Bob King’s Journey with CyberWorks
Robert “Bob” King is a technical project manager for Northrop Grumman in Tampa, Florida. He currently develops cyber and space capabilities supporting multiple customers in the Department of Defense. Before this role, he worked on delivering data and intelligence solutions for Special Operations Command (SOCOM) at MacDill Air Force Base.
King’s transition from military service to the private sector led him to Cyber Florida’s CyberWorks training program. After graduating from Florida Southern College and commissioning as an officer in the U. S. Army, he contacted his professional network for guidance on breaking into the cybersecurity industry.
“Cyber Florida stood out immediately as a perfect opportunity to combine my previous experience with relevant industry training to launch a new career in cybersecurity,” King said.
King enrolled in the New Skills for a New Fight 12-week program, which provided hands-on experience in cybersecurity fundamentals and real-world applications. The curriculum covered crucial topics such as the OSI model, the cyber kill chain, malware analysis using virtual machines, and advanced persistent threat (APT) identification.
“The program provides practical training and familiarization with cybersecurity concepts and tools essential to succeeding in today’s job market,” King noted. “From concepts including the OSI model and cyber kill chain to lab exercises, malware analysis utilizing virtual machines, and advanced persistent threat (APT) identification, the curriculum delivers a solid foundation and engaging experience.”
The knowledge gained from the program has been instrumental in King’s role as a technical project manager. He regularly uses the concepts learned to plan projects, decompose requirements, and conduct security impact analyses.
“I apply the knowledge gained throughout the program regularly when planning projects and decomposing requirements to incorporate security impact analysis as well as network and security operations considerations,” he explained.
For those considering CyberWorks, King offers simple advice: ask questions.
“The staff is engaging, experienced, and dedicated to ensuring your success throughout the course and your career,” he emphasized. “The team does a phenomenal job at identifying and incorporating industry trends, new technologies, and current events with each new class to maximize student success.”
CyberWorks served as the catalyst for King’s cybersecurity career, and he highly recommends it to anyone looking to transition into the field.
“The program was the catalyst for my career in cybersecurity,” he said. The program attracts a diverse range of students from various industries, backgrounds, and experience levels, creating a collaborative and enriching learning environment.
Additionally, King encourages professionals to network and participate in industry organizations such as ISC2 and AFCEA.
“I strongly recommend Cyber Florida to anyone looking to make a career pivot into cybersecurity,” he added. “Each class has a diverse student body from multiple industries, ages, and backgrounds. I also encourage networking and participating in professional organizations like ISC2 and AFCEA.”
Cyber Florida’s CyberWorks program is more than just a training course—it’s a launchpad for a successful career in cybersecurity. This program offers a valuable path forward for those looking to break into the industry, gain practical skills, and make meaningful connections.
Are you considering a career change? We can help!
Learn more about the CyberWorks program.