#19 Beating the Odds in Cybersecurity: What It Really Takes ft. James Scott

The Hacker's Cache

Kyser Clark interviews James Scott, a cybersecurity professional with a diverse background in the military and digital forensics. They discuss James's journey into penetration testing, the challenges he faced in landing his first role, and the importance of networking and creating personal tools. The conversation also covers the significance of programming skills in cybersecurity, the value of digital forensics knowledge, and the impact of volunteering at conferences. James shares insights on pursuing a PhD in cybersecurity, focusing on weaponizing forensics and compliance training. The episode concludes with advice on persistence and standing out in a competitive field.
Connect with James Scott on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james011616/
Takeaways

• Networking is crucial for career growth in cybersecurity.
• Persistence is key; never give up on your goals.
• Creating your own tools can set you apart from others.
• Digital forensics knowledge enhances penetration testing skills.
• Programming becomes essential as you advance in your career.
• Volunteering at conferences can lead to valuable connections.
• Federal resumes require more detail than private sector ones.
• Stand out from the competition with unique qualifications.
• Pursuing a PhD can help you contribute to the field significantly.

Connect
---------------------------------------------------
https://www.KyserClark.com
https://www.KyserClark.com/Newsletter
https://youtube.com/KyserClark
https://www.linkedin.com/in/KyserClark
https://www.twitter.com/KyserClark
https://www.instagram/KyserClark
https://facebook.com/CyberKyser
https://twitch.tv/KyserClark_Cybersecurity
https://www.tiktok.com/@kyserclark
https://discord.gg/ZPQYdBV9YY
Music by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio
Attention Listeners: This content is strictly for educational purposes, emphasizing ETHICAL and LEGAL hacking only. I do not, and will NEVER, condone the act of illegally hacking into computer systems and networks for any reason. My goal is to foster cybersecurity awareness and responsible digital behavior. Please behave responsibly and adhere to legal and ethical standards in your use of this information.
Opinions are my own and may not represent the positions of my employer.

Chapters

1. Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Most Challenging Aspect of Landing First Pentest Job (00:03:34)

3. Federal vs. Private Sector Resumes (00:05:59)

4. Rapid Fire Questions (00:09:12)

5. Creating Your Own Hacker Tools (00:11:01)

6. Digital Forensics for Pentesters (00:15:09)

7. Volunteering at Security Conferences (00:17:25)

8. DEF CON for Beginners (00:22:34)

9. Weaponizing Digital Forensics (00:25:43)

10. Why Go for a PhD in Cybersecurity? (00:28:18)

11. Final Advice and Hot Takes (00:32:20)