Gerald Auger PhD: Transform Your Cybersecurity Career with Community

Summary

In this episode of the Phillip Wylie Show, host Phillip Wylie speaks with Gerald Auger from Simply Cyber about his journey in cybersecurity, the importance of community building, and the role of personal branding in career advancement. They discuss Gerry's transition from software engineering to Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), the impact of AI in GRC, and the significance of engaging with the community through content creation. Gerry shares insights on training, certifications, and the value of networking, emphasizing that anyone can contribute to the community regardless of their experience level.

Takeaways

• Simply Cyber launched in December 2019 to help others.

• Gerry's journey into cybersecurity began with a failed audit.

• GRC is becoming more recognized and accepted in the industry.

• AI can enhance GRC processes and training.

• Personal branding is crucial for career advancement in cybersecurity.

• Engaging with the community can lead to unexpected opportunities.

• Consistency in content creation builds a personal brand.

• Networking is about building genuine relationships, not just seeking jobs.

• Everyone can contribute to the community, regardless of experience.

• Celebrating small wins in personal branding is important.

Sound Bites

"AI is super useful."

"Just hit record. Just start."

"You never know who's watching."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Simply Cyber and Community Building

02:50 Gerry's Hacker Origin Story

07:29 Transitioning from Technical Background to GRC

13:04 Training and Career Path in GRC

18:14 Certifications and Their Importance in GRC

20:01 Leveraging AI in GRC Practices

25:50 Navigating Cybersecurity Hype and AI's Role

27:14 The Power of Personal Branding

30:50 Building a Personal Brand Through Content Creation

32:41 Transforming Job Opportunities Through Networking

39:54 The Importance of Community Engagement

45:50 Creating Value in Cybersecurity Education

Resources

https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldauger/

https://www.simplycyber.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-cyber/

https://academy.simplycyber.io/courses

https://www.youtube.com/c/GeraldAuger