IT graduate James is a passionate frontline defender

James Hay is an expert in the industry of cybersecurity. Fuelled by the desire to protect organisations he works on the frontline as a silent defender. Nothing gets past him.

When James enrolled in the Bachelor of Information Technology, he was unsure where his degree would take him. He quickly learnt that it would provide a solid foundation for professional success.

Already holding an impressive portfolio of experience and achievements, the only way is up.

In the line of defence

Using the IT knowledge from his CDU degree, James has worked in roles supporting defence services.

James has served Australia by actively mitigating cybersecurity threats. Closer to home, his skills have serviced local institutions like the Batchelor Institute and Darwin International Airport, as well as helping local IT companies grow.

He knows that his degree has helped.

“Without my degree, I don’t know that I would have got a job with Lockheed Martin because they look very fondly upon graduates as they can be sure they have the skills they’re after,” says James.

Continued success

Following a nomination from his superiors within the Australian cybersecurity community, James has earned the OSCP, the most difficult and coveted award for cyber professionals. CDU has also recognised his contributions with an Alumni Awards nomination. 

There’s no stopping him now.

“I’m keen to do further study and the next logical step for me would be to do a Master's degree.” says James.

CDU was a great experience and I gained so much personally.

Advice to take on board

With his career well underway and his future looking bright, James reflects on what advice he would give his younger self.

Take full advantage of all the things that the university has to offer.

"Go to networking events, expos and career fairs," he adds. "Just take the opportunity to make the most of everything because it will help you and will enhance your time at university even more.”

Find an exciting career in IT with certificates, diplomas and degrees at Charles Darwin University. Explore courses.