larger strategy to improve IT resilience and guarantee dependable energy distribution.
- The organization plans to enroll up to eight participants each year in the future.
Tackling the Cyber Security Skills Deficit in Australia
As the cyber threat landscape evolves, the requirement for proficient cyber security experts in Australia is increasing swiftly. SA Power Networks, the foremost electricity distributor in South Australia, has taken action to confront this issue by launching its first Cyber Security Kickstart program. This initiative is targeted at individuals with no previous experience in cyber security, offering transformative career prospects while enhancing the state’s cyber resilience.
AustCyber’s 2023 report indicates that Australia will require an extra 30,000 cyber security professionals by 2026 to satisfy demand. This program by SA Power Networks is a timely solution to this urgent challenge.
What the Kickstart Program Provides
Hands-On Experience Over Two Years
The Cyber Security Kickstart is a comprehensive two-year initiative where participants will spend three days a week integrated with SA Power Networks’ cybersecurity team, acquiring experience in various domains such as advisory, security operations, and digital identity management. The remaining two days focus on formal training delivered by the Australian Computer Society (ACS).
Customized Learning with the Australian Computer Society
SA Power Networks has collaborated with the ACS to ensure participants receive superior, tailored training that corresponds with the organization’s internal team structure. ACS is renowned for providing nationally recognized courses and certifications, equipping participants with a solid foundation for a durable career in cyber security.
Eligibility Criteria
The program welcomes applications from non-IT graduates and individuals seeking to switch their careers to cyber security. This includes those from varied professional backgrounds who may not have previously had opportunities in technology-related education or positions. It’s crafted to be inclusive, helping to expand the talent pool in Australia’s cyber sector.
First Intake and Future Directions
The initial cohort will consist of four candidates—two starting in July 2024 and another two in early 2026. In the future, SA Power Networks intends to onboard up to eight participants each year, expanding the initiative in response to internal needs as well as industry demands.
Aligning with South Australia’s Energy Future
The Kickstart initiative aligns with SA Power Networks’ broader technology and resilience strategy. Nathan Morelli, Head of Cyber Security and IT Resilience, emphasized that maintaining a secure and reliable electricity supply necessitates investment in skilled personnel. By nurturing the cyber defenders of tomorrow today, the company is reinforcing its own capabilities while aiding in the creation of a safer digital environment for South Australia.
“We perceived this as a chance to leverage our brand and reputation to foster the growth of cyber security talent in South Australia, while also affording our team the chance to mentor and cultivate talent,” Morelli stated. This community-driven approach could serve as a model for other Australian infrastructure entities aiming to bridge the cyber skills gap.
Conclusion
SA Power Networks’ Cyber Security Kickstart program represents a proactive and well-timed investment in the future of Australia’s digital resilience. By providing a practical and fully-supported pathway into cyber security for individuals from non-technical backgrounds, this initiative not only strengthens internal capacity but also enhances the overall ecosystem of skilled cyber professionals in South Australia. With strategic educational partnerships and a long-term vision, this program establishes a robust framework for workforce development in critical infrastructure sectors.
Q: Who is qualified to apply for the Cyber Security Kickstart program?
A:
The initiative is designed for individuals with no previous cyber security experience, including non-IT graduates and professionals aiming to transition into the technology field.
Q: What does the training entail?
A:
Participants dedicate three days a week to hands-on work with SA Power Networks’ cybersecurity team and two days to a structured educational program offered by the Australian Computer Society.
Q: What is the duration of the program?
A:
The initiative spans two years, providing sufficient time for participants to cultivate both technical abilities and practical experience.
Q: How many individuals will be chosen?
A:
The first intake will consist of four participants—two starting in mid-2024 and another two in early 2026. The organization anticipates expanding this number to as many as eight participants each year.
Q: What roles will participants work in during the program?
A:
Participants will acquire experience in cyber advisory, security operations, and digital identity management within SA Power Networks.
Q: Why did SA Power Networks select the Australian Computer Society as a collaborator?
A:
The ACS was chosen for its capacity to tailor training to the specific needs of SA Power Networks and its reputation for delivering high-quality education in the fields of cyber security and IT.
Q: What impact is this program expected to have on South Australia?
A:
The initiative seeks to expand the local cyber security talent pool, contribute to a more secure infrastructure, and create valuable career opportunities for residents of South Australia.
Q: Where can I find more updates on the program?
A:
For ongoing updates, please visit the official TechBest website at techbest.com.au.