Eric Teichmiller: Exploring Cybersecurity Careers

Summary

In this episode of the Phillip Wylie Show, Phillip is joined by Eric Teichmiller, a technical account manager at Horizon 3. Eric shares his background in cybersecurity and his journey from IT to risk and compliance to offensive security. He explains his role as a technical account manager and how his defensive background helps him understand and support customers. Eric also discusses the benefits of certifications, offers advice for getting into cybersecurity, and shares his study tips and strategies for avoiding burnout.

Takeaways

• Eric Teichmiller shares his background in cybersecurity and his journey from IT to risk and compliance to offensive security.

• As a technical account manager, Eric supports customers and acts as a subject matter expert for autonomous pen testing.

• Certifications can be beneficial in the cybersecurity field, but work experience and the ability to connect with interviewers are also important.

• Eric advises aspiring cybersecurity professionals to never stop learning, focus on building experience, and apply intentionally for positions.

• To avoid burnout while studying, eliminate distractions, find a learning method that works for you, and have hobbies outside of your day job.

• Eric's goal at Horizon3 is to explore positions that allow him to take a big picture approach and continue problem-solving.

Sound Bites

"I'm really enjoying cybersecurity as a whole."

"I kind of have that customer perspective."

"Everything that they were geeking out on not only works, but it works well."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:29 The Role of a Technical Account Manager

06:36 Transitioning from Defensive to Offensive Security

08:41 The Fascination with Autonomous Pen Testing

12:14 The Value of Certifications and Continuous Learning

14:13 Advice for Job Seekers in Cybersecurity

15:55 Navigating Job Descriptions and Requirements

20:12 Avoiding Burnout in Cybersecurity

24:07 Goals and Future Plans at Horizon 3

25:59 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Resources

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-teichmiller-82296295/

https://x.com/ericteichmiller